Selling a Business in California
Selling a business in California means pricing it correctly, preparing the records a buyer will ask for and finding a buyer who can pay and close. California has 1,029,689 employer businesses and about 3,686,618 more with no employees. This page covers the numbers, the steps and what buyers look for.
LOCAL SNAPSHOT
California by the numbers
1,029,689
1,029,689
EMPLOYER BUSINESSES
87%
87%
SMALL EMPLOYER SHARE
3,686,618
3,686,618
BUSINESSES WITH NO EMPLOYEES
16,405,436
16,405,436
EMPLOYMENT
$1.43 trillion
$1.43 trillion
ANNUAL PAYROLL
378,759
378,759
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 California compares
California ranks 1st among the 50 states and the District of Columbia for employer businesses.
The number of employer businesses grew 7.9% between 2018 and 2023.
Professional and technical services makes up 14% of employer businesses in California, compared with 12% nationwide.
378,759 employer businesses here have 5 to 49 employees.
California ranks 1st among the 50 states and the District of Columbia for employer businesses.
The number of employer businesses grew 7.9% between 2018 and 2023.
Professional and technical services makes up 14% of employer businesses in California, compared with 12% nationwide.
378,759 employer businesses here have 5 to 49 employees.
How a sale works in California
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 California
Notice when assets are sold
The Los Angeles County Treasurer and Tax Collector says that under California law, a bulk sale is a sale of more than half of a seller's inventory and equipment outside the ordinary course of business. Notice of that sale must be recorded with the County Recorder, published, and received by the county Tax Collector. The office refers readers to sections 6101 to 6111 of the commercial code for the notice rules. Source: Los Angeles County Treasurer and Tax Collector bulk sale guidance
Sales tax and the buyer's liability
The California Department of Tax and Fee Administration says the buyer of a business or its stock of goods can be held personally liable for the seller's unpaid sales tax. This is called successor liability, which means a buyer becomes responsible for the seller's unpaid taxes. The department says the buyer is released from the duty to withhold part of the purchase price once it obtains a Certificate of Payment showing that no taxes are due from the seller. Source: California Department of Tax and Fee Administration guide to closing out an account
Permits and registrations
The California Department of Tax and Fee Administration says a seller's permit account is valid only for the business entity in whose name it was issued, and that certain changes in ownership will invalidate it. Source: California Department of Tax and Fee Administration guide to closing out an account
Unemployment insurance account
The California Employment Development Department says a buyer who acquires a business registered with the department may apply to transfer all or part of the seller's reserve account, which is the record used to set an employer's unemployment insurance tax rate. The department notes that not all reserve account balances are beneficial and that some transfers are required by law. An application filed more than 90 days after the acquisition may be limited. Source: Employment Development Department Form DE 4453
These points come from official California 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 California
Notice when assets are sold
The Los Angeles County Treasurer and Tax Collector says that under California law, a bulk sale is a sale of more than half of a seller's inventory and equipment outside the ordinary course of business. Notice of that sale must be recorded with the County Recorder, published, and received by the county Tax Collector. The office refers readers to sections 6101 to 6111 of the commercial code for the notice rules. Source: Los Angeles County Treasurer and Tax Collector bulk sale guidance
Sales tax and the buyer's liability
The California Department of Tax and Fee Administration says the buyer of a business or its stock of goods can be held personally liable for the seller's unpaid sales tax. This is called successor liability, which means a buyer becomes responsible for the seller's unpaid taxes. The department says the buyer is released from the duty to withhold part of the purchase price once it obtains a Certificate of Payment showing that no taxes are due from the seller. Source: California Department of Tax and Fee Administration guide to closing out an account
Permits and registrations
The California Department of Tax and Fee Administration says a seller's permit account is valid only for the business entity in whose name it was issued, and that certain changes in ownership will invalidate it. Source: California Department of Tax and Fee Administration guide to closing out an account
Unemployment insurance account
The California Employment Development Department says a buyer who acquires a business registered with the department may apply to transfer all or part of the seller's reserve account, which is the record used to set an employer's unemployment insurance tax rate. The department notes that not all reserve account balances are beneficial and that some transfers are required by law. An application filed more than 90 days after the acquisition may be limited. Source: Employment Development Department Form DE 4453
These points come from official California 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 California
Professional and technical services, health care and social assistance, retail, accommodation and food service
Every kind of business we sell in California
We sell businesses in every one of these industries in California. 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
95,840 related employer businesses in California.
