Selling a Business in Illinois
Selling a business in Illinois means pricing it correctly, preparing the records a buyer will ask for and finding a buyer who can pay and close. Illinois has 322,415 employer businesses and about 1,160,612 more with no employees. This page covers the numbers, the steps and what buyers look for.
LOCAL SNAPSHOT
Illinois by the numbers
322,415
322,415
EMPLOYER BUSINESSES
85%
85%
SMALL EMPLOYER SHARE
1,160,612
1,160,612
BUSINESSES WITH NO EMPLOYEES
5,661,761
5,661,761
EMPLOYMENT
$409.9 billion
$409.9 billion
ANNUAL PAYROLL
120,411
120,411
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 Illinois compares
Illinois ranks 5th among the 50 states and the District of Columbia for employer businesses.
The number of employer businesses grew 0.5% between 2018 and 2023.
Transportation and warehousing makes up 6% of employer businesses in Illinois, compared with 3% nationwide.
120,411 employer businesses here have 5 to 49 employees.
Illinois ranks 5th among the 50 states and the District of Columbia for employer businesses.
The number of employer businesses grew 0.5% between 2018 and 2023.
Transportation and warehousing makes up 6% of employer businesses in Illinois, compared with 3% nationwide.
120,411 employer businesses here have 5 to 49 employees.
How a sale works in Illinois
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 Illinois
Notice when assets are sold
The Illinois Department of Revenue says a bulk sale happens when a business, outside its normal course of business, sells or transfers the major part of its stock of goods, furniture, fixtures, machinery, equipment, land or buildings. In a bulk sale the buyer must file Form CBS-1, Notice of Sale, Purchase, or Transfer of Business Assets, with the Department at least 10 business days before the sale. Source: Department of Revenue Form CBS-1 instructions
Sales tax and the buyer's liability
The Illinois Department of Revenue says that if Form CBS-1 is not filed on time, the buyer is personally liable for what the seller owes the Department, up to the reasonable value of the property acquired. The Department issues a bulk sales release only after all taxes, penalties and interest have been paid. Source: Department of Revenue Form CBS-1 instructions
Permits and registrations
The Illinois Department of Revenue says a Certificate of Registration or License is not transferable. A buyer does not take over the seller's registration. Source: Department of Revenue registration question and answer
Unemployment insurance account
The Illinois Department of Employment Security uses Form ER-65 for a buyer and seller to apply jointly to transfer the part of the seller's experience rating record, the history used to set the unemployment tax rate, tied to a distinct portion of the business the buyer acquired. The form cites Section 1507B of the Illinois Unemployment Insurance Act and says an approved application becomes final. Source: Department of Employment Security Form ER-65
These points come from official Illinois 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 Illinois
Notice when assets are sold
The Illinois Department of Revenue says a bulk sale happens when a business, outside its normal course of business, sells or transfers the major part of its stock of goods, furniture, fixtures, machinery, equipment, land or buildings. In a bulk sale the buyer must file Form CBS-1, Notice of Sale, Purchase, or Transfer of Business Assets, with the Department at least 10 business days before the sale. Source: Department of Revenue Form CBS-1 instructions
Sales tax and the buyer's liability
The Illinois Department of Revenue says that if Form CBS-1 is not filed on time, the buyer is personally liable for what the seller owes the Department, up to the reasonable value of the property acquired. The Department issues a bulk sales release only after all taxes, penalties and interest have been paid. Source: Department of Revenue Form CBS-1 instructions
Permits and registrations
The Illinois Department of Revenue says a Certificate of Registration or License is not transferable. A buyer does not take over the seller's registration. Source: Department of Revenue registration question and answer
Unemployment insurance account
The Illinois Department of Employment Security uses Form ER-65 for a buyer and seller to apply jointly to transfer the part of the seller's experience rating record, the history used to set the unemployment tax rate, tied to a distinct portion of the business the buyer acquired. The form cites Section 1507B of the Illinois Unemployment Insurance Act and says an approved application becomes final. Source: Department of Employment Security Form ER-65
These points come from official Illinois 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 Illinois
Professional and technical services, health care and social assistance, retail, repair, personal care and other services
Every kind of business we sell in Illinois
We sell businesses in every one of these industries in Illinois. 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
32,636 related employer businesses in Illinois.
