Selling a Business in Chicago
Owners in the Chicago area sell to local buyers and to buyers from other markets. The area has 248,519 employer businesses, and 85% of them have fewer than 20 employees. This page shows what is here and how a sale is handled.
LOCAL SNAPSHOT
Chicago by the numbers
248,519
248,519
EMPLOYER BUSINESSES
85%
85%
SMALL EMPLOYER SHARE
955,302
955,302
BUSINESSES WITH NO EMPLOYEES
4,285,971
4,285,971
EMPLOYMENT
$331.9 billion
$331.9 billion
ANNUAL PAYROLL
87,828
87,828
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 Chicago compares
The Chicago area ranks 1st of 8 Illinois metro areas for employer businesses.
The number of employer businesses grew 1.6% between 2018 and 2023.
Professional and technical services makes up 13% of employer businesses in Chicago, compared with 12% in Illinois.
87,828 employer businesses here have 5 to 49 employees.
The Chicago area ranks 1st of 8 Illinois metro areas for employer businesses.
The number of employer businesses grew 1.6% between 2018 and 2023.
Professional and technical services makes up 13% of employer businesses in Chicago, compared with 12% in Illinois.
87,828 employer businesses here have 5 to 49 employees.
Industry mix
The largest industries by number of employer businesses:
Professional and technical services: 32,828 employer businesses
Health care and social assistance: 29,768 employer businesses
Retail: 25,308 employer businesses
Repair, personal care and other services: 23,392 employer businesses
Construction: 22,707 employer businesses
The largest industries by number of employer businesses:
Professional and technical services: 32,828 employer businesses
Health care and social assistance: 29,768 employer businesses
Retail: 25,308 employer businesses
Repair, personal care and other services: 23,392 employer businesses
Construction: 22,707 employer businesses
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 Chicago
Professional and technical services, health care and social assistance, retail, repair, personal care and other services
Every kind of business we sell in Chicago
We sell businesses in every one of these industries in Chicago. 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
25,359 related employer businesses in Chicago.
General Contracting: 7,760 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Interior Finishing: 3,964 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Landscaping: 3,803 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Plumbing: 3,042 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x SDE.
HVAC Services: 3,042 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.6x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Electrical: 2,079 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Civil Engineering: 1,434 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 7.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Roofing & Siding: 1,135 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Foundation & Site Prep: 1,049 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Masonry: 691 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Carpentry & Framing: 278 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Remediation & Restoration: 124 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Restaurants & Food
21,357 related employer businesses in Chicago.
Quick-Service & Fast Food: 8,179 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Full-Service Restaurants: 7,371 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Coffee Shops: 2,197 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Grocery Stores & Markets: 2,073 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Liquor, Wine & Beer Stores: 1,173 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Bakeries: 364 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Ghost Kitchens. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Medical Practices
19,392 related employer businesses in Chicago.
Primary & Family Care: 5,693 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE.
Dental Practices: 4,881 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Mental & Behavioral Health: 2,753 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Physical Therapy & Rehab: 2,101 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Home Health & Hospice: 1,101 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Veterinary Medicine: 738 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 9.0x EBITDA.
Specialty Medicine: 676 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Vision & Eye Care: 650 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Medical Labs & Imaging: 601 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Urgent Care Clinics: 198 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Logistics & Transportation
16,166 related employer businesses in Chicago.
General Freight Trucking: 12,968 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 3.45x SDE.
Freight Brokerage & 3PL: 1,165 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Warehousing & Fulfillment: 727 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Last-Mile & Courier: 490 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.76x - 3.32x SDE.
Heavy Haul Transport: 405 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x SDE.
Commercial Moving: 330 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 3.0x SDE.
NEMT & Passenger Transport: 81 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.1x SDE.
Port Drayage. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Financial & Professional Services
15,517 related employer businesses in Chicago.
Real Estate Brokerages: 4,252 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x SDE.
Accounting & Tax Practices: 4,171 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Insurance Agencies: 3,944 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Wealth Management: 2,356 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.7x - 4.0x Recurring Revenue.
Private Lending: 531 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Mortgage Brokerages: 263 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Retail Stores
10,263 related employer businesses in Chicago.
Fashion, Apparel & Jewelry: 3,517 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Health, Beauty & Pharmacy: 2,372 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.8x - 4.2x EBITDA.
