Selling a Business in Washington
Owners in the Washington area sell to local buyers and to buyers from other markets. The area has 159,002 employer businesses, and 84% of them have fewer than 20 employees. This page shows what is here and how a sale is handled.
LOCAL SNAPSHOT
Washington by the numbers
159,002
159,002
EMPLOYER BUSINESSES
84%
84%
SMALL EMPLOYER SHARE
688,662
688,662
BUSINESSES WITH NO EMPLOYEES
2,863,486
2,863,486
EMPLOYMENT
$243.0 billion
$243.0 billion
ANNUAL PAYROLL
60,979
60,979
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 Washington compares
The number of employer businesses grew 4.4% between 2018 and 2023.
Construction makes up 8% of employer businesses in Washington, compared with 2% in District of Columbia.
60,979 employer businesses here have 5 to 49 employees.
The number of employer businesses grew 4.4% between 2018 and 2023.
Construction makes up 8% of employer businesses in Washington, compared with 2% in District of Columbia.
60,979 employer businesses here have 5 to 49 employees.
Industry mix
The largest industries by number of employer businesses:
Professional and technical services: 34,327 employer businesses
Health care and social assistance: 19,078 employer businesses
Repair, personal care and other services: 18,064 employer businesses
Retail: 15,148 employer businesses
Accommodation and food service: 14,138 employer businesses
The largest industries by number of employer businesses:
Professional and technical services: 34,327 employer businesses
Health care and social assistance: 19,078 employer businesses
Repair, personal care and other services: 18,064 employer businesses
Retail: 15,148 employer businesses
Accommodation and food service: 14,138 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 Washington
Professional and technical services, health care and social assistance, repair, personal care and other services, retail
Every kind of business we sell in Washington
We sell businesses in every one of these industries in Washington. 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
15,275 related employer businesses in Washington.
General Contracting: 4,815 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Interior Finishing: 2,273 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Civil Engineering: 1,957 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 7.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Landscaping: 1,733 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Plumbing: 1,639 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x SDE.
HVAC Services: 1,639 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.6x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Electrical: 1,070 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Foundation & Site Prep: 711 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Roofing & Siding: 519 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Masonry: 309 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Carpentry & Framing: 164 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Remediation & Restoration: 85 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Restaurants & Food
13,799 related employer businesses in Washington.
Quick-Service & Fast Food: 5,579 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Full-Service Restaurants: 4,821 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Coffee Shops: 1,268 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Grocery Stores & Markets: 1,176 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Liquor, Wine & Beer Stores: 803 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Bakeries: 152 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Ghost Kitchens. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Medical Practices
12,234 related employer businesses in Washington.
Primary & Family Care: 3,851 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE.
Dental Practices: 3,290 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Mental & Behavioral Health: 1,177 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Home Health & Hospice: 965 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Physical Therapy & Rehab: 889 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Veterinary Medicine: 587 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 9.0x EBITDA.
Medical Labs & Imaging: 534 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Specialty Medicine: 397 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Vision & Eye Care: 381 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Urgent Care Clinics: 163 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Financial & Professional Services
8,678 related employer businesses in Washington.
Real Estate Brokerages: 2,873 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x SDE.
Accounting & Tax Practices: 2,491 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Insurance Agencies: 1,539 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Wealth Management: 1,129 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.7x - 4.0x Recurring Revenue.
Private Lending: 471 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Mortgage Brokerages: 175 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Retail Stores
6,414 related employer businesses in Washington.
Fashion, Apparel & Jewelry: 2,208 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Health, Beauty & Pharmacy: 1,473 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.8x - 4.2x EBITDA.
Home Decor & Furniture: 850 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Hardware, Garden & Building: 754 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE + Inventory.
Electronics & Repair: 451 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Hobby, Toys & Gift Shops: 444 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE + Inventory.
Sporting Goods & Firearms: 234 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.4x SDE.
Home Services
3,799 related employer businesses in Washington.
Property Management: 1,800 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Residential Cleaning: 1,644 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.6x SDE.
Commercial Cleaning: 1,644 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.47x - 4.11x EBITDA.
