Selling a Business in Alabama
Selling a business in Alabama means pricing it correctly, preparing the records a buyer will ask for and finding a buyer who can pay and close. Alabama has 105,720 employer businesses and about 399,018 more with no employees. This page covers the numbers, the steps and what buyers look for.
LOCAL SNAPSHOT
Alabama by the numbers
105,720
105,720
EMPLOYER BUSINESSES
84%
84%
SMALL EMPLOYER SHARE
399,018
399,018
BUSINESSES WITH NO EMPLOYEES
1,822,666
1,822,666
EMPLOYMENT
$101.0 billion
$101.0 billion
ANNUAL PAYROLL
46,815
46,815
BUSINESSES WITH 5 TO 49 EMPLOYEES
U.S. Census Bureau, County Business Patterns 2023 and Nonemployer Statistics 2024. Counts are employer establishments, meaning business locations with paid employees.
How Alabama compares
Alabama ranks 26th among the 50 states and the District of Columbia for employer businesses.
The number of employer businesses grew 5.4% between 2018 and 2023.
Retail makes up 17% of employer businesses in Alabama, compared with 12% nationwide.
46,815 employer businesses here have 5 to 49 employees.
Alabama ranks 26th among the 50 states and the District of Columbia for employer businesses.
The number of employer businesses grew 5.4% between 2018 and 2023.
Retail makes up 17% of employer businesses in Alabama, compared with 12% nationwide.
46,815 employer businesses here have 5 to 49 employees.
How a sale works in Alabama
A sale follows the same sequence in every market. The business is valued from its earnings, assets, size and industry. The records a buyer will ask for are prepared. The business is marketed without naming it, and buyers are asked to sign a non-disclosure agreement before they see the name or the financial statements. Each buyer is checked for money and fit, the letter of intent is negotiated, the buyer's review of the books is managed, and the sale is carried to closing.
State rules on tax clearance, bulk sale notices and the transfer of permits and licenses differ from state to state.
Rules that apply in Alabama
Notice when assets are sold
Alabama law says a seller who sells out a business or its stock of goods, or quits business, must file the sales tax return within 30 days of the sale or closing. The Department of Revenue reprints this rule, Section 40-23-25 of the Code of Alabama, in its guide to closing or selling a business (Department of Revenue guide to closing a business).
Sales tax and the buyer's liability
Alabama's Department of Revenue says a buyer of an ongoing business is required to withhold enough of the price to cover the seller's unpaid sales and use taxes, unless the seller has a certificate of good standing from the Department. The Department treats a buyer who does not withhold as responsible for the seller's unpaid tax, a rule called successor liability, which means a buyer becomes responsible for the seller's unpaid taxes (Department of Revenue FAQ on a predecessor's taxes).
Permits and registrations
Alabama's Department of Revenue rules say any change in ownership or business structure requires a new license application. The same rule lets the Department close or revoke a license when the holder does not report a change in ownership (Department of Revenue rule 810-6-5-.01).
Unemployment insurance account
Alabama's Department of Workforce says a new employer that acquires the business of another liable employer is assigned that predecessor's experience, meaning its benefit charges and taxable payroll. The predecessor's experience is then used to set the new employer's unemployment tax rate. A buyer of only part of a business may qualify for a partial rate if it gives the Department notice and wage records on time (Department of Workforce FAQ on tax rate transfers).
These points come from official Alabama agency pages checked on 2026-10-24. Rules change, so check the linked agency page for the current version. This is general information and not legal or tax advice.
A sale follows the same sequence in every market. The business is valued from its earnings, assets, size and industry. The records a buyer will ask for are prepared. The business is marketed without naming it, and buyers are asked to sign a non-disclosure agreement before they see the name or the financial statements. Each buyer is checked for money and fit, the letter of intent is negotiated, the buyer's review of the books is managed, and the sale is carried to closing.
State rules on tax clearance, bulk sale notices and the transfer of permits and licenses differ from state to state.
Rules that apply in Alabama
Notice when assets are sold
Alabama law says a seller who sells out a business or its stock of goods, or quits business, must file the sales tax return within 30 days of the sale or closing. The Department of Revenue reprints this rule, Section 40-23-25 of the Code of Alabama, in its guide to closing or selling a business (Department of Revenue guide to closing a business).
