Selling a Business in Massachusetts
Selling a business in Massachusetts means pricing it correctly, preparing the records a buyer will ask for and finding a buyer who can pay and close. Massachusetts has 183,767 employer businesses and about 654,863 more with no employees. This page covers the numbers, the steps and what buyers look for.
LOCAL SNAPSHOT
Massachusetts by the numbers
183,767
183,767
EMPLOYER BUSINESSES
85%
85%
SMALL EMPLOYER SHARE
654,863
654,863
BUSINESSES WITH NO EMPLOYEES
3,487,228
3,487,228
EMPLOYMENT
$301.8 billion
$301.8 billion
ANNUAL PAYROLL
73,833
73,833
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 Massachusetts compares
Massachusetts ranks 14th among the 50 states and the District of Columbia for employer businesses.
The number of employer businesses grew 1.9% between 2018 and 2023.
Construction makes up 12% of employer businesses in Massachusetts, compared with 10% nationwide.
73,833 employer businesses here have 5 to 49 employees.
Massachusetts ranks 14th among the 50 states and the District of Columbia for employer businesses.
The number of employer businesses grew 1.9% between 2018 and 2023.
Construction makes up 12% of employer businesses in Massachusetts, compared with 10% nationwide.
73,833 employer businesses here have 5 to 49 employees.
How a sale works in Massachusetts
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 Massachusetts
Notice when assets are sold
Massachusetts law says that at least five days before a business corporation sells all or substantially all of its Massachusetts assets outside the ordinary course of business, the corporation or any person in interest shall notify the Commissioner of Revenue in writing. If no notice is given and the taxes are not paid, the state gets a lien, a legal claim, on the corporation's assets that can last up to three years. The Commissioner can waive the lien in writing. Source: Massachusetts General Laws chapter 62C, section 51
Sales tax and the buyer's liability
Massachusetts law says a buyer of a business shall withhold enough of the purchase price to cover the seller's unpaid sales and use tax until the seller produces a certificate from the Commissioner of Revenue. A buyer who does not withhold becomes personally liable for that amount, which is a form of successor liability, meaning the buyer becomes responsible for the seller's unpaid tax. Source: Massachusetts General Laws chapter 62C, section 44
Permits and registrations
Massachusetts law says tax registrations and licenses issued by the Department of Revenue, including sales tax vendor registrations, are not assignable. A buyer does not take over the seller's registration. Source: Massachusetts General Laws chapter 62C, section 67
Unemployment insurance account
Massachusetts law says that when an employer's entire business, or substantially all its assets, is transferred and the buyer continues the business, the buyer is a successor. Written notice of the transfer goes to the commissioner of the Department of Unemployment Assistance within 120 days. The successor takes over the seller's unemployment account and is secondarily liable, meaning liable if the seller does not pay, for amounts the seller owed at the time of transfer. Source: Massachusetts General Laws chapter 151A, section 14
These points come from official Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts
Notice when assets are sold
Massachusetts law says that at least five days before a business corporation sells all or substantially all of its Massachusetts assets outside the ordinary course of business, the corporation or any person in interest shall notify the Commissioner of Revenue in writing. If no notice is given and the taxes are not paid, the state gets a lien, a legal claim, on the corporation's assets that can last up to three years. The Commissioner can waive the lien in writing. Source: Massachusetts General Laws chapter 62C, section 51
Sales tax and the buyer's liability
Massachusetts law says a buyer of a business shall withhold enough of the purchase price to cover the seller's unpaid sales and use tax until the seller produces a certificate from the Commissioner of Revenue. A buyer who does not withhold becomes personally liable for that amount, which is a form of successor liability, meaning the buyer becomes responsible for the seller's unpaid tax. Source: Massachusetts General Laws chapter 62C, section 44
Permits and registrations
Massachusetts law says tax registrations and licenses issued by the Department of Revenue, including sales tax vendor registrations, are not assignable. A buyer does not take over the seller's registration. Source: Massachusetts General Laws chapter 62C, section 67
Unemployment insurance account
Massachusetts law says that when an employer's entire business, or substantially all its assets, is transferred and the buyer continues the business, the buyer is a successor. Written notice of the transfer goes to the commissioner of the Department of Unemployment Assistance within 120 days. The successor takes over the seller's unemployment account and is secondarily liable, meaning liable if the seller does not pay, for amounts the seller owed at the time of transfer. Source: Massachusetts General Laws chapter 151A, section 14
These points come from official Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts
Retail, professional and technical services, construction, health care and social assistance
Every kind of business we sell in Massachusetts
We sell businesses in every one of these industries in Massachusetts. 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
25,737 related employer businesses in Massachusetts.