Pest Control: 209 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.34x - 2.90x SDE.
Security Systems: 146 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.
Automotive & Boat
3,789 related employer businesses in Washington.
Auto Repair: 1,634 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE.
Car Dealerships: 672 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2x - 8x Blue Sky + Assets.
Auto Parts: 520 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Collision Repair: 459 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Car Washes: 263 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Towing & Repo: 199 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Marinas: 29 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: Cap Rate or 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Boat Dealerships: 13 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Technology & Media
3,346 related employer businesses in Washington.
Digital Marketing Agencies: 1,356 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Creative Agencies: 714 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 3.0x SDE.
Software Companies (SaaS): 567 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x SDE.
Media, Film & Studio Production: 459 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.5x SDE.
Real Estate Media: 250 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.8x SDE.
E-commerce & Online Brands. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Beauty & Personal Care
3,283 related employer businesses in Washington.
Hair Salons: 1,747 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.25x - 2.34x SDE.
Nail Salons: 738 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.4x - 1.88x SDE.
Day Spas: 592 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE.
Tattoo Shops: 592 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Massage Parlors: 592 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Barber Shops: 206 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.25x SDE.
Medical Spas. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Logistics & Transportation
2,481 related employer businesses in Washington.
General Freight Trucking: 1,532 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 3.45x SDE.
Last-Mile & Courier: 293 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.76x - 3.32x SDE.
Commercial Moving: 242 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 3.0x SDE.
Freight Brokerage & 3PL: 156 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Warehousing & Fulfillment: 149 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Heavy Haul Transport: 55 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x SDE.
NEMT & Passenger Transport: 54 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.1x SDE.
Port Drayage. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Education & Childcare
2,157 related employer businesses in Washington.
Daycare Centers: 1,849 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.39x - 3.35x SDE.
Tutoring Centers: 308 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Preschools. Typical sale multiple: 3.12x - 4.0x SDE.
Gas Stations & Convenience
1,956 related employer businesses in Washington.
Gas Stations: 1,190 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Convenience Stores: 766 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.
Wholesale & Distribution
1,866 related employer businesses in Washington.
Industrial & Construction Supply: 584 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Food & Beverage Distribution: 502 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Electronics, IT & Office Equipment Distribution: 475 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Medical, Dental & Pharmaceutical Distribution: 90 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Consumer Goods & Apparel Distribution: 79 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Packaging, Paper & JanSan Distribution: 71 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Chemicals, Plastics & Raw Materials Distribution: 65 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Manufacturing
1,815 related employer businesses in Washington.
Food & Beverage Manufacturing: 522 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.1x - 4.5x SDE.
Printing & Plastics: 309 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.9x - 4.9x SDE.
Medical & Chemical Manufacturing: 202 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Metal Fabrication: 201 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.2x - 4.2x SDE.
Wood & Furniture Manufacturing: 185 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Electronics & Tech Manufacturing: 182 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.5x EBITDA.
Construction Materials Manufacturing: 129 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Textile & Apparel Manufacturing: 85 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Pharmacies & Medical Supply
1,794 related employer businesses in Washington.
Home Infusion: 965 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Compounding Pharmacies: 597 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Specialty Pharmacies: 597 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Medical Supply Retail: 121 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Durable Medical Equipment (DME): 111 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Health & Fitness
1,334 related employer businesses in Washington.
Gyms & Health Clubs: 935 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 2.93x SDE.
Yoga Studios: 935 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.07x - 2.50x SDE.
Pilates Studios: 935 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.10x - 3.00x SDE.
Personal Training Studios: 935 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.00x - 2.80x SDE.
Wellness & Recovery Centers: 399 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.5x - 9.7x EBITDA.
Hospitality & Travel
1,281 related employer businesses in Washington.
Hotels: 652 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.6x - 5.1x EBITDA.
Motels: 652 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.1x - 2.5x SDE.
Transportation Services: 378 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.1x SDE.
Travel Agencies: 207 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.2x SDE.
Bed & Breakfasts / Inns: 34 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Campgrounds & RV Parks: 10 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Entertainment & Recreation
881 related employer businesses in Washington.
