Selling a Business in Maryland
Selling a business in Maryland means pricing it correctly, preparing the records a buyer will ask for and finding a buyer who can pay and close. Maryland has 142,967 employer businesses and about 620,896 more with no employees. This page covers the numbers, the steps and what buyers look for.
LOCAL SNAPSHOT
Maryland by the numbers
142,967
142,967
EMPLOYER BUSINESSES
84%
84%
SMALL EMPLOYER SHARE
620,896
620,896
BUSINESSES WITH NO EMPLOYEES
2,468,367
2,468,367
EMPLOYMENT
$168.1 billion
$168.1 billion
ANNUAL PAYROLL
57,087
57,087
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 Maryland compares
Maryland ranks 22nd among the 50 states and the District of Columbia for employer businesses.
The number of employer businesses grew 2.5% between 2018 and 2023.
Professional and technical services makes up 15% of employer businesses in Maryland, compared with 12% nationwide.
57,087 employer businesses here have 5 to 49 employees.
Maryland ranks 22nd among the 50 states and the District of Columbia for employer businesses.
The number of employer businesses grew 2.5% between 2018 and 2023.
Professional and technical services makes up 15% of employer businesses in Maryland, compared with 12% nationwide.
57,087 employer businesses here have 5 to 49 employees.
How a sale works in Maryland
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 Maryland
Notice when assets are sold
Maryland still has a bulk transfer law in its Commercial Law Article, covering a sale of a major part of a business's inventory outside the ordinary course of business. Maryland's tax law says the buyer or auctioneer in a bulk transfer shall mail the Comptroller the notice to creditors, whether or not the seller lists the Comptroller as a creditor. If the Comptroller files a claim for the seller's sales and use tax, the buyer withholds that amount from what is paid to the seller. Source: Maryland General Assembly statute text, Tax-General 11-505
Sales tax and the buyer's liability
Maryland law says that if a buyer in a bulk transfer does not file the notice with the Comptroller, or does not hold back enough of the price to cover the Comptroller's claim, the purchase price is subject to a first priority lien for the seller's sales and use tax. The buyer also becomes personally liable for that tax, with interest and penalties, which is called successor liability. Source: Maryland General Assembly statute text, Tax-General 13-802
Unemployment insurance account
Maryland law defines a successor employer as one that acquires, by sale or otherwise, all or part of the assets or business of another employer. A buyer that had no employees in Maryland before and has no common ownership with the seller is treated as a new employer and gets a new employer rate. A buyer that already had employees keeps its own rate through December 31, and from the next January 1 its rate combines its own experience with the share of the seller's payroll and benefit charges it acquired. Source: Maryland General Assembly statute text, Labor and Employment 8-613
These points come from official Maryland 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 Maryland
Notice when assets are sold
Maryland still has a bulk transfer law in its Commercial Law Article, covering a sale of a major part of a business's inventory outside the ordinary course of business. Maryland's tax law says the buyer or auctioneer in a bulk transfer shall mail the Comptroller the notice to creditors, whether or not the seller lists the Comptroller as a creditor. If the Comptroller files a claim for the seller's sales and use tax, the buyer withholds that amount from what is paid to the seller. Source: Maryland General Assembly statute text, Tax-General 11-505
Sales tax and the buyer's liability
Maryland law says that if a buyer in a bulk transfer does not file the notice with the Comptroller, or does not hold back enough of the price to cover the Comptroller's claim, the purchase price is subject to a first priority lien for the seller's sales and use tax. The buyer also becomes personally liable for that tax, with interest and penalties, which is called successor liability. Source: Maryland General Assembly statute text, Tax-General 13-802
Unemployment insurance account
Maryland law defines a successor employer as one that acquires, by sale or otherwise, all or part of the assets or business of another employer. A buyer that had no employees in Maryland before and has no common ownership with the seller is treated as a new employer and gets a new employer rate. A buyer that already had employees keeps its own rate through December 31, and from the next January 1 its rate combines its own experience with the share of the seller's payroll and benefit charges it acquired. Source: Maryland General Assembly statute text, Labor and Employment 8-613
These points come from official Maryland 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 Maryland
Professional and technical services, health care and social assistance, retail, repair, personal care and other services
Every kind of business we sell in Maryland
We sell businesses in every one of these industries in Maryland. 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
15,940 related employer businesses in Maryland.