General Contracting: 9,565 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Landscaping: 5,034 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Interior Finishing: 4,734 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Plumbing: 4,070 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x SDE.
HVAC Services: 4,070 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.6x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Electrical: 2,689 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Foundation & Site Prep: 1,903 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Civil Engineering: 1,752 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 7.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Roofing & Siding: 1,503 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Masonry: 854 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Carpentry & Framing: 374 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Remediation & Restoration: 158 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Restaurants & Food
27,802 related employer businesses in Illinois.
Quick-Service & Fast Food: 10,622 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Full-Service Restaurants: 9,928 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Coffee Shops: 2,677 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Grocery Stores & Markets: 2,647 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Liquor, Wine & Beer Stores: 1,496 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Bakeries: 432 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Ghost Kitchens. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Medical Practices
23,151 related employer businesses in Illinois.
Primary & Family Care: 6,775 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE.
Dental Practices: 5,781 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Mental & Behavioral Health: 3,134 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Physical Therapy & Rehab: 2,545 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Home Health & Hospice: 1,213 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Veterinary Medicine: 1,159 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 9.0x EBITDA.
Vision & Eye Care: 868 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Specialty Medicine: 728 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Medical Labs & Imaging: 698 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Urgent Care Clinics: 250 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Financial & Professional Services
19,853 related employer businesses in Illinois.
Insurance Agencies: 5,679 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Accounting & Tax Practices: 5,146 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Real Estate Brokerages: 4,933 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x SDE.
Wealth Management: 3,030 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.7x - 4.0x Recurring Revenue.
Private Lending: 786 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Mortgage Brokerages: 279 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Logistics & Transportation
18,885 related employer businesses in Illinois.
General Freight Trucking: 15,020 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 3.45x SDE.
Freight Brokerage & 3PL: 1,274 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Warehousing & Fulfillment: 976 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Last-Mile & Courier: 594 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.76x - 3.32x SDE.
Heavy Haul Transport: 552 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x SDE.
Commercial Moving: 374 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 3.0x SDE.
NEMT & Passenger Transport: 95 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.1x SDE.
Port Drayage. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Retail Stores
13,885 related employer businesses in Illinois.
Fashion, Apparel & Jewelry: 4,388 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Health, Beauty & Pharmacy: 3,137 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.8x - 4.2x EBITDA.
Hardware, Garden & Building: 2,325 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE + Inventory.
Home Decor & Furniture: 1,556 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Electronics & Repair: 998 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Hobby, Toys & Gift Shops: 882 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE + Inventory.
Sporting Goods & Firearms: 599 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.4x SDE.
Automotive & Boat
11,176 related employer businesses in Illinois.
Auto Repair: 4,899 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE.
Auto Parts: 1,798 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Car Dealerships: 1,590 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2x - 8x Blue Sky + Assets.
Collision Repair: 1,534 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Car Washes: 783 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Towing & Repo: 426 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Marinas: 75 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: Cap Rate or 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Boat Dealerships: 71 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Manufacturing
9,737 related employer businesses in Illinois.
Metal Fabrication: 2,779 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.2x - 4.2x SDE.
Food & Beverage Manufacturing: 1,736 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.1x - 4.5x SDE.
Printing & Plastics: 1,704 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.9x - 4.9x SDE.
Medical & Chemical Manufacturing: 1,020 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Wood & Furniture Manufacturing: 893 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Electronics & Tech Manufacturing: 756 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.5x EBITDA.
Construction Materials Manufacturing: 568 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Textile & Apparel Manufacturing: 281 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Wholesale & Distribution
7,718 related employer businesses in Illinois.