Sales tax and the buyer's liability
Alabama's Department of Revenue says a buyer of an ongoing business is required to withhold enough of the price to cover the seller's unpaid sales and use taxes, unless the seller has a certificate of good standing from the Department. The Department treats a buyer who does not withhold as responsible for the seller's unpaid tax, a rule called successor liability, which means a buyer becomes responsible for the seller's unpaid taxes (Department of Revenue FAQ on a predecessor's taxes).
Permits and registrations
Alabama's Department of Revenue rules say any change in ownership or business structure requires a new license application. The same rule lets the Department close or revoke a license when the holder does not report a change in ownership (Department of Revenue rule 810-6-5-.01).
Unemployment insurance account
Alabama's Department of Workforce says a new employer that acquires the business of another liable employer is assigned that predecessor's experience, meaning its benefit charges and taxable payroll. The predecessor's experience is then used to set the new employer's unemployment tax rate. A buyer of only part of a business may qualify for a partial rate if it gives the Department notice and wage records on time (Department of Workforce FAQ on tax rate transfers).
These points come from official Alabama agency pages checked on 2026-10-24. Rules change, so check the linked agency page for the current version. This is general information and not legal or tax advice.
What buyers look for
Buyers look first at profit that holds up under review. Three years of tax returns and profit and loss statements that match each other carry more weight than a high number that cannot be shown.
How much of the business depends on the owner
How concentrated sales are among a few customers
The lease, its remaining term and the landlord's consent to a sale
The condition of equipment and the contracts that transfer
Buyers look first at profit that holds up under review. Three years of tax returns and profit and loss statements that match each other carry more weight than a high number that cannot be shown.
How much of the business depends on the owner
How concentrated sales are among a few customers
The lease, its remaining term and the landlord's consent to a sale
The condition of equipment and the contracts that transfer
INDUSTRIES
What sells in Alabama
Retail, health care and social assistance, repair, personal care and other services, accommodation and food service
Every kind of business we sell in Alabama
We sell businesses in every one of these industries in Alabama. Counts are employer businesses in the closest Census industry codes. Industries without a clean Census match are listed without a count, and a few industries share one Census category, so their counts match. A sale multiple is the price a business typically sells for as a multiple of its earnings. SDE means seller's discretionary earnings, which is the owner's pay plus the profit of the business. EBITDA means earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization.
Construction & Engineering
10,040 related employer businesses in Alabama.
General Contracting: 2,492 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Plumbing: 1,647 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x SDE.
HVAC Services: 1,647 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.6x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Landscaping: 1,359 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Interior Finishing: 1,034 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Electrical: 1,013 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Civil Engineering: 983 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 7.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Foundation & Site Prep: 838 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Roofing & Siding: 394 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Masonry: 129 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Carpentry & Framing: 83 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Remediation & Restoration: 68 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Restaurants & Food
9,324 related employer businesses in Alabama.
Quick-Service & Fast Food: 4,442 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Full-Service Restaurants: 2,771 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Coffee Shops: 784 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Grocery Stores & Markets: 782 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Liquor, Wine & Beer Stores: 448 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Bakeries: 97 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Ghost Kitchens. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Medical Practices
7,229 related employer businesses in Alabama.
Primary & Family Care: 2,665 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE.
Dental Practices: 1,402 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Physical Therapy & Rehab: 740 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Veterinary Medicine: 564 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 9.0x EBITDA.
Home Health & Hospice: 510 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Mental & Behavioral Health: 415 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Medical Labs & Imaging: 356 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Vision & Eye Care: 355 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Specialty Medicine: 118 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Urgent Care Clinics: 104 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Retail Stores
6,622 related employer businesses in Alabama.
Fashion, Apparel & Jewelry: 1,948 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Health, Beauty & Pharmacy: 1,607 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.8x - 4.2x EBITDA.
Hardware, Garden & Building: 1,296 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE + Inventory.
Home Decor & Furniture: 847 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Hobby, Toys & Gift Shops: 332 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE + Inventory.
Electronics & Repair: 330 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Sporting Goods & Firearms: 262 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.4x SDE.
Financial & Professional Services
6,402 related employer businesses in Alabama.
Insurance Agencies: 1,737 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Accounting & Tax Practices: 1,590 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Real Estate Brokerages: 1,582 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x SDE.
Private Lending: 881 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Wealth Management: 550 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.7x - 4.0x Recurring Revenue.