General Contracting: 4,872 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Interior Finishing: 2,192 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Landscaping: 2,052 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Plumbing: 1,986 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x SDE.
HVAC Services: 1,986 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.6x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Civil Engineering: 1,493 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 7.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Electrical: 1,444 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Foundation & Site Prep: 846 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Roofing & Siding: 452 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Masonry: 344 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Carpentry & Framing: 163 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Remediation & Restoration: 96 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Restaurants & Food
13,047 related employer businesses in Maryland.
Quick-Service & Fast Food: 5,487 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Full-Service Restaurants: 3,803 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Liquor, Wine & Beer Stores: 1,282 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Grocery Stores & Markets: 1,256 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Coffee Shops: 1,078 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Bakeries: 141 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Ghost Kitchens. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Medical Practices
11,485 related employer businesses in Maryland.
Primary & Family Care: 3,756 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE.
Dental Practices: 2,561 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Mental & Behavioral Health: 1,399 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Physical Therapy & Rehab: 1,030 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Home Health & Hospice: 750 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Veterinary Medicine: 576 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 9.0x EBITDA.
Medical Labs & Imaging: 558 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Specialty Medicine: 335 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Vision & Eye Care: 295 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Urgent Care Clinics: 225 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Financial & Professional Services
8,314 related employer businesses in Maryland.
Accounting & Tax Practices: 2,476 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Real Estate Brokerages: 2,264 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x SDE.
Insurance Agencies: 1,855 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Wealth Management: 1,070 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.7x - 4.0x Recurring Revenue.
Private Lending: 486 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Mortgage Brokerages: 163 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Retail Stores
6,611 related employer businesses in Maryland.
Fashion, Apparel & Jewelry: 2,143 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Health, Beauty & Pharmacy: 1,626 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.8x - 4.2x EBITDA.
Hardware, Garden & Building: 979 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE + Inventory.
Home Decor & Furniture: 771 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Electronics & Repair: 443 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Hobby, Toys & Gift Shops: 387 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE + Inventory.
Sporting Goods & Firearms: 262 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.4x SDE.
Automotive & Boat
4,592 related employer businesses in Maryland.
Auto Repair: 1,994 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE.
Auto Parts: 699 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Car Dealerships: 602 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2x - 8x Blue Sky + Assets.
Collision Repair: 533 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Car Washes: 288 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Towing & Repo: 205 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Marinas: 166 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: Cap Rate or 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Boat Dealerships: 105 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Home Services
3,364 related employer businesses in Maryland.
Property Management: 1,538 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Residential Cleaning: 1,436 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.6x SDE.
Commercial Cleaning: 1,436 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.47x - 4.11x EBITDA.
Pest Control: 223 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.34x - 2.90x SDE.
Security Systems: 167 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.
Logistics & Transportation
3,178 related employer businesses in Maryland.
General Freight Trucking: 2,016 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 3.45x SDE.
Last-Mile & Courier: 316 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.76x - 3.32x SDE.
Warehousing & Fulfillment: 307 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Freight Brokerage & 3PL: 217 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Commercial Moving: 181 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 3.0x SDE.
Heavy Haul Transport: 99 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x SDE.
NEMT & Passenger Transport: 42 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.1x SDE.
Port Drayage. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Beauty & Personal Care
2,649 related employer businesses in Maryland.
Hair Salons: 1,481 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.25x - 2.34x SDE.