Industrial & Construction Supply: 3,459 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Food & Beverage Distribution: 1,624 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Electronics, IT & Office Equipment Distribution: 1,183 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Chemicals, Plastics & Raw Materials Distribution: 511 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Packaging, Paper & JanSan Distribution: 441 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Consumer Goods & Apparel Distribution: 258 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Medical, Dental & Pharmaceutical Distribution: 242 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Beauty & Personal Care
5,743 related employer businesses in Illinois.
Hair Salons: 3,346 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.25x - 2.34x SDE.
Day Spas: 1,135 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE.
Tattoo Shops: 1,135 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Massage Parlors: 1,135 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Nail Salons: 968 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.4x - 1.88x SDE.
Barber Shops: 294 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.25x SDE.
Medical Spas. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Technology & Media
5,649 related employer businesses in Illinois.
Digital Marketing Agencies: 1,734 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Creative Agencies: 1,689 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 3.0x SDE.
Media, Film & Studio Production: 877 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.5x SDE.
Real Estate Media: 731 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.8x SDE.
Software Companies (SaaS): 618 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x SDE.
E-commerce & Online Brands. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Home Services
5,172 related employer businesses in Illinois.
Residential Cleaning: 2,520 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.6x SDE.
Commercial Cleaning: 2,520 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.47x - 4.11x EBITDA.
Property Management: 2,070 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Pest Control: 395 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.34x - 2.90x SDE.
Security Systems: 187 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.
Gas Stations & Convenience
4,664 related employer businesses in Illinois.
Gas Stations: 3,819 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Convenience Stores: 845 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.
Entertainment & Recreation
4,411 related employer businesses in Illinois.
Bars & Pubs: 2,939 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Clubs & Lounges: 2,939 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Outdoor Recreation: 743 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Golf Courses: 389 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 8.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Bowling Alleys: 182 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Arcades & FECs: 158 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.6x SDE.
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.
Education & Childcare
3,484 related employer businesses in Illinois.
Daycare Centers: 3,138 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.39x - 3.35x SDE.
Tutoring Centers: 346 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Preschools. Typical sale multiple: 3.12x - 4.0x SDE.
Pharmacies & Medical Supply
3,425 related employer businesses in Illinois.
Compounding Pharmacies: 1,374 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Specialty Pharmacies: 1,374 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Home Infusion: 1,213 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Durable Medical Equipment (DME): 468 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Medical Supply Retail: 370 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Hospitality & Travel
3,000 related employer businesses in Illinois.
Hotels: 1,474 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.6x - 5.1x EBITDA.
Motels: 1,474 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.1x - 2.5x SDE.
Transportation Services: 1,002 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.1x SDE.
Travel Agencies: 423 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.2x SDE.
Campgrounds & RV Parks: 71 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Bed & Breakfasts / Inns: 30 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Health & Fitness
2,463 related employer businesses in Illinois.
Gyms & Health Clubs: 1,621 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 2.93x SDE.
Yoga Studios: 1,621 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.07x - 2.50x SDE.
Pilates Studios: 1,621 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.10x - 3.00x SDE.
Personal Training Studios: 1,621 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.00x - 2.80x SDE.
Wellness & Recovery Centers: 842 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.5x - 9.7x EBITDA.
Senior Care & Living
1,789 related employer businesses in Illinois.
Non-Medical Home Care: 1,137 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Assisted Living Facilities: 415 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Senior Living Communities: 237 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Adult Day Services. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Energy & Utilities
1,636 related employer businesses in Illinois.
Waste Management & Recycling: 651 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Water & Wastewater Services: 449 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Propane & Fuel Distribution: 339 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Oil & Gas Services: 135 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Solar & Renewable Energy: 62 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Pet Services
1,388 related employer businesses in Illinois.
Pet Grooming & Spas: 1,021 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Boarding, Daycare & Training: 1,021 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Pet Retail & Specialty Supplies: 367 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
8 related employer businesses in Illinois.