Mortgage Brokerages: 62 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Automotive & Boat
4,298 related employer businesses in Alabama.
Auto Repair: 1,289 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE.
Auto Parts: 1,016 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Car Dealerships: 854 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2x - 8x Blue Sky + Assets.
Collision Repair: 557 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Car Washes: 279 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Towing & Repo: 158 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Boat Dealerships: 82 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Marinas: 63 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: Cap Rate or 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Gas Stations & Convenience
3,512 related employer businesses in Alabama.
Gas Stations: 3,089 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Convenience Stores: 423 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Truck Stops & Travel Centers. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Manufacturing
3,241 related employer businesses in Alabama.
Metal Fabrication: 891 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.2x - 4.2x SDE.
Wood & Furniture Manufacturing: 614 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Printing & Plastics: 452 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.9x - 4.9x SDE.
Food & Beverage Manufacturing: 370 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.1x - 4.5x SDE.
Construction Materials Manufacturing: 319 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Medical & Chemical Manufacturing: 311 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Electronics & Tech Manufacturing: 157 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.5x EBITDA.
Textile & Apparel Manufacturing: 127 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Logistics & Transportation
3,220 related employer businesses in Alabama.
General Freight Trucking: 2,150 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 3.45x SDE.
Warehousing & Fulfillment: 297 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Heavy Haul Transport: 241 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x SDE.
Freight Brokerage & 3PL: 221 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Last-Mile & Courier: 174 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.76x - 3.32x SDE.
Commercial Moving: 106 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 3.0x SDE.
NEMT & Passenger Transport: 31 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.1x SDE.
Port Drayage. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Wholesale & Distribution
2,208 related employer businesses in Alabama.
Industrial & Construction Supply: 1,197 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Food & Beverage Distribution: 354 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Electronics, IT & Office Equipment Distribution: 287 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Chemicals, Plastics & Raw Materials Distribution: 153 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Packaging, Paper & JanSan Distribution: 88 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Medical, Dental & Pharmaceutical Distribution: 69 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Consumer Goods & Apparel Distribution: 60 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Home Services
1,861 related employer businesses in Alabama.
Residential Cleaning: 726 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.6x SDE.
Commercial Cleaning: 726 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.47x - 4.11x EBITDA.
Property Management: 673 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Pest Control: 338 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.34x - 2.90x SDE.
Security Systems: 124 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.9x EBITDA.
Audio Visual (AV). Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Junk Removal. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 3.0x SDE.
Pool & Spa Service. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x EBITDA.
Pharmacies & Medical Supply
1,717 related employer businesses in Alabama.
Compounding Pharmacies: 866 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Specialty Pharmacies: 866 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Home Infusion: 510 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Medical Supply Retail: 179 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Durable Medical Equipment (DME): 162 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Beauty & Personal Care
1,344 related employer businesses in Alabama.
Hair Salons: 740 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.25x - 2.34x SDE.
Nail Salons: 290 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.4x - 1.88x SDE.
Day Spas: 259 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE.
Tattoo Shops: 259 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Massage Parlors: 259 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Barber Shops: 55 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.25x SDE.
Medical Spas. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Hospitality & Travel
1,135 related employer businesses in Alabama.
Hotels: 908 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.6x - 5.1x EBITDA.
Motels: 908 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.1x - 2.5x SDE.
Transportation Services: 98 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.1x SDE.
Campgrounds & RV Parks: 67 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Travel Agencies: 48 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.2x SDE.
Bed & Breakfasts / Inns: 14 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Education & Childcare
1,072 related employer businesses in Alabama.
Daycare Centers: 988 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.39x - 3.35x SDE.
Tutoring Centers: 84 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Preschools. Typical sale multiple: 3.12x - 4.0x SDE.
Technology & Media
988 related employer businesses in Alabama.
Digital Marketing Agencies: 306 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Creative Agencies: 249 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 3.0x SDE.
Real Estate Media: 155 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.8x SDE.
Software Companies (SaaS): 151 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x SDE.
Media, Film & Studio Production: 127 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.5x SDE.
E-commerce & Online Brands. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Energy & Utilities
801 related employer businesses in Alabama.
Waste Management & Recycling: 279 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Propane & Fuel Distribution: 246 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Water & Wastewater Services: 208 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Oil & Gas Services: 64 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Solar & Renewable Energy: 4 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Entertainment & Recreation
714 related employer businesses in Alabama.