General Contracting: 29,852 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Interior Finishing: 14,931 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Plumbing: 11,686 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x SDE.
HVAC Services: 11,686 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.6x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Electrical: 10,162 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Landscaping: 9,393 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Civil Engineering: 8,898 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 7.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Foundation & Site Prep: 4,874 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Roofing & Siding: 3,245 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Masonry: 1,300 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Carpentry & Framing: 988 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Remediation & Restoration: 511 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Restaurants & Food
93,101 related employer businesses in California.
Quick-Service & Fast Food: 34,527 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Full-Service Restaurants: 31,333 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Coffee Shops: 13,412 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Grocery Stores & Markets: 8,044 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Liquor, Wine & Beer Stores: 4,408 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Bakeries: 1,377 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Ghost Kitchens. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Medical Practices
84,224 related employer businesses in California.
Primary & Family Care: 29,615 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE.
Dental Practices: 22,757 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Mental & Behavioral Health: 8,557 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Home Health & Hospice: 5,577 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Physical Therapy & Rehab: 5,369 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Veterinary Medicine: 3,467 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 9.0x EBITDA.
Vision & Eye Care: 2,757 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Medical Labs & Imaging: 2,739 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Specialty Medicine: 2,163 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Urgent Care Clinics: 1,223 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Financial & Professional Services
67,747 related employer businesses in California.
Real Estate Brokerages: 22,558 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x SDE.
Accounting & Tax Practices: 18,655 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Insurance Agencies: 13,919 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Wealth Management: 7,469 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.7x - 4.0x Recurring Revenue.
Private Lending: 2,713 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Mortgage Brokerages: 2,433 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Retail Stores
43,749 related employer businesses in California.
Fashion, Apparel & Jewelry: 14,848 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Health, Beauty & Pharmacy: 9,787 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.8x - 4.2x EBITDA.
Hardware, Garden & Building: 6,397 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE + Inventory.
Home Decor & Furniture: 4,662 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Hobby, Toys & Gift Shops: 2,926 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE + Inventory.
Electronics & Repair: 2,889 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Sporting Goods & Firearms: 2,240 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.4x SDE.
Logistics & Transportation
35,457 related employer businesses in California.
General Freight Trucking: 24,075 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 3.45x SDE.
Freight Brokerage & 3PL: 3,580 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Warehousing & Fulfillment: 2,801 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Last-Mile & Courier: 2,149 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.76x - 3.32x SDE.
Commercial Moving: 1,356 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 3.0x SDE.
Heavy Haul Transport: 974 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x SDE.
NEMT & Passenger Transport: 522 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.1x SDE.
Port Drayage. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Automotive & Boat
29,627 related employer businesses in California.
Auto Repair: 12,578 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE.
Auto Parts: 5,312 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Collision Repair: 4,141 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Car Dealerships: 3,625 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2x - 8x Blue Sky + Assets.
Car Washes: 2,231 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Towing & Repo: 1,292 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Boat Dealerships: 224 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Marinas: 224 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: Cap Rate or 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Technology & Media
29,479 related employer businesses in California.
Media, Film & Studio Production: 10,496 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.5x SDE.
Creative Agencies: 6,824 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 3.0x SDE.
Digital Marketing Agencies: 5,926 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Software Companies (SaaS): 3,890 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x SDE.
Real Estate Media: 2,343 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.8x SDE.
E-commerce & Online Brands. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Manufacturing
29,237 related employer businesses in California.
Food & Beverage Manufacturing: 6,627 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.1x - 4.5x SDE.