Hardware, Garden & Building: 1,398 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE + Inventory.
Home Decor & Furniture: 1,143 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Electronics & Repair: 774 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Hobby, Toys & Gift Shops: 620 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE + Inventory.
Sporting Goods & Firearms: 439 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.4x SDE.
Automotive & Boat
7,963 related employer businesses in Chicago.
Auto Repair: 3,665 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE.
Auto Parts: 1,209 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Car Dealerships: 1,073 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2x - 8x Blue Sky + Assets.
Collision Repair: 1,046 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Car Washes: 547 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Towing & Repo: 331 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Marinas: 51 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: Cap Rate or 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Boat Dealerships: 41 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Manufacturing
7,307 related employer businesses in Chicago.
Metal Fabrication: 2,032 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.2x - 4.2x SDE.
Printing & Plastics: 1,374 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.9x - 4.9x SDE.
Food & Beverage Manufacturing: 1,275 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.1x - 4.5x SDE.
Medical & Chemical Manufacturing: 821 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Electronics & Tech Manufacturing: 649 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.5x EBITDA.
Wood & Furniture Manufacturing: 586 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Construction Materials Manufacturing: 345 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Textile & Apparel Manufacturing: 225 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Wholesale & Distribution
6,225 related employer businesses in Chicago.
Industrial & Construction Supply: 2,598 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Food & Beverage Distribution: 1,353 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Electronics, IT & Office Equipment Distribution: 1,040 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Chemicals, Plastics & Raw Materials Distribution: 412 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Packaging, Paper & JanSan Distribution: 380 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Consumer Goods & Apparel Distribution: 245 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Medical, Dental & Pharmaceutical Distribution: 197 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Technology & Media
5,057 related employer businesses in Chicago.
Digital Marketing Agencies: 1,571 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Creative Agencies: 1,567 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 3.0x SDE.
Media, Film & Studio Production: 773 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.5x SDE.
Real Estate Media: 611 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.8x SDE.
Software Companies (SaaS): 535 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x SDE.
E-commerce & Online Brands. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Beauty & Personal Care
5,030 related employer businesses in Chicago.
Hair Salons: 2,935 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.25x - 2.34x SDE.
Day Spas: 967 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE.
Tattoo Shops: 967 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Massage Parlors: 967 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Nail Salons: 857 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.4x - 1.88x SDE.
Barber Shops: 271 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.25x SDE.
Medical Spas. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Home Services
4,242 related employer businesses in Chicago.
Residential Cleaning: 2,041 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.6x SDE.
Commercial Cleaning: 2,041 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.47x - 4.11x EBITDA.
Property Management: 1,801 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Pest Control: 243 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.34x - 2.90x SDE.
Security Systems: 157 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.
Education & Childcare
2,910 related employer businesses in Chicago.
Daycare Centers: 2,588 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.39x - 3.35x SDE.
Tutoring Centers: 322 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Preschools. Typical sale multiple: 3.12x - 4.0x SDE.
Gas Stations & Convenience
2,908 related employer businesses in Chicago.
Gas Stations: 2,262 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Convenience Stores: 646 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.
Pharmacies & Medical Supply
2,714 related employer businesses in Chicago.
Home Infusion: 1,101 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Compounding Pharmacies: 991 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Specialty Pharmacies: 991 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Durable Medical Equipment (DME): 393 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Medical Supply Retail: 229 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Entertainment & Recreation
2,427 related employer businesses in Chicago.
Bars & Pubs: 1,496 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Clubs & Lounges: 1,496 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Outdoor Recreation: 524 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Golf Courses: 191 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 8.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Arcades & FECs: 113 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.6x SDE.
Bowling Alleys: 103 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.
Hospitality & Travel
2,134 related employer businesses in Chicago.
Hotels: 893 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.6x - 5.1x EBITDA.
Motels: 893 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.1x - 2.5x SDE.
Transportation Services: 844 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.1x SDE.
Travel Agencies: 362 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.2x SDE.
Campgrounds & RV Parks: 22 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Bed & Breakfasts / Inns: 13 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Health & Fitness
1,909 related employer businesses in Chicago.
Gyms & Health Clubs: 1,285 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 2.93x SDE.
Yoga Studios: 1,285 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.07x - 2.50x SDE.
Pilates Studios: 1,285 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.10x - 3.00x SDE.