Outdoor Recreation: 379 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Bars & Pubs: 330 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Clubs & Lounges: 330 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Golf Courses: 100 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 8.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Arcades & FECs: 42 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.6x SDE.
Bowling Alleys: 30 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.
Senior Care & Living
866 related employer businesses in Washington.
Non-Medical Home Care: 482 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Assisted Living Facilities: 275 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Senior Living Communities: 109 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
609 related employer businesses in Washington.
Pet Grooming & Spas: 468 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Boarding, Daycare & Training: 468 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Pet Retail & Specialty Supplies: 141 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
523 related employer businesses in Washington.
Waste Management & Recycling: 246 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Water & Wastewater Services: 146 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Propane & Fuel Distribution: 96 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Solar & Renewable Energy: 19 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Oil & Gas Services: 16 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
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 Washington. 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
15,275 related employer businesses in Washington.
General Contracting: 4,815 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Interior Finishing: 2,273 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Civil Engineering: 1,957 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 7.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Landscaping: 1,733 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Plumbing: 1,639 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x SDE.
HVAC Services: 1,639 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.6x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Electrical: 1,070 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Foundation & Site Prep: 711 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Roofing & Siding: 519 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Masonry: 309 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Carpentry & Framing: 164 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Remediation & Restoration: 85 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Restaurants & Food
13,799 related employer businesses in Washington.
Quick-Service & Fast Food: 5,579 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Full-Service Restaurants: 4,821 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Coffee Shops: 1,268 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Grocery Stores & Markets: 1,176 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Liquor, Wine & Beer Stores: 803 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Bakeries: 152 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Ghost Kitchens. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Medical Practices
12,234 related employer businesses in Washington.
Primary & Family Care: 3,851 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE.
Dental Practices: 3,290 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Mental & Behavioral Health: 1,177 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Home Health & Hospice: 965 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Physical Therapy & Rehab: 889 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Veterinary Medicine: 587 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 9.0x EBITDA.
Medical Labs & Imaging: 534 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Specialty Medicine: 397 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Vision & Eye Care: 381 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Urgent Care Clinics: 163 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Financial & Professional Services
8,678 related employer businesses in Washington.
Real Estate Brokerages: 2,873 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x SDE.
Accounting & Tax Practices: 2,491 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Insurance Agencies: 1,539 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Wealth Management: 1,129 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.7x - 4.0x Recurring Revenue.
Private Lending: 471 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Mortgage Brokerages: 175 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Retail Stores
6,414 related employer businesses in Washington.
Fashion, Apparel & Jewelry: 2,208 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Health, Beauty & Pharmacy: 1,473 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.8x - 4.2x EBITDA.
Home Decor & Furniture: 850 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Hardware, Garden & Building: 754 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE + Inventory.
Electronics & Repair: 451 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Hobby, Toys & Gift Shops: 444 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE + Inventory.
Sporting Goods & Firearms: 234 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.4x SDE.
Home Services
3,799 related employer businesses in Washington.
Property Management: 1,800 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Residential Cleaning: 1,644 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.6x SDE.
Commercial Cleaning: 1,644 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.47x - 4.11x EBITDA.
Pest Control: 209 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.34x - 2.90x SDE.
Security Systems: 146 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.
Automotive & Boat
3,789 related employer businesses in Washington.
Auto Repair: 1,634 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE.
Car Dealerships: 672 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2x - 8x Blue Sky + Assets.
Auto Parts: 520 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Collision Repair: 459 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Car Washes: 263 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Towing & Repo: 199 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Marinas: 29 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: Cap Rate or 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Boat Dealerships: 13 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Technology & Media
3,346 related employer businesses in Washington.
Digital Marketing Agencies: 1,356 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Creative Agencies: 714 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 3.0x SDE.
Software Companies (SaaS): 567 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x SDE.
Media, Film & Studio Production: 459 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.5x SDE.
Real Estate Media: 250 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.8x SDE.
E-commerce & Online Brands. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Beauty & Personal Care
3,283 related employer businesses in Washington.
Hair Salons: 1,747 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.25x - 2.34x SDE.
Nail Salons: 738 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.4x - 1.88x SDE.