Metal Fabrication: 6,127 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.2x - 4.2x SDE.
Printing & Plastics: 3,884 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.9x - 4.9x SDE.
Electronics & Tech Manufacturing: 3,251 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.5x EBITDA.
Medical & Chemical Manufacturing: 3,095 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Wood & Furniture Manufacturing: 2,750 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Textile & Apparel Manufacturing: 2,391 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Construction Materials Manufacturing: 1,112 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Wholesale & Distribution
27,367 related employer businesses in California.
Industrial & Construction Supply: 7,661 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Food & Beverage Distribution: 6,630 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Consumer Goods & Apparel Distribution: 4,619 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Electronics, IT & Office Equipment Distribution: 4,388 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Medical, Dental & Pharmaceutical Distribution: 1,742 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Packaging, Paper & JanSan Distribution: 1,181 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Chemicals, Plastics & Raw Materials Distribution: 1,146 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Home Services
22,882 related employer businesses in California.
Property Management: 13,161 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Residential Cleaning: 6,956 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.6x SDE.
Commercial Cleaning: 6,956 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.47x - 4.11x EBITDA.
Pest Control: 1,984 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.34x - 2.90x SDE.
Security Systems: 781 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.
Beauty & Personal Care
19,959 related employer businesses in California.
Hair Salons: 8,733 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.25x - 2.34x SDE.
Nail Salons: 6,750 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.4x - 1.88x SDE.
Day Spas: 3,882 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE.
Tattoo Shops: 3,882 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Massage Parlors: 3,882 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Barber Shops: 594 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.25x SDE.
Medical Spas. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Pharmacies & Medical Supply
12,374 related employer businesses in California.
Home Infusion: 5,577 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Compounding Pharmacies: 4,247 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Specialty Pharmacies: 4,247 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Durable Medical Equipment (DME): 1,550 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Medical Supply Retail: 1,000 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Education & Childcare
11,691 related employer businesses in California.
Daycare Centers: 9,670 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.39x - 3.35x SDE.
Tutoring Centers: 2,021 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Preschools. Typical sale multiple: 3.12x - 4.0x SDE.
Gas Stations & Convenience
11,228 related employer businesses in California.
Gas Stations: 8,116 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Convenience Stores: 3,112 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.
Hospitality & Travel
10,111 related employer businesses in California.
Hotels: 6,020 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.6x - 5.1x EBITDA.
Motels: 6,020 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.1x - 2.5x SDE.
Transportation Services: 2,245 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.1x SDE.
Travel Agencies: 1,301 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.2x SDE.
Campgrounds & RV Parks: 357 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Bed & Breakfasts / Inns: 188 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Senior Care & Living
8,596 related employer businesses in California.
Non-Medical Home Care: 4,324 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Assisted Living Facilities: 3,755 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Senior Living Communities: 517 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Adult Day Services. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Health & Fitness
8,248 related employer businesses in California.
Gyms & Health Clubs: 5,371 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 2.93x SDE.
Yoga Studios: 5,371 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.07x - 2.50x SDE.
Pilates Studios: 5,371 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.10x - 3.00x SDE.
Personal Training Studios: 5,371 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.00x - 2.80x SDE.
Wellness & Recovery Centers: 2,877 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.5x - 9.7x EBITDA.
Entertainment & Recreation
6,638 related employer businesses in California.
Bars & Pubs: 3,335 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Clubs & Lounges: 3,335 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Outdoor Recreation: 2,166 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Golf Courses: 606 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 8.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Arcades & FECs: 358 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.6x SDE.
Bowling Alleys: 173 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.
Energy & Utilities
4,376 related employer businesses in California.
Waste Management & Recycling: 1,563 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Water & Wastewater Services: 1,408 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Propane & Fuel Distribution: 794 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Oil & Gas Services: 306 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Solar & Renewable Energy: 305 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Pet Services
3,757 related employer businesses in California.
Pet Grooming & Spas: 2,591 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Boarding, Daycare & Training: 2,591 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Pet Retail & Specialty Supplies: 1,166 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
211 related employer businesses in California.