Nail Salons: 591 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.4x - 1.88x SDE.
Day Spas: 448 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE.
Tattoo Shops: 448 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Massage Parlors: 448 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Barber Shops: 129 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.25x SDE.
Medical Spas. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Wholesale & Distribution
2,424 related employer businesses in Maryland.
Industrial & Construction Supply: 888 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Food & Beverage Distribution: 643 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Electronics, IT & Office Equipment Distribution: 465 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Chemicals, Plastics & Raw Materials Distribution: 119 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Medical, Dental & Pharmaceutical Distribution: 108 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Packaging, Paper & JanSan Distribution: 104 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Consumer Goods & Apparel Distribution: 97 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Manufacturing
2,403 related employer businesses in Maryland.
Food & Beverage Manufacturing: 574 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.1x - 4.5x SDE.
Metal Fabrication: 390 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.2x - 4.2x SDE.
Printing & Plastics: 387 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.9x - 4.9x SDE.
Wood & Furniture Manufacturing: 268 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Medical & Chemical Manufacturing: 254 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Electronics & Tech Manufacturing: 220 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.5x EBITDA.
Construction Materials Manufacturing: 168 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Textile & Apparel Manufacturing: 142 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Gas Stations & Convenience
2,225 related employer businesses in Maryland.
Gas Stations: 1,388 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Convenience Stores: 837 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.
Technology & Media
2,069 related employer businesses in Maryland.
Digital Marketing Agencies: 603 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Creative Agencies: 597 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 3.0x SDE.
Media, Film & Studio Production: 352 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.5x SDE.
Software Companies (SaaS): 270 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x SDE.
Real Estate Media: 247 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.8x SDE.
E-commerce & Online Brands. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Pharmacies & Medical Supply
1,823 related employer businesses in Maryland.
Compounding Pharmacies: 758 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Specialty Pharmacies: 758 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Home Infusion: 750 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Medical Supply Retail: 158 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Durable Medical Equipment (DME): 157 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Education & Childcare
1,697 related employer businesses in Maryland.
Daycare Centers: 1,505 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.39x - 3.35x SDE.
Tutoring Centers: 192 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Preschools. Typical sale multiple: 3.12x - 4.0x SDE.
Health & Fitness
1,508 related employer businesses in Maryland.
Wellness & Recovery Centers: 804 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.5x - 9.7x EBITDA.
Gyms & Health Clubs: 704 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 2.93x SDE.
Yoga Studios: 704 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.07x - 2.50x SDE.
Pilates Studios: 704 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.10x - 3.00x SDE.
Personal Training Studios: 704 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.00x - 2.80x SDE.
Hospitality & Travel
1,460 related employer businesses in Maryland.
Hotels: 679 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.6x - 5.1x EBITDA.
Motels: 679 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.1x - 2.5x SDE.
Transportation Services: 571 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.1x SDE.
Travel Agencies: 149 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.2x SDE.
Bed & Breakfasts / Inns: 33 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Campgrounds & RV Parks: 28 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Senior Care & Living
1,144 related employer businesses in Maryland.
Non-Medical Home Care: 636 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Assisted Living Facilities: 351 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Senior Living Communities: 157 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Adult Day Services. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Entertainment & Recreation
1,037 related employer businesses in Maryland.
Bars & Pubs: 420 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Clubs & Lounges: 420 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Outdoor Recreation: 385 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Golf Courses: 116 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 8.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Arcades & FECs: 66 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.6x SDE.
Bowling Alleys: 50 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
739 related employer businesses in Maryland.
Waste Management & Recycling: 319 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Water & Wastewater Services: 191 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Propane & Fuel Distribution: 182 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Oil & Gas Services: 24 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Solar & Renewable Energy: 23 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Pet Services
552 related employer businesses in Maryland.
Pet Grooming & Spas: 412 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Boarding, Daycare & Training: 412 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Pet Retail & Specialty Supplies: 140 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
4 related employer businesses in Maryland.