Agricultural Labor Contracting: 8 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 Illinois. 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
32,636 related employer businesses in Illinois.
General Contracting: 9,565 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Landscaping: 5,034 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Interior Finishing: 4,734 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Plumbing: 4,070 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x SDE.
HVAC Services: 4,070 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.6x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Electrical: 2,689 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Foundation & Site Prep: 1,903 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Civil Engineering: 1,752 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 7.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Roofing & Siding: 1,503 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Masonry: 854 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Carpentry & Framing: 374 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Remediation & Restoration: 158 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Restaurants & Food
27,802 related employer businesses in Illinois.
Quick-Service & Fast Food: 10,622 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Full-Service Restaurants: 9,928 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Coffee Shops: 2,677 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Grocery Stores & Markets: 2,647 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Liquor, Wine & Beer Stores: 1,496 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Bakeries: 432 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Ghost Kitchens. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Medical Practices
23,151 related employer businesses in Illinois.
Primary & Family Care: 6,775 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE.
Dental Practices: 5,781 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Mental & Behavioral Health: 3,134 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Physical Therapy & Rehab: 2,545 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Home Health & Hospice: 1,213 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Veterinary Medicine: 1,159 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 9.0x EBITDA.
Vision & Eye Care: 868 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Specialty Medicine: 728 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Medical Labs & Imaging: 698 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Urgent Care Clinics: 250 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Financial & Professional Services
19,853 related employer businesses in Illinois.
Insurance Agencies: 5,679 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Accounting & Tax Practices: 5,146 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Real Estate Brokerages: 4,933 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x SDE.
Wealth Management: 3,030 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.7x - 4.0x Recurring Revenue.
Private Lending: 786 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Mortgage Brokerages: 279 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Logistics & Transportation
18,885 related employer businesses in Illinois.
General Freight Trucking: 15,020 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 3.45x SDE.
Freight Brokerage & 3PL: 1,274 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Warehousing & Fulfillment: 976 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Last-Mile & Courier: 594 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.76x - 3.32x SDE.
Heavy Haul Transport: 552 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x SDE.
Commercial Moving: 374 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 3.0x SDE.
NEMT & Passenger Transport: 95 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.1x SDE.
Port Drayage. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Retail Stores
13,885 related employer businesses in Illinois.
Fashion, Apparel & Jewelry: 4,388 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Health, Beauty & Pharmacy: 3,137 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.8x - 4.2x EBITDA.
Hardware, Garden & Building: 2,325 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE + Inventory.
Home Decor & Furniture: 1,556 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Electronics & Repair: 998 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Hobby, Toys & Gift Shops: 882 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE + Inventory.
Sporting Goods & Firearms: 599 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.4x SDE.
Automotive & Boat
11,176 related employer businesses in Illinois.
Auto Repair: 4,899 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE.
Auto Parts: 1,798 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Car Dealerships: 1,590 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2x - 8x Blue Sky + Assets.
Collision Repair: 1,534 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Car Washes: 783 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Towing & Repo: 426 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Marinas: 75 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: Cap Rate or 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Boat Dealerships: 71 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Manufacturing
9,737 related employer businesses in Illinois.
Metal Fabrication: 2,779 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.2x - 4.2x SDE.
Food & Beverage Manufacturing: 1,736 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.1x - 4.5x SDE.
Printing & Plastics: 1,704 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.9x - 4.9x SDE.
Medical & Chemical Manufacturing: 1,020 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Wood & Furniture Manufacturing: 893 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Electronics & Tech Manufacturing: 756 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.5x EBITDA.
Construction Materials Manufacturing: 568 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Textile & Apparel Manufacturing: 281 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Wholesale & Distribution
7,718 related employer businesses in Illinois.
Industrial & Construction Supply: 3,459 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Food & Beverage Distribution: 1,624 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Electronics, IT & Office Equipment Distribution: 1,183 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Chemicals, Plastics & Raw Materials Distribution: 511 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Packaging, Paper & JanSan Distribution: 441 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Consumer Goods & Apparel Distribution: 258 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Medical, Dental & Pharmaceutical Distribution: 242 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Beauty & Personal Care
5,743 related employer businesses in Illinois.