Day Spas: 592 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE.
Tattoo Shops: 592 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Massage Parlors: 592 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Barber Shops: 206 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.25x SDE.
Medical Spas. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Logistics & Transportation
2,481 related employer businesses in Washington.
General Freight Trucking: 1,532 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 3.45x SDE.
Last-Mile & Courier: 293 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.76x - 3.32x SDE.
Commercial Moving: 242 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 3.0x SDE.
Freight Brokerage & 3PL: 156 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Warehousing & Fulfillment: 149 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Heavy Haul Transport: 55 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x SDE.
NEMT & Passenger Transport: 54 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.1x SDE.
Port Drayage. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Education & Childcare
2,157 related employer businesses in Washington.
Daycare Centers: 1,849 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.39x - 3.35x SDE.
Tutoring Centers: 308 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Preschools. Typical sale multiple: 3.12x - 4.0x SDE.
Gas Stations & Convenience
1,956 related employer businesses in Washington.
Gas Stations: 1,190 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Convenience Stores: 766 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.
Wholesale & Distribution
1,866 related employer businesses in Washington.
Industrial & Construction Supply: 584 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Food & Beverage Distribution: 502 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Electronics, IT & Office Equipment Distribution: 475 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Medical, Dental & Pharmaceutical Distribution: 90 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Consumer Goods & Apparel Distribution: 79 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Packaging, Paper & JanSan Distribution: 71 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Chemicals, Plastics & Raw Materials Distribution: 65 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Manufacturing
1,815 related employer businesses in Washington.
Food & Beverage Manufacturing: 522 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.1x - 4.5x SDE.
Printing & Plastics: 309 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.9x - 4.9x SDE.
Medical & Chemical Manufacturing: 202 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Metal Fabrication: 201 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.2x - 4.2x SDE.
Wood & Furniture Manufacturing: 185 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Electronics & Tech Manufacturing: 182 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.5x EBITDA.
Construction Materials Manufacturing: 129 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Textile & Apparel Manufacturing: 85 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Pharmacies & Medical Supply
1,794 related employer businesses in Washington.
Home Infusion: 965 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Compounding Pharmacies: 597 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Specialty Pharmacies: 597 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Medical Supply Retail: 121 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Durable Medical Equipment (DME): 111 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Health & Fitness
1,334 related employer businesses in Washington.
Gyms & Health Clubs: 935 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 2.93x SDE.
Yoga Studios: 935 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.07x - 2.50x SDE.
Pilates Studios: 935 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.10x - 3.00x SDE.
Personal Training Studios: 935 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.00x - 2.80x SDE.
Wellness & Recovery Centers: 399 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.5x - 9.7x EBITDA.
Hospitality & Travel
1,281 related employer businesses in Washington.
Hotels: 652 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.6x - 5.1x EBITDA.
Motels: 652 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.1x - 2.5x SDE.
Transportation Services: 378 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.1x SDE.
Travel Agencies: 207 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.2x SDE.
Bed & Breakfasts / Inns: 34 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Campgrounds & RV Parks: 10 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Entertainment & Recreation
881 related employer businesses in Washington.
Outdoor Recreation: 379 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Bars & Pubs: 330 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Clubs & Lounges: 330 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Golf Courses: 100 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 8.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Arcades & FECs: 42 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.6x SDE.
Bowling Alleys: 30 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.
Senior Care & Living
866 related employer businesses in Washington.
Non-Medical Home Care: 482 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Assisted Living Facilities: 275 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Senior Living Communities: 109 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
609 related employer businesses in Washington.
Pet Grooming & Spas: 468 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Boarding, Daycare & Training: 468 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Pet Retail & Specialty Supplies: 141 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
523 related employer businesses in Washington.
Waste Management & Recycling: 246 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Water & Wastewater Services: 146 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Propane & Fuel Distribution: 96 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Solar & Renewable Energy: 19 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Oil & Gas Services: 16 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
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 Washington
Business Advisors of America works with owners who are selling a business in Washington. Contact us to talk about a sale.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Questions owners in Washington ask
How long does it take to sell a business in Washington?
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 Washington?
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 Washington
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