Bars & Pubs: 313 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Clubs & Lounges: 313 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Outdoor Recreation: 200 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Golf Courses: 126 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 8.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Arcades & FECs: 44 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.6x SDE.
Bowling Alleys: 31 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Event Venues. Typical sale multiple: 2.8x - 3.5x Earnings.
Banquet Halls. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x Earnings.
Escape Rooms. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Health & Fitness
705 related employer businesses in Alabama.
Gyms & Health Clubs: 495 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 2.93x SDE.
Yoga Studios: 495 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.07x - 2.50x SDE.
Pilates Studios: 495 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.10x - 3.00x SDE.
Personal Training Studios: 495 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.00x - 2.80x SDE.
Wellness & Recovery Centers: 210 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.5x - 9.7x EBITDA.
Senior Care & Living
557 related employer businesses in Alabama.
Non-Medical Home Care: 342 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Assisted Living Facilities: 171 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Senior Living Communities: 44 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Adult Day Services. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Pet Services
410 related employer businesses in Alabama.
Pet Grooming & Spas: 309 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Boarding, Daycare & Training: 309 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Pet Retail & Specialty Supplies: 101 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE + Inventory.
Mobile & In-Home Pet Care. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE + Fleet.
Land & Agriculture
6 related employer businesses in Alabama.
Agricultural Labor Contracting: 6 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.4x - 6.09x EBITDA.
Crop Production. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 6.69x EBITDA.
Livestock & Ranching. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.76x EBITDA.
Agribusiness & Infrastructure. Typical sale multiple: 5.2x - 10.3x EBITDA.
AgTech & Precision Ag. Typical sale multiple: 8.3x - 12.1x EBITDA.
Agri-Tourism & Lifestyle. Typical sale multiple: 2.51x - 4.54x SDE.
E-commerce & Online Businesses
Amazon FBA Businesses. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Online Marketplaces. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 6.0x SDE.
We sell businesses in every one of these industries in Alabama. Counts are employer businesses in the closest Census industry codes. Industries without a clean Census match are listed without a count, and a few industries share one Census category, so their counts match. A sale multiple is the price a business typically sells for as a multiple of its earnings. SDE means seller's discretionary earnings, which is the owner's pay plus the profit of the business. EBITDA means earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization.
Construction & Engineering
10,040 related employer businesses in Alabama.
General Contracting: 2,492 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Plumbing: 1,647 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x SDE.
HVAC Services: 1,647 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.6x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Landscaping: 1,359 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Interior Finishing: 1,034 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Electrical: 1,013 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Civil Engineering: 983 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 7.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Foundation & Site Prep: 838 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Roofing & Siding: 394 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Masonry: 129 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Carpentry & Framing: 83 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Remediation & Restoration: 68 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Restaurants & Food
9,324 related employer businesses in Alabama.
Quick-Service & Fast Food: 4,442 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Full-Service Restaurants: 2,771 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Coffee Shops: 784 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Grocery Stores & Markets: 782 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Liquor, Wine & Beer Stores: 448 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Bakeries: 97 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Ghost Kitchens. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Medical Practices
7,229 related employer businesses in Alabama.
Primary & Family Care: 2,665 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE.
Dental Practices: 1,402 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Physical Therapy & Rehab: 740 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Veterinary Medicine: 564 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 9.0x EBITDA.
Home Health & Hospice: 510 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Mental & Behavioral Health: 415 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Medical Labs & Imaging: 356 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Vision & Eye Care: 355 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Specialty Medicine: 118 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Urgent Care Clinics: 104 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Retail Stores
6,622 related employer businesses in Alabama.
Fashion, Apparel & Jewelry: 1,948 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Health, Beauty & Pharmacy: 1,607 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.8x - 4.2x EBITDA.
Hardware, Garden & Building: 1,296 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE + Inventory.
Home Decor & Furniture: 847 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Hobby, Toys & Gift Shops: 332 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE + Inventory.
Electronics & Repair: 330 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Sporting Goods & Firearms: 262 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.4x SDE.
Financial & Professional Services
6,402 related employer businesses in Alabama.
Insurance Agencies: 1,737 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Accounting & Tax Practices: 1,590 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Real Estate Brokerages: 1,582 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x SDE.
Private Lending: 881 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Wealth Management: 550 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.7x - 4.0x Recurring Revenue.