Personal Training Studios: 1,285 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.00x - 2.80x SDE.
Wellness & Recovery Centers: 624 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.5x - 9.7x EBITDA.
Senior Care & Living
1,265 related employer businesses in Chicago.
Non-Medical Home Care: 855 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Assisted Living Facilities: 250 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Senior Living Communities: 160 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
1,061 related employer businesses in Chicago.
Pet Grooming & Spas: 755 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Boarding, Daycare & Training: 755 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Pet Retail & Specialty Supplies: 306 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.
Energy & Utilities
917 related employer businesses in Chicago.
Waste Management & Recycling: 438 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Water & Wastewater Services: 264 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Propane & Fuel Distribution: 155 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Oil & Gas Services: 30 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Solar & Renewable Energy: 30 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 6.0x EBITDA.
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 Chicago. 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
25,359 related employer businesses in Chicago.
General Contracting: 7,760 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Interior Finishing: 3,964 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Landscaping: 3,803 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Plumbing: 3,042 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x SDE.
HVAC Services: 3,042 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.6x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Electrical: 2,079 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Civil Engineering: 1,434 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 7.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Roofing & Siding: 1,135 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Foundation & Site Prep: 1,049 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Masonry: 691 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Carpentry & Framing: 278 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Remediation & Restoration: 124 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Restaurants & Food
21,357 related employer businesses in Chicago.
Quick-Service & Fast Food: 8,179 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Full-Service Restaurants: 7,371 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Coffee Shops: 2,197 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Grocery Stores & Markets: 2,073 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Liquor, Wine & Beer Stores: 1,173 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Bakeries: 364 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Ghost Kitchens. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Medical Practices
19,392 related employer businesses in Chicago.
Primary & Family Care: 5,693 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE.
Dental Practices: 4,881 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Mental & Behavioral Health: 2,753 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Physical Therapy & Rehab: 2,101 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Home Health & Hospice: 1,101 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Veterinary Medicine: 738 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 9.0x EBITDA.
Specialty Medicine: 676 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Vision & Eye Care: 650 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Medical Labs & Imaging: 601 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Urgent Care Clinics: 198 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Logistics & Transportation
16,166 related employer businesses in Chicago.
General Freight Trucking: 12,968 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 3.45x SDE.
Freight Brokerage & 3PL: 1,165 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Warehousing & Fulfillment: 727 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Last-Mile & Courier: 490 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.76x - 3.32x SDE.
Heavy Haul Transport: 405 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x SDE.
Commercial Moving: 330 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 3.0x SDE.
NEMT & Passenger Transport: 81 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.1x SDE.
Port Drayage. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Financial & Professional Services
15,517 related employer businesses in Chicago.
Real Estate Brokerages: 4,252 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x SDE.
Accounting & Tax Practices: 4,171 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Insurance Agencies: 3,944 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Wealth Management: 2,356 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.7x - 4.0x Recurring Revenue.
Private Lending: 531 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Mortgage Brokerages: 263 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Retail Stores
10,263 related employer businesses in Chicago.
Fashion, Apparel & Jewelry: 3,517 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Health, Beauty & Pharmacy: 2,372 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.8x - 4.2x EBITDA.
Hardware, Garden & Building: 1,398 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE + Inventory.
Home Decor & Furniture: 1,143 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Electronics & Repair: 774 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Hobby, Toys & Gift Shops: 620 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE + Inventory.
Sporting Goods & Firearms: 439 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.4x SDE.
Automotive & Boat
7,963 related employer businesses in Chicago.
Auto Repair: 3,665 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE.
Auto Parts: 1,209 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Car Dealerships: 1,073 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2x - 8x Blue Sky + Assets.
Collision Repair: 1,046 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Car Washes: 547 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Towing & Repo: 331 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Marinas: 51 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: Cap Rate or 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Boat Dealerships: 41 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Manufacturing
7,307 related employer businesses in Chicago.
Metal Fabrication: 2,032 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.2x - 4.2x SDE.
Printing & Plastics: 1,374 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.9x - 4.9x SDE.
Food & Beverage Manufacturing: 1,275 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.1x - 4.5x SDE.
Medical & Chemical Manufacturing: 821 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Electronics & Tech Manufacturing: 649 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.5x EBITDA.
