How much does it cost to build a wine cellar in Miami-Dade County?
- greenrefrigeration2
- Aug 11
- 5 min read
Wine Cellars are no longer confined to underground spaces, as modern technology has allowed various options to flourish.
But how much does it cost to install custom wine cellars in South Florida?
The simple answer is that, depending on several factors (such as square footage), the national average cost of building a wine cellar ranges from $5,000 to over $100,000.

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In Miami-Dade County, you’ll often find costs at the higher end of this range.
Especially for larger or custom-designed cellars, due to increased construction, climate control requirements, and higher labor costs compared to other areas, such as Palm Beach County, Broward County, Orlando, or Naples.
Let’s break it down even further with typical cost ranges for different types of wine cellars in Miami-Dade County and South Florida:

Remember, these are averages; luxury, large, or fully custom builds in Miami-Dade County can cost significantly more than $100,000.
Key Factors Influencing Wine Cellar Cost in South Florida:
Type of cellar (walk-in, under-stairs, wall, reach-in, etc.)
Size of Your Wine Cellar
Racking material (wood, metal, custom designs)
Insulation and vapor barrier quality
Door and glass features
Climate control system and humidity controls
Climate control system and humidity controls
Labor and installation
Permitting and building code requirements
Let’s discuss all in detail.
Location, Location, Location – Choosing Your Space
The location is the first factor affecting the cost of installing your dream wine cellar in South Florida or nearby areas.
Consider whether you would like an above-ground or underground wine cellar, as each option has pros and cons.
Above-Ground Wine Cellars: Cost-effective and more accessible to install, these can be integrated as a separate room or a shared space. However, they may require extra insulation to maintain the ideal temperature and humidity.
Underground Wine Cellars: Typically more expensive due to excavation and construction costs, these can benefit from naturally stable temperatures and humidity levels. However, they come with increased complexity in modern wine cellar installations.
Location Comparison:
In Miami-Dade County, above-ground wine cellars are often more common due to property layouts and building codes.
Underground options may be more popular in areas like Orlando or Naples, where land and construction costs can be lower.
In addition, labor and installation costs in Miami-Dade County often make up 30–50% of your total investment, higher than in most other Florida regions due to demand, regulations, and local wage rates.
[Need inspiration? See our guide to the best wine cellar locations in Miami homes.]
Sizing It Up – Determining the Size of Your Wine Cellar
Another important factor that affects the cost of your personalized wine cellar sign in Miami-Dade County (Fisher Island), Coral Gables, or Doral, Florida, is its size.
As the saying goes, the bigger, the more expensive; however, the size of your wine cellar will depend on your needs and goals.
Small Wine Cellars: Providing storage for approximately 100-300 bottles, these cellars typically cost less to build and maintain due to their smaller size.
Medium to Large Wine Cellars: Ranging from 500 to over 1,000 bottles, these cellars allow for more design flexibility and may host additional features such as tasting areas, increasing the overall cost.
Regional Price Note
A small wine cellar in Miami-Dade County may start at $10,000 to $20,000, while large, luxury installations—especially with custom features—can easily exceed $100,000 in high-demand South Florida markets.
In contrast, similar projects in Orlando or Naples might be slightly less expensive due to lower labor and permitting costs.
Material Matters – Selecting the Right Materials
Your custom wine cellar’s ultimate look and feel will depend on your chosen materials.
Wood Wine Racks: These provide a classic look, with costs varying depending on the type of wood chosen, such as pine, redwood, or mahogany.
Metal Wine Racks: For a modern look, metal wine racks offer cost-effective and durable options, such as stainless steel and wrought iron.
Flooring and Insulation: Opt for sustainable and thermally resistant materials, which may come with different price tags.
Regional Material Cost Comparison:
Because of South Florida’s high humidity, top-quality insulation and materials are strongly recommended.
This can raise your project cost compared to drier areas, but it ensures your wine is well protected from the climate.
Pro Tips to Avoid Costly Mistakes:
Always use a vapor barrier in Miami-Dade County’s humid climate.
Never skimp on insulation or climate control—these are essential in South Florida.
Avoid glass doors without proper sealing, as they can let in humidity.
[Learn more about common problems wine cellars face in Miami and how to prevent them.]
Climate Control – Ensuring the Perfect Environment
Beautiful, Functional Wine cellars must maintain consistent temperature and humidity levels.
Cooling Systems: Depending on the size of your cellar, you will need to choose a cooling system. A small, self-contained cooling unit can start around $1,000, while a more extensive split-cooling system may range from $3,000 to $6,000 and much more.
Humidity Control: Invest in a decent humidification system to avoid cork shrinkage and maintain optimal conditions for your wine collection.
Regional Climate Needs:
Wine cellars in Miami-Dade County and coastal South Florida must handle higher year-round humidity and heat.
This makes advanced cooling and humidity control systems essential, which can increase installation costs compared to projects in Orlando or Naples.
DIY vs. Professional Installation:
While some homeowners may try a DIY approach, South Florida’s challenging climate and strict building codes make professional installation the best choice.
Experts ensure your wine cellar is built to last and fully protected against heat and humidity.
Don’t Forget the Finishing Touches When Building a Wine Cellar
The final price of your custom residential or commercial wine cellars will include any additional features, finishes, and lighting choices you make.
Lighting: Consider energy-efficient and low-heat LED lights to save on energy costs.
Finishes and Decorations: Personalize your cellar with artwork, furniture, and custom finishes that reflect your taste.
[For a deeper dive into pricing and services, check out our complete guide to wine cellar cost and installation services in Miami.]
Answering Common Questions from Miami-Dade County
Q. How long does it take to build a custom wine cellar?
A. Most projects in Miami-Dade County take 3–8 weeks from design to completion, depending on size and complexity.
Q. What’s the most affordable wine cellar option?
A. Under-stairs or closet cellars are usually the least expensive, starting around $7,000–$10,000.
Q. Can I use my home’s AC instead of a wine cellar cooling system?
A. No—wine cellar cooling systems are designed specifically for precise temperature and humidity control.
Q. Will a wine cellar increase my home value?
A. Yes! Many buyers see wine cellars as a luxury feature, which can increase resale value, especially in South Florida.
Ready to Build Your Dream Wine Cellar in Miami-Dade County?
No matter where you want to build a custom wine cellar, you often see the highest wine cellar costs in Florida due to local building standards, climate requirements, and demand for luxury finishes.
However, working with experienced local professionals ensures your investment is protected, your wine is safe, and your cellar adds long-term value to your property.
Ultimately, the best way to determine the cost of your dream wine cellar is to speak with professional wine cellar consultants at Green Refrigeration LLC. Call (561) 303-7303—our experts understand the unique requirements in Miami-Dade County and will provide an accurate estimate tailored to your needs.
From restaurants to country clubs and megayachts (superyachts), our certified and licensed wine room designers and builders can meet any requirement.
Special Financing Available: Call Us Now. (561) 303-7303!
Installing a wine cellar is not just an upgrade; it’s an investment in your lifestyle and your property’s value. Let our team bring your vision to life in Miami-Dade County and throughout South Florida!
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