Agricultural Labor Contracting: 211 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 California. 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
95,840 related employer businesses in California.
General Contracting: 29,852 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Interior Finishing: 14,931 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Plumbing: 11,686 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x SDE.
HVAC Services: 11,686 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.6x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Electrical: 10,162 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Landscaping: 9,393 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Civil Engineering: 8,898 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 7.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Foundation & Site Prep: 4,874 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Roofing & Siding: 3,245 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Masonry: 1,300 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Carpentry & Framing: 988 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Remediation & Restoration: 511 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Restaurants & Food
93,101 related employer businesses in California.
Quick-Service & Fast Food: 34,527 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Full-Service Restaurants: 31,333 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Coffee Shops: 13,412 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Grocery Stores & Markets: 8,044 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Liquor, Wine & Beer Stores: 4,408 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Bakeries: 1,377 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Ghost Kitchens. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Medical Practices
84,224 related employer businesses in California.
Primary & Family Care: 29,615 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE.
Dental Practices: 22,757 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Mental & Behavioral Health: 8,557 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Home Health & Hospice: 5,577 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Physical Therapy & Rehab: 5,369 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Veterinary Medicine: 3,467 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 9.0x EBITDA.
Vision & Eye Care: 2,757 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Medical Labs & Imaging: 2,739 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Specialty Medicine: 2,163 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Urgent Care Clinics: 1,223 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Financial & Professional Services
67,747 related employer businesses in California.
Real Estate Brokerages: 22,558 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x SDE.
Accounting & Tax Practices: 18,655 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Insurance Agencies: 13,919 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Wealth Management: 7,469 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.7x - 4.0x Recurring Revenue.
Private Lending: 2,713 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Mortgage Brokerages: 2,433 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Retail Stores
43,749 related employer businesses in California.
Fashion, Apparel & Jewelry: 14,848 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Health, Beauty & Pharmacy: 9,787 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.8x - 4.2x EBITDA.
Hardware, Garden & Building: 6,397 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE + Inventory.
Home Decor & Furniture: 4,662 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Hobby, Toys & Gift Shops: 2,926 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE + Inventory.
Electronics & Repair: 2,889 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Sporting Goods & Firearms: 2,240 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.4x SDE.
Logistics & Transportation
35,457 related employer businesses in California.
General Freight Trucking: 24,075 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 3.45x SDE.
Freight Brokerage & 3PL: 3,580 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Warehousing & Fulfillment: 2,801 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Last-Mile & Courier: 2,149 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.76x - 3.32x SDE.
Commercial Moving: 1,356 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 3.0x SDE.
Heavy Haul Transport: 974 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x SDE.
NEMT & Passenger Transport: 522 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.1x SDE.
Port Drayage. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Automotive & Boat
29,627 related employer businesses in California.
Auto Repair: 12,578 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE.
Auto Parts: 5,312 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Collision Repair: 4,141 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Car Dealerships: 3,625 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2x - 8x Blue Sky + Assets.
Car Washes: 2,231 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Towing & Repo: 1,292 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Boat Dealerships: 224 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Marinas: 224 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: Cap Rate or 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Technology & Media
29,479 related employer businesses in California.
Media, Film & Studio Production: 10,496 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.5x SDE.
Creative Agencies: 6,824 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 3.0x SDE.
Digital Marketing Agencies: 5,926 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Software Companies (SaaS): 3,890 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x SDE.
Real Estate Media: 2,343 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.8x SDE.
E-commerce & Online Brands. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Manufacturing
29,237 related employer businesses in California.
Food & Beverage Manufacturing: 6,627 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.1x - 4.5x SDE.
Metal Fabrication: 6,127 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.2x - 4.2x SDE.
Printing & Plastics: 3,884 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.9x - 4.9x SDE.
Electronics & Tech Manufacturing: 3,251 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.5x EBITDA.