General Contracting: 6,986 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Landscaping: 4,555 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Interior Finishing: 3,643 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Plumbing: 3,069 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x SDE.
HVAC Services: 3,069 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.6x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Electrical: 2,640 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Foundation & Site Prep: 1,577 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Civil Engineering: 1,463 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 7.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Roofing & Siding: 663 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Masonry: 629 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Carpentry & Framing: 336 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Remediation & Restoration: 176 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Restaurants & Food
17,734 related employer businesses in Massachusetts.
Full-Service Restaurants: 6,558 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Quick-Service & Fast Food: 5,337 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Coffee Shops: 2,667 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Liquor, Wine & Beer Stores: 1,501 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Grocery Stores & Markets: 1,348 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Bakeries: 323 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Ghost Kitchens. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Medical Practices
10,782 related employer businesses in Massachusetts.
Dental Practices: 3,188 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Primary & Family Care: 2,562 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE.
Mental & Behavioral Health: 1,241 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Physical Therapy & Rehab: 931 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Home Health & Hospice: 898 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Veterinary Medicine: 583 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 9.0x EBITDA.
Medical Labs & Imaging: 530 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Vision & Eye Care: 382 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Specialty Medicine: 320 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Urgent Care Clinics: 147 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Financial & Professional Services
9,284 related employer businesses in Massachusetts.
Accounting & Tax Practices: 2,555 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Real Estate Brokerages: 2,359 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x SDE.
Insurance Agencies: 2,065 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Wealth Management: 1,795 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.7x - 4.0x Recurring Revenue.
Private Lending: 354 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Mortgage Brokerages: 156 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Retail Stores
8,523 related employer businesses in Massachusetts.
Fashion, Apparel & Jewelry: 2,824 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Health, Beauty & Pharmacy: 1,701 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.8x - 4.2x EBITDA.
Hardware, Garden & Building: 1,515 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE + Inventory.
Home Decor & Furniture: 907 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Hobby, Toys & Gift Shops: 674 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE + Inventory.
Electronics & Repair: 479 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Sporting Goods & Firearms: 423 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.4x SDE.
Automotive & Boat
6,129 related employer businesses in Massachusetts.
Auto Repair: 2,224 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE.
Car Dealerships: 1,067 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2x - 8x Blue Sky + Assets.
Collision Repair: 1,007 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Auto Parts: 830 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Car Washes: 445 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Towing & Repo: 271 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Marinas: 176 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: Cap Rate or 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Boat Dealerships: 109 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Manufacturing
4,829 related employer businesses in Massachusetts.
Metal Fabrication: 1,101 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.2x - 4.2x SDE.
Food & Beverage Manufacturing: 914 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.1x - 4.5x SDE.
Electronics & Tech Manufacturing: 716 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.5x EBITDA.
Printing & Plastics: 645 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.9x - 4.9x SDE.
Medical & Chemical Manufacturing: 632 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Wood & Furniture Manufacturing: 386 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Construction Materials Manufacturing: 226 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Textile & Apparel Manufacturing: 209 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Beauty & Personal Care
4,582 related employer businesses in Massachusetts.
Hair Salons: 2,569 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.25x - 2.34x SDE.
Nail Salons: 1,100 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.4x - 1.88x SDE.
Day Spas: 749 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE.