Agricultural Labor Contracting: 4 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 Maryland. 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
15,940 related employer businesses in Maryland.
General Contracting: 4,872 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Interior Finishing: 2,192 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Landscaping: 2,052 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Plumbing: 1,986 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x SDE.
HVAC Services: 1,986 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.6x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Civil Engineering: 1,493 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 7.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Electrical: 1,444 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Foundation & Site Prep: 846 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Roofing & Siding: 452 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Masonry: 344 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Carpentry & Framing: 163 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Remediation & Restoration: 96 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Restaurants & Food
13,047 related employer businesses in Maryland.
Quick-Service & Fast Food: 5,487 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Full-Service Restaurants: 3,803 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Liquor, Wine & Beer Stores: 1,282 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Grocery Stores & Markets: 1,256 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Coffee Shops: 1,078 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Bakeries: 141 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Ghost Kitchens. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Medical Practices
11,485 related employer businesses in Maryland.
Primary & Family Care: 3,756 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE.
Dental Practices: 2,561 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Mental & Behavioral Health: 1,399 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Physical Therapy & Rehab: 1,030 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Home Health & Hospice: 750 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Veterinary Medicine: 576 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 9.0x EBITDA.
Medical Labs & Imaging: 558 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Specialty Medicine: 335 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Vision & Eye Care: 295 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Urgent Care Clinics: 225 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Financial & Professional Services
8,314 related employer businesses in Maryland.
Accounting & Tax Practices: 2,476 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Real Estate Brokerages: 2,264 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x SDE.
Insurance Agencies: 1,855 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Wealth Management: 1,070 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.7x - 4.0x Recurring Revenue.
Private Lending: 486 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Mortgage Brokerages: 163 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Retail Stores
6,611 related employer businesses in Maryland.
Fashion, Apparel & Jewelry: 2,143 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Health, Beauty & Pharmacy: 1,626 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.8x - 4.2x EBITDA.
Hardware, Garden & Building: 979 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE + Inventory.
Home Decor & Furniture: 771 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Electronics & Repair: 443 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Hobby, Toys & Gift Shops: 387 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE + Inventory.
Sporting Goods & Firearms: 262 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.4x SDE.
Automotive & Boat
4,592 related employer businesses in Maryland.
Auto Repair: 1,994 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE.
Auto Parts: 699 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Car Dealerships: 602 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2x - 8x Blue Sky + Assets.
Collision Repair: 533 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Car Washes: 288 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Towing & Repo: 205 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Marinas: 166 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: Cap Rate or 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Boat Dealerships: 105 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Home Services
3,364 related employer businesses in Maryland.
Property Management: 1,538 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Residential Cleaning: 1,436 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.6x SDE.
Commercial Cleaning: 1,436 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.47x - 4.11x EBITDA.
Pest Control: 223 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.34x - 2.90x SDE.
Security Systems: 167 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.
Logistics & Transportation
3,178 related employer businesses in Maryland.
General Freight Trucking: 2,016 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 3.45x SDE.
Last-Mile & Courier: 316 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.76x - 3.32x SDE.
Warehousing & Fulfillment: 307 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Freight Brokerage & 3PL: 217 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Commercial Moving: 181 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 3.0x SDE.
Heavy Haul Transport: 99 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x SDE.
NEMT & Passenger Transport: 42 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.1x SDE.
Port Drayage. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Beauty & Personal Care
2,649 related employer businesses in Maryland.
Hair Salons: 1,481 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.25x - 2.34x SDE.
Nail Salons: 591 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.4x - 1.88x SDE.
Day Spas: 448 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE.
Tattoo Shops: 448 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Massage Parlors: 448 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Barber Shops: 129 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.25x SDE.
Medical Spas. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Wholesale & Distribution
2,424 related employer businesses in Maryland.