Wood & Furniture Manufacturing: 586 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Construction Materials Manufacturing: 345 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Textile & Apparel Manufacturing: 225 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Wholesale & Distribution
6,225 related employer businesses in Chicago.
Industrial & Construction Supply: 2,598 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Food & Beverage Distribution: 1,353 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Electronics, IT & Office Equipment Distribution: 1,040 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Chemicals, Plastics & Raw Materials Distribution: 412 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Packaging, Paper & JanSan Distribution: 380 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Consumer Goods & Apparel Distribution: 245 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Medical, Dental & Pharmaceutical Distribution: 197 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Technology & Media
5,057 related employer businesses in Chicago.
Digital Marketing Agencies: 1,571 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Creative Agencies: 1,567 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 3.0x SDE.
Media, Film & Studio Production: 773 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.5x SDE.
Real Estate Media: 611 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.8x SDE.
Software Companies (SaaS): 535 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x SDE.
E-commerce & Online Brands. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Beauty & Personal Care
5,030 related employer businesses in Chicago.
Hair Salons: 2,935 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.25x - 2.34x SDE.
Day Spas: 967 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE.
Tattoo Shops: 967 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Massage Parlors: 967 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Nail Salons: 857 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.4x - 1.88x SDE.
Barber Shops: 271 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.25x SDE.
Medical Spas. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Home Services
4,242 related employer businesses in Chicago.
Residential Cleaning: 2,041 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.6x SDE.
Commercial Cleaning: 2,041 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.47x - 4.11x EBITDA.
Property Management: 1,801 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Pest Control: 243 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.34x - 2.90x SDE.
Security Systems: 157 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.
Education & Childcare
2,910 related employer businesses in Chicago.
Daycare Centers: 2,588 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.39x - 3.35x SDE.
Tutoring Centers: 322 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Preschools. Typical sale multiple: 3.12x - 4.0x SDE.
Gas Stations & Convenience
2,908 related employer businesses in Chicago.
Gas Stations: 2,262 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Convenience Stores: 646 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.
Pharmacies & Medical Supply
2,714 related employer businesses in Chicago.
Home Infusion: 1,101 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Compounding Pharmacies: 991 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Specialty Pharmacies: 991 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Durable Medical Equipment (DME): 393 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Medical Supply Retail: 229 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Entertainment & Recreation
2,427 related employer businesses in Chicago.
Bars & Pubs: 1,496 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Clubs & Lounges: 1,496 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Outdoor Recreation: 524 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Golf Courses: 191 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 8.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Arcades & FECs: 113 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.6x SDE.
Bowling Alleys: 103 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.
Hospitality & Travel
2,134 related employer businesses in Chicago.
Hotels: 893 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.6x - 5.1x EBITDA.
Motels: 893 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.1x - 2.5x SDE.
Transportation Services: 844 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.1x SDE.
Travel Agencies: 362 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.2x SDE.
Campgrounds & RV Parks: 22 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Bed & Breakfasts / Inns: 13 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Health & Fitness
1,909 related employer businesses in Chicago.
Gyms & Health Clubs: 1,285 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 2.93x SDE.
Yoga Studios: 1,285 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.07x - 2.50x SDE.
Pilates Studios: 1,285 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.10x - 3.00x SDE.
Personal Training Studios: 1,285 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.00x - 2.80x SDE.
Wellness & Recovery Centers: 624 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.5x - 9.7x EBITDA.
Senior Care & Living
1,265 related employer businesses in Chicago.
Non-Medical Home Care: 855 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Assisted Living Facilities: 250 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Senior Living Communities: 160 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
1,061 related employer businesses in Chicago.
Pet Grooming & Spas: 755 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Boarding, Daycare & Training: 755 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Pet Retail & Specialty Supplies: 306 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.
Energy & Utilities
917 related employer businesses in Chicago.
Waste Management & Recycling: 438 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Water & Wastewater Services: 264 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Propane & Fuel Distribution: 155 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Oil & Gas Services: 30 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Solar & Renewable Energy: 30 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 6.0x EBITDA.
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.
Counties in this metro area
Working with owners in Chicago
Business Advisors of America works with owners who are selling a business in Chicago. Contact us to talk about a sale.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Questions owners in Chicago ask
How long does it take to sell a business in Chicago?
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 Chicago?
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.
FROM OUR BLOG
Guides for owners in Chicago
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