Tattoo Shops: 749 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Massage Parlors: 749 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Barber Shops: 164 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.25x SDE.
Medical Spas. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Home Services
4,221 related employer businesses in Massachusetts.
Property Management: 2,078 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Residential Cleaning: 1,757 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.6x SDE.
Commercial Cleaning: 1,757 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.47x - 4.11x EBITDA.
Pest Control: 252 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.34x - 2.90x SDE.
Security Systems: 134 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
3,717 related employer businesses in Massachusetts.
Gas Stations: 1,967 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Convenience Stores: 1,750 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.
Logistics & Transportation
3,459 related employer businesses in Massachusetts.
General Freight Trucking: 2,089 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 3.45x SDE.
Warehousing & Fulfillment: 302 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Last-Mile & Courier: 286 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.76x - 3.32x SDE.
Freight Brokerage & 3PL: 260 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Commercial Moving: 251 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 3.0x SDE.
NEMT & Passenger Transport: 167 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.1x SDE.
Heavy Haul Transport: 104 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x SDE.
Port Drayage. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Wholesale & Distribution
3,322 related employer businesses in Massachusetts.
Industrial & Construction Supply: 1,099 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Food & Beverage Distribution: 835 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Electronics, IT & Office Equipment Distribution: 725 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Consumer Goods & Apparel Distribution: 186 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Chemicals, Plastics & Raw Materials Distribution: 176 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Packaging, Paper & JanSan Distribution: 152 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Medical, Dental & Pharmaceutical Distribution: 149 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Technology & Media
3,020 related employer businesses in Massachusetts.
Creative Agencies: 789 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 3.0x SDE.
Software Companies (SaaS): 756 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x SDE.
Digital Marketing Agencies: 743 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Media, Film & Studio Production: 442 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.5x SDE.
Real Estate Media: 290 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.8x SDE.
E-commerce & Online Brands. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Education & Childcare
2,559 related employer businesses in Massachusetts.
Daycare Centers: 2,309 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.39x - 3.35x SDE.
Tutoring Centers: 250 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Preschools. Typical sale multiple: 3.12x - 4.0x SDE.
Pharmacies & Medical Supply
2,153 related employer businesses in Massachusetts.
Home Infusion: 898 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Compounding Pharmacies: 845 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Specialty Pharmacies: 845 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Durable Medical Equipment (DME): 225 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Medical Supply Retail: 185 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Health & Fitness
2,123 related employer businesses in Massachusetts.
Gyms & Health Clubs: 1,230 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 2.93x SDE.
Yoga Studios: 1,230 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.07x - 2.50x SDE.
Pilates Studios: 1,230 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.10x - 3.00x SDE.
Personal Training Studios: 1,230 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.00x - 2.80x SDE.
Wellness & Recovery Centers: 893 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.5x - 9.7x EBITDA.
Hospitality & Travel
2,074 related employer businesses in Massachusetts.
Transportation Services: 878 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.1x SDE.
Hotels: 812 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.6x - 5.1x EBITDA.
Motels: 812 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.1x - 2.5x SDE.
Travel Agencies: 232 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.2x SDE.
Bed & Breakfasts / Inns: 104 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Campgrounds & RV Parks: 48 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Entertainment & Recreation
1,602 related employer businesses in Massachusetts.
Bars & Pubs: 604 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Clubs & Lounges: 604 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Outdoor Recreation: 587 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Golf Courses: 267 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 8.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Arcades & FECs: 78 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.6x SDE.
Bowling Alleys: 66 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
1,259 related employer businesses in Massachusetts.
Propane & Fuel Distribution: 471 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Waste Management & Recycling: 439 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Water & Wastewater Services: 283 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Solar & Renewable Energy: 35 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Oil & Gas Services: 31 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Senior Care & Living
1,196 related employer businesses in Massachusetts.
Non-Medical Home Care: 846 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Assisted Living Facilities: 246 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Senior Living Communities: 104 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Adult Day Services. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Pet Services
966 related employer businesses in Massachusetts.