Industrial & Construction Supply: 888 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Food & Beverage Distribution: 643 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Electronics, IT & Office Equipment Distribution: 465 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Chemicals, Plastics & Raw Materials Distribution: 119 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Medical, Dental & Pharmaceutical Distribution: 108 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Packaging, Paper & JanSan Distribution: 104 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Consumer Goods & Apparel Distribution: 97 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Manufacturing
2,403 related employer businesses in Maryland.
Food & Beverage Manufacturing: 574 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.1x - 4.5x SDE.
Metal Fabrication: 390 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.2x - 4.2x SDE.
Printing & Plastics: 387 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.9x - 4.9x SDE.
Wood & Furniture Manufacturing: 268 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Medical & Chemical Manufacturing: 254 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Electronics & Tech Manufacturing: 220 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.5x EBITDA.
Construction Materials Manufacturing: 168 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Textile & Apparel Manufacturing: 142 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Gas Stations & Convenience
2,225 related employer businesses in Maryland.
Gas Stations: 1,388 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Convenience Stores: 837 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.
Technology & Media
2,069 related employer businesses in Maryland.
Digital Marketing Agencies: 603 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Creative Agencies: 597 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 3.0x SDE.
Media, Film & Studio Production: 352 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.5x SDE.
Software Companies (SaaS): 270 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x SDE.
Real Estate Media: 247 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.8x SDE.
E-commerce & Online Brands. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Pharmacies & Medical Supply
1,823 related employer businesses in Maryland.
Compounding Pharmacies: 758 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Specialty Pharmacies: 758 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Home Infusion: 750 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Medical Supply Retail: 158 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Durable Medical Equipment (DME): 157 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Education & Childcare
1,697 related employer businesses in Maryland.
Daycare Centers: 1,505 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.39x - 3.35x SDE.
Tutoring Centers: 192 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Preschools. Typical sale multiple: 3.12x - 4.0x SDE.
Health & Fitness
1,508 related employer businesses in Maryland.
Wellness & Recovery Centers: 804 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.5x - 9.7x EBITDA.
Gyms & Health Clubs: 704 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 2.93x SDE.
Yoga Studios: 704 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.07x - 2.50x SDE.
Pilates Studios: 704 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.10x - 3.00x SDE.
Personal Training Studios: 704 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.00x - 2.80x SDE.
Hospitality & Travel
1,460 related employer businesses in Maryland.
Hotels: 679 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.6x - 5.1x EBITDA.
Motels: 679 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.1x - 2.5x SDE.
Transportation Services: 571 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.1x SDE.
Travel Agencies: 149 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.2x SDE.
Bed & Breakfasts / Inns: 33 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Campgrounds & RV Parks: 28 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Senior Care & Living
1,144 related employer businesses in Maryland.
Non-Medical Home Care: 636 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Assisted Living Facilities: 351 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Senior Living Communities: 157 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Adult Day Services. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Entertainment & Recreation
1,037 related employer businesses in Maryland.
Bars & Pubs: 420 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Clubs & Lounges: 420 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Outdoor Recreation: 385 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Golf Courses: 116 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 8.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Arcades & FECs: 66 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.6x SDE.
Bowling Alleys: 50 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
739 related employer businesses in Maryland.
Waste Management & Recycling: 319 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Water & Wastewater Services: 191 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Propane & Fuel Distribution: 182 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Oil & Gas Services: 24 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Solar & Renewable Energy: 23 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Pet Services
552 related employer businesses in Maryland.
Pet Grooming & Spas: 412 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Boarding, Daycare & Training: 412 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Pet Retail & Specialty Supplies: 140 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
4 related employer businesses in Maryland.
Agricultural Labor Contracting: 4 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 Maryland
Business Advisors of America works with owners who are selling a business in Maryland. Contact us to talk about a sale.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Questions owners in Maryland ask
How long does it take to sell a business in Maryland?
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 Maryland?
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 Maryland
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