Mortgage Brokerages: 62 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Automotive & Boat
4,298 related employer businesses in Alabama.
Auto Repair: 1,289 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE.
Auto Parts: 1,016 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Car Dealerships: 854 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2x - 8x Blue Sky + Assets.
Collision Repair: 557 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Car Washes: 279 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Towing & Repo: 158 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Boat Dealerships: 82 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Marinas: 63 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: Cap Rate or 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Gas Stations & Convenience
3,512 related employer businesses in Alabama.
Gas Stations: 3,089 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Convenience Stores: 423 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Truck Stops & Travel Centers. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Manufacturing
3,241 related employer businesses in Alabama.
Metal Fabrication: 891 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.2x - 4.2x SDE.
Wood & Furniture Manufacturing: 614 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Printing & Plastics: 452 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.9x - 4.9x SDE.
Food & Beverage Manufacturing: 370 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.1x - 4.5x SDE.
Construction Materials Manufacturing: 319 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Medical & Chemical Manufacturing: 311 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Electronics & Tech Manufacturing: 157 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.5x EBITDA.
Textile & Apparel Manufacturing: 127 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Logistics & Transportation
3,220 related employer businesses in Alabama.
General Freight Trucking: 2,150 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 3.45x SDE.
Warehousing & Fulfillment: 297 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Heavy Haul Transport: 241 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x SDE.
Freight Brokerage & 3PL: 221 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Last-Mile & Courier: 174 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.76x - 3.32x SDE.
Commercial Moving: 106 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 3.0x SDE.
NEMT & Passenger Transport: 31 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.1x SDE.
Port Drayage. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Wholesale & Distribution
2,208 related employer businesses in Alabama.
Industrial & Construction Supply: 1,197 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Food & Beverage Distribution: 354 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Electronics, IT & Office Equipment Distribution: 287 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Chemicals, Plastics & Raw Materials Distribution: 153 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Packaging, Paper & JanSan Distribution: 88 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Medical, Dental & Pharmaceutical Distribution: 69 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Consumer Goods & Apparel Distribution: 60 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Home Services
1,861 related employer businesses in Alabama.
Residential Cleaning: 726 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.6x SDE.
Commercial Cleaning: 726 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.47x - 4.11x EBITDA.
Property Management: 673 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Pest Control: 338 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.34x - 2.90x SDE.
Security Systems: 124 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.9x EBITDA.
Audio Visual (AV). Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Junk Removal. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 3.0x SDE.
Pool & Spa Service. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x EBITDA.
Pharmacies & Medical Supply
1,717 related employer businesses in Alabama.
Compounding Pharmacies: 866 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Specialty Pharmacies: 866 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Home Infusion: 510 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Medical Supply Retail: 179 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Durable Medical Equipment (DME): 162 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Beauty & Personal Care
1,344 related employer businesses in Alabama.
Hair Salons: 740 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.25x - 2.34x SDE.
Nail Salons: 290 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.4x - 1.88x SDE.
Day Spas: 259 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE.
Tattoo Shops: 259 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Massage Parlors: 259 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Barber Shops: 55 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.25x SDE.
Medical Spas. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Hospitality & Travel
1,135 related employer businesses in Alabama.
Hotels: 908 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.6x - 5.1x EBITDA.
Motels: 908 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.1x - 2.5x SDE.
Transportation Services: 98 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.1x SDE.
Campgrounds & RV Parks: 67 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Travel Agencies: 48 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.2x SDE.
Bed & Breakfasts / Inns: 14 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Education & Childcare
1,072 related employer businesses in Alabama.
Daycare Centers: 988 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.39x - 3.35x SDE.
Tutoring Centers: 84 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Preschools. Typical sale multiple: 3.12x - 4.0x SDE.
Technology & Media
988 related employer businesses in Alabama.
Digital Marketing Agencies: 306 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Creative Agencies: 249 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 3.0x SDE.
Real Estate Media: 155 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.8x SDE.
Software Companies (SaaS): 151 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x SDE.
Media, Film & Studio Production: 127 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.5x SDE.
E-commerce & Online Brands. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Energy & Utilities
801 related employer businesses in Alabama.
Waste Management & Recycling: 279 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Propane & Fuel Distribution: 246 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Water & Wastewater Services: 208 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Oil & Gas Services: 64 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Solar & Renewable Energy: 4 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Entertainment & Recreation
714 related employer businesses in Alabama.