Medical & Chemical Manufacturing: 3,095 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Wood & Furniture Manufacturing: 2,750 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Textile & Apparel Manufacturing: 2,391 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Construction Materials Manufacturing: 1,112 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Wholesale & Distribution
27,367 related employer businesses in California.
Industrial & Construction Supply: 7,661 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Food & Beverage Distribution: 6,630 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Consumer Goods & Apparel Distribution: 4,619 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Electronics, IT & Office Equipment Distribution: 4,388 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Medical, Dental & Pharmaceutical Distribution: 1,742 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Packaging, Paper & JanSan Distribution: 1,181 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Chemicals, Plastics & Raw Materials Distribution: 1,146 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Home Services
22,882 related employer businesses in California.
Property Management: 13,161 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Residential Cleaning: 6,956 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.6x SDE.
Commercial Cleaning: 6,956 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.47x - 4.11x EBITDA.
Pest Control: 1,984 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.34x - 2.90x SDE.
Security Systems: 781 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.
Beauty & Personal Care
19,959 related employer businesses in California.
Hair Salons: 8,733 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.25x - 2.34x SDE.
Nail Salons: 6,750 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.4x - 1.88x SDE.
Day Spas: 3,882 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE.
Tattoo Shops: 3,882 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Massage Parlors: 3,882 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Barber Shops: 594 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.25x SDE.
Medical Spas. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Pharmacies & Medical Supply
12,374 related employer businesses in California.
Home Infusion: 5,577 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Compounding Pharmacies: 4,247 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Specialty Pharmacies: 4,247 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Durable Medical Equipment (DME): 1,550 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Medical Supply Retail: 1,000 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Education & Childcare
11,691 related employer businesses in California.
Daycare Centers: 9,670 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.39x - 3.35x SDE.
Tutoring Centers: 2,021 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Preschools. Typical sale multiple: 3.12x - 4.0x SDE.
Gas Stations & Convenience
11,228 related employer businesses in California.
Gas Stations: 8,116 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Convenience Stores: 3,112 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.
Hospitality & Travel
10,111 related employer businesses in California.
Hotels: 6,020 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.6x - 5.1x EBITDA.
Motels: 6,020 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.1x - 2.5x SDE.
Transportation Services: 2,245 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.1x SDE.
Travel Agencies: 1,301 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.2x SDE.
Campgrounds & RV Parks: 357 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Bed & Breakfasts / Inns: 188 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Senior Care & Living
8,596 related employer businesses in California.
Non-Medical Home Care: 4,324 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Assisted Living Facilities: 3,755 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Senior Living Communities: 517 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Adult Day Services. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Health & Fitness
8,248 related employer businesses in California.
Gyms & Health Clubs: 5,371 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 2.93x SDE.
Yoga Studios: 5,371 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.07x - 2.50x SDE.
Pilates Studios: 5,371 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.10x - 3.00x SDE.
Personal Training Studios: 5,371 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.00x - 2.80x SDE.
Wellness & Recovery Centers: 2,877 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.5x - 9.7x EBITDA.
Entertainment & Recreation
6,638 related employer businesses in California.
Bars & Pubs: 3,335 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Clubs & Lounges: 3,335 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Outdoor Recreation: 2,166 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Golf Courses: 606 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 8.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Arcades & FECs: 358 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.6x SDE.
Bowling Alleys: 173 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.
Energy & Utilities
4,376 related employer businesses in California.
Waste Management & Recycling: 1,563 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Water & Wastewater Services: 1,408 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Propane & Fuel Distribution: 794 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Oil & Gas Services: 306 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Solar & Renewable Energy: 305 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Pet Services
3,757 related employer businesses in California.
Pet Grooming & Spas: 2,591 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Boarding, Daycare & Training: 2,591 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Pet Retail & Specialty Supplies: 1,166 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
211 related employer businesses in California.
Agricultural Labor Contracting: 211 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.
Working with owners in California
Business Advisors of America works with owners who are selling a business in California. Contact us to talk about a sale.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Questions owners in California ask
How long does it take to sell a business in California?
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 California?
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 California
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