Pet Grooming & Spas: 759 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Boarding, Daycare & Training: 759 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Pet Retail & Specialty Supplies: 207 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.
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.
Land & Agriculture
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.
We sell businesses in every one of these industries in Massachusetts. 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
25,737 related employer businesses in Massachusetts.
General Contracting: 6,986 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Landscaping: 4,555 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Interior Finishing: 3,643 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Plumbing: 3,069 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x SDE.
HVAC Services: 3,069 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.6x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Electrical: 2,640 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Foundation & Site Prep: 1,577 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Civil Engineering: 1,463 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 7.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Roofing & Siding: 663 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Masonry: 629 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Carpentry & Framing: 336 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Remediation & Restoration: 176 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Restaurants & Food
17,734 related employer businesses in Massachusetts.
Full-Service Restaurants: 6,558 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Quick-Service & Fast Food: 5,337 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Coffee Shops: 2,667 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Liquor, Wine & Beer Stores: 1,501 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Grocery Stores & Markets: 1,348 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Bakeries: 323 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Ghost Kitchens. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Medical Practices
10,782 related employer businesses in Massachusetts.
Dental Practices: 3,188 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Primary & Family Care: 2,562 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE.
Mental & Behavioral Health: 1,241 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Physical Therapy & Rehab: 931 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Home Health & Hospice: 898 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Veterinary Medicine: 583 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 9.0x EBITDA.
Medical Labs & Imaging: 530 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Vision & Eye Care: 382 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Specialty Medicine: 320 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Urgent Care Clinics: 147 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Financial & Professional Services
9,284 related employer businesses in Massachusetts.
Accounting & Tax Practices: 2,555 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Real Estate Brokerages: 2,359 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x SDE.
Insurance Agencies: 2,065 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Wealth Management: 1,795 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.7x - 4.0x Recurring Revenue.
Private Lending: 354 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Mortgage Brokerages: 156 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Retail Stores
8,523 related employer businesses in Massachusetts.
Fashion, Apparel & Jewelry: 2,824 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Health, Beauty & Pharmacy: 1,701 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.8x - 4.2x EBITDA.
Hardware, Garden & Building: 1,515 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE + Inventory.
Home Decor & Furniture: 907 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Hobby, Toys & Gift Shops: 674 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE + Inventory.
Electronics & Repair: 479 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Sporting Goods & Firearms: 423 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.4x SDE.
Automotive & Boat
6,129 related employer businesses in Massachusetts.
Auto Repair: 2,224 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE.
Car Dealerships: 1,067 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2x - 8x Blue Sky + Assets.
Collision Repair: 1,007 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Auto Parts: 830 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Car Washes: 445 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Towing & Repo: 271 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Marinas: 176 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: Cap Rate or 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Boat Dealerships: 109 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Manufacturing
4,829 related employer businesses in Massachusetts.
Metal Fabrication: 1,101 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.2x - 4.2x SDE.
Food & Beverage Manufacturing: 914 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.1x - 4.5x SDE.
Electronics & Tech Manufacturing: 716 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.5x EBITDA.
Printing & Plastics: 645 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.9x - 4.9x SDE.
Medical & Chemical Manufacturing: 632 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Wood & Furniture Manufacturing: 386 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Construction Materials Manufacturing: 226 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Textile & Apparel Manufacturing: 209 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Beauty & Personal Care
4,582 related employer businesses in Massachusetts.
Hair Salons: 2,569 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.25x - 2.34x SDE.
Nail Salons: 1,100 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.4x - 1.88x SDE.
Day Spas: 749 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE.
Tattoo Shops: 749 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Massage Parlors: 749 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Barber Shops: 164 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.25x SDE.
Medical Spas. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Home Services
4,221 related employer businesses in Massachusetts.
Property Management: 2,078 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Residential Cleaning: 1,757 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.6x SDE.
Commercial Cleaning: 1,757 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.47x - 4.11x EBITDA.
Pest Control: 252 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.34x - 2.90x SDE.
Security Systems: 134 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
3,717 related employer businesses in Massachusetts.