Bars & Pubs: 313 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Clubs & Lounges: 313 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Outdoor Recreation: 200 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Golf Courses: 126 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 8.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Arcades & FECs: 44 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.6x SDE.
Bowling Alleys: 31 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Event Venues. Typical sale multiple: 2.8x - 3.5x Earnings.
Banquet Halls. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x Earnings.
Escape Rooms. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Health & Fitness
705 related employer businesses in Alabama.
Gyms & Health Clubs: 495 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 2.93x SDE.
Yoga Studios: 495 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.07x - 2.50x SDE.
Pilates Studios: 495 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.10x - 3.00x SDE.
Personal Training Studios: 495 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.00x - 2.80x SDE.
Wellness & Recovery Centers: 210 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.5x - 9.7x EBITDA.
Senior Care & Living
557 related employer businesses in Alabama.
Non-Medical Home Care: 342 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Assisted Living Facilities: 171 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Senior Living Communities: 44 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Adult Day Services. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Pet Services
410 related employer businesses in Alabama.
Pet Grooming & Spas: 309 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Boarding, Daycare & Training: 309 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Pet Retail & Specialty Supplies: 101 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE + Inventory.
Mobile & In-Home Pet Care. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE + Fleet.
Land & Agriculture
6 related employer businesses in Alabama.
Agricultural Labor Contracting: 6 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.4x - 6.09x EBITDA.
Crop Production. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 6.69x EBITDA.
Livestock & Ranching. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.76x EBITDA.
Agribusiness & Infrastructure. Typical sale multiple: 5.2x - 10.3x EBITDA.
AgTech & Precision Ag. Typical sale multiple: 8.3x - 12.1x EBITDA.
Agri-Tourism & Lifestyle. Typical sale multiple: 2.51x - 4.54x SDE.
E-commerce & Online Businesses
Amazon FBA Businesses. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Online Marketplaces. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 6.0x SDE.
Metro areas in this state
Counties
Working with owners in Alabama
Business Advisors of America works with owners who are selling a business in Alabama. Contact us to talk about a sale.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Questions owners in Alabama ask
How long does it take to sell a business in Alabama?
The time depends on the price, the quality of the records and the number of qualified buyers. Many sales take six months or longer from the start of the process to closing.
How is a business valued in Alabama?
Valuation starts with the earnings the business produces for an owner, then adjusts for assets, size, industry and the terms a buyer is likely to accept. The result is a range, and the asking price is set inside it.
Is the sale confidential?
Buyers are asked to sign a non-disclosure agreement before they see the name of the business or its financial statements.
What should I prepare before listing?
Three years of tax returns and profit and loss statements, a current balance sheet, the lease, a list of equipment and a summary of key contracts.
What is the difference between SDE and EBITDA?
SDE means seller's discretionary earnings, which is the owner's pay plus the profit of the business. EBITDA means earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, and it is used for larger businesses that run without the owner.
FROM OUR BLOG
Guides for owners in Alabama
October 3, 2025
Business Owners
Add-Backs: What Counts, What Does Not, and What Buyers Push Back On
Every add-back you can prove raises your sale price by two to three times its amount. Every add-back you cannot prove costs you credibility on all the others.
Read article
October 3, 2025
Business Owners
Add-Backs: What Counts, What Does Not, and What Buyers Push Back On
Every add-back you can prove raises your sale price by two to three times its amount. Every add-back you cannot prove costs you credibility on all the others.
Read article
March 5, 2026
Business Owners
Buyer Qualification: How We Screen Out the Buyers Who Cannot Close
Most inquiries on a business listing come from people who cannot close. Here is how they get screened out before they see your name or your financials.
Read article
March 5, 2026
Business Owners
Buyer Qualification: How We Screen Out the Buyers Who Cannot Close
Most inquiries on a business listing come from people who cannot close. Here is how they get screened out before they see your name or your financials.
Read article
February 9, 2026
Business Owners
The Confidential Information Memorandum: What Goes In It and Why
The CIM is the document a buyer reads before they decide to spend time on your business. Here is what it has to contain and the mistakes that cost sellers offers.
Read article
February 9, 2026
Business Owners
The Confidential Information Memorandum: What Goes In It and Why
The CIM is the document a buyer reads before they decide to spend time on your business. Here is what it has to contain and the mistakes that cost sellers offers.
Read article