Hair Salons: 3,346 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.25x - 2.34x SDE.
Day Spas: 1,135 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE.
Tattoo Shops: 1,135 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Massage Parlors: 1,135 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Nail Salons: 968 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.4x - 1.88x SDE.
Barber Shops: 294 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.25x SDE.
Medical Spas. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Technology & Media
5,649 related employer businesses in Illinois.
Digital Marketing Agencies: 1,734 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Creative Agencies: 1,689 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 3.0x SDE.
Media, Film & Studio Production: 877 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.5x SDE.
Real Estate Media: 731 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.8x SDE.
Software Companies (SaaS): 618 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x SDE.
E-commerce & Online Brands. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Home Services
5,172 related employer businesses in Illinois.
Residential Cleaning: 2,520 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.6x SDE.
Commercial Cleaning: 2,520 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.47x - 4.11x EBITDA.
Property Management: 2,070 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Pest Control: 395 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.34x - 2.90x SDE.
Security Systems: 187 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.
Gas Stations & Convenience
4,664 related employer businesses in Illinois.
Gas Stations: 3,819 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Convenience Stores: 845 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.
Entertainment & Recreation
4,411 related employer businesses in Illinois.
Bars & Pubs: 2,939 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Clubs & Lounges: 2,939 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Outdoor Recreation: 743 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Golf Courses: 389 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 8.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Bowling Alleys: 182 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Arcades & FECs: 158 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.6x SDE.
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.
Education & Childcare
3,484 related employer businesses in Illinois.
Daycare Centers: 3,138 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.39x - 3.35x SDE.
Tutoring Centers: 346 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Preschools. Typical sale multiple: 3.12x - 4.0x SDE.
Pharmacies & Medical Supply
3,425 related employer businesses in Illinois.
Compounding Pharmacies: 1,374 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Specialty Pharmacies: 1,374 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Home Infusion: 1,213 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Durable Medical Equipment (DME): 468 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Medical Supply Retail: 370 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Hospitality & Travel
3,000 related employer businesses in Illinois.
Hotels: 1,474 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.6x - 5.1x EBITDA.
Motels: 1,474 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.1x - 2.5x SDE.
Transportation Services: 1,002 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.1x SDE.
Travel Agencies: 423 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.2x SDE.
Campgrounds & RV Parks: 71 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Bed & Breakfasts / Inns: 30 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Health & Fitness
2,463 related employer businesses in Illinois.
Gyms & Health Clubs: 1,621 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 2.93x SDE.
Yoga Studios: 1,621 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.07x - 2.50x SDE.
Pilates Studios: 1,621 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.10x - 3.00x SDE.
Personal Training Studios: 1,621 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.00x - 2.80x SDE.
Wellness & Recovery Centers: 842 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.5x - 9.7x EBITDA.
Senior Care & Living
1,789 related employer businesses in Illinois.
Non-Medical Home Care: 1,137 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Assisted Living Facilities: 415 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Senior Living Communities: 237 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Adult Day Services. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Energy & Utilities
1,636 related employer businesses in Illinois.
Waste Management & Recycling: 651 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Water & Wastewater Services: 449 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Propane & Fuel Distribution: 339 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Oil & Gas Services: 135 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Solar & Renewable Energy: 62 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Pet Services
1,388 related employer businesses in Illinois.
Pet Grooming & Spas: 1,021 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Boarding, Daycare & Training: 1,021 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Pet Retail & Specialty Supplies: 367 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
8 related employer businesses in Illinois.
Agricultural Labor Contracting: 8 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 Illinois
Business Advisors of America works with owners who are selling a business in Illinois. Contact us to talk about a sale.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Questions owners in Illinois ask
How long does it take to sell a business in Illinois?
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 Illinois?
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 Illinois
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