Gas Stations: 1,967 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Convenience Stores: 1,750 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.
Logistics & Transportation
3,459 related employer businesses in Massachusetts.
General Freight Trucking: 2,089 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 3.45x SDE.
Warehousing & Fulfillment: 302 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Last-Mile & Courier: 286 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.76x - 3.32x SDE.
Freight Brokerage & 3PL: 260 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Commercial Moving: 251 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 3.0x SDE.
NEMT & Passenger Transport: 167 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.1x SDE.
Heavy Haul Transport: 104 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x SDE.
Port Drayage. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Wholesale & Distribution
3,322 related employer businesses in Massachusetts.
Industrial & Construction Supply: 1,099 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Food & Beverage Distribution: 835 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Electronics, IT & Office Equipment Distribution: 725 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Consumer Goods & Apparel Distribution: 186 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Chemicals, Plastics & Raw Materials Distribution: 176 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Packaging, Paper & JanSan Distribution: 152 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Medical, Dental & Pharmaceutical Distribution: 149 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Technology & Media
3,020 related employer businesses in Massachusetts.
Creative Agencies: 789 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 3.0x SDE.
Software Companies (SaaS): 756 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x SDE.
Digital Marketing Agencies: 743 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Media, Film & Studio Production: 442 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.5x SDE.
Real Estate Media: 290 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.8x SDE.
E-commerce & Online Brands. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Education & Childcare
2,559 related employer businesses in Massachusetts.
Daycare Centers: 2,309 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.39x - 3.35x SDE.
Tutoring Centers: 250 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Preschools. Typical sale multiple: 3.12x - 4.0x SDE.
Pharmacies & Medical Supply
2,153 related employer businesses in Massachusetts.
Home Infusion: 898 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Compounding Pharmacies: 845 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Specialty Pharmacies: 845 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Durable Medical Equipment (DME): 225 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Medical Supply Retail: 185 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Health & Fitness
2,123 related employer businesses in Massachusetts.
Gyms & Health Clubs: 1,230 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 2.93x SDE.
Yoga Studios: 1,230 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.07x - 2.50x SDE.
Pilates Studios: 1,230 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.10x - 3.00x SDE.
Personal Training Studios: 1,230 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.00x - 2.80x SDE.
Wellness & Recovery Centers: 893 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.5x - 9.7x EBITDA.
Hospitality & Travel
2,074 related employer businesses in Massachusetts.
Transportation Services: 878 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.1x SDE.
Hotels: 812 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.6x - 5.1x EBITDA.
Motels: 812 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.1x - 2.5x SDE.
Travel Agencies: 232 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.2x SDE.
Bed & Breakfasts / Inns: 104 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Campgrounds & RV Parks: 48 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Entertainment & Recreation
1,602 related employer businesses in Massachusetts.
Bars & Pubs: 604 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Clubs & Lounges: 604 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Outdoor Recreation: 587 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Golf Courses: 267 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 8.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Arcades & FECs: 78 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.6x SDE.
Bowling Alleys: 66 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
1,259 related employer businesses in Massachusetts.
Propane & Fuel Distribution: 471 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Waste Management & Recycling: 439 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Water & Wastewater Services: 283 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Solar & Renewable Energy: 35 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Oil & Gas Services: 31 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Senior Care & Living
1,196 related employer businesses in Massachusetts.
Non-Medical Home Care: 846 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Assisted Living Facilities: 246 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Senior Living Communities: 104 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Adult Day Services. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Pet Services
966 related employer businesses in Massachusetts.
Pet Grooming & Spas: 759 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Boarding, Daycare & Training: 759 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Pet Retail & Specialty Supplies: 207 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.
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.
Land & Agriculture
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.
Metro areas in this state
Counties
Working with owners in Massachusetts
Business Advisors of America works with owners who are selling a business in Massachusetts. Contact us to talk about a sale.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Questions owners in Massachusetts ask
How long does it take to sell a business in Massachusetts?
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 Massachusetts?
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 Massachusetts
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