Selling a Business in Michigan
Selling a business in Michigan means pricing it correctly, preparing the records a buyer will ask for and finding a buyer who can pay and close. Michigan has 229,564 employer businesses and about 846,004 more with no employees. This page covers the numbers, the steps and what buyers look for.
LOCAL SNAPSHOT
Michigan by the numbers
229,564
229,564
EMPLOYER BUSINESSES
85%
85%
SMALL EMPLOYER SHARE
846,004
846,004
BUSINESSES WITH NO EMPLOYEES
4,041,074
4,041,074
EMPLOYMENT
$247.3 billion
$247.3 billion
ANNUAL PAYROLL
97,340
97,340
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 Michigan compares
Michigan ranks 11th among the 50 states and the District of Columbia for employer businesses.
The number of employer businesses grew 3.1% between 2018 and 2023.
Manufacturing makes up 5% of employer businesses in Michigan, compared with 3% nationwide.
97,340 employer businesses here have 5 to 49 employees.
Michigan ranks 11th among the 50 states and the District of Columbia for employer businesses.
The number of employer businesses grew 3.1% between 2018 and 2023.
Manufacturing makes up 5% of employer businesses in Michigan, compared with 3% nationwide.
97,340 employer businesses here have 5 to 49 employees.
How a sale works in Michigan
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 Michigan
Notice when assets are sold
Michigan repealed its bulk transfer law, the part of the Uniform Commercial Code that governed sales of most of a business's inventory at once, effective January 4, 1999. The Legislature's compiler notes say that rights and obligations that arose under the old article before the repeal remain valid. Source: Michigan Legislature compiled law (MCL 440.6101 to 440.6111)
Sales tax and the buyer's liability
The Michigan Department of Treasury says a buyer of even a portion of a business may be held responsible for the previous owner's tax liabilities, regardless of contract language to the contrary. Treasury calls this successor liability, meaning a buyer becomes responsible for the seller's unpaid taxes, and says the buyer must withhold enough money in escrow to cover the seller's business tax debts. The escrow may be released when the seller produces a Tax Clearance Certificate from Treasury stating that no taxes are due, and only the seller can request one. Source: Michigan Department of Treasury successor liability guidance
Permits and registrations
The Michigan Department of Treasury's sales tax rule says a sales tax license is not transferable and a new license must be secured immediately whenever the ownership of the business changes. The rule says a new owner who does not apply may be penalized for operating without a valid license. Source: Michigan Administrative Code sales tax license rule (R 205.1)
Unemployment insurance account
Michigan's Unemployment Insurance Agency says a transfer of the seller's unemployment tax account to the buyer is mandatory when 75 percent or more of the business's assets transfer and the buyer uses the trade name or goodwill, continues the business, or resumes it within 12 months. If less than 75 percent transfers, a voluntary transfer is possible when the agency is notified within 30 days after the end of the calendar quarter of the transfer and both owners ask for it in writing. Source: Unemployment Insurance Agency successorship guidance
These points come from official Michigan 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 Michigan
Notice when assets are sold
Michigan repealed its bulk transfer law, the part of the Uniform Commercial Code that governed sales of most of a business's inventory at once, effective January 4, 1999. The Legislature's compiler notes say that rights and obligations that arose under the old article before the repeal remain valid. Source: Michigan Legislature compiled law (MCL 440.6101 to 440.6111)
Sales tax and the buyer's liability
The Michigan Department of Treasury says a buyer of even a portion of a business may be held responsible for the previous owner's tax liabilities, regardless of contract language to the contrary. Treasury calls this successor liability, meaning a buyer becomes responsible for the seller's unpaid taxes, and says the buyer must withhold enough money in escrow to cover the seller's business tax debts. The escrow may be released when the seller produces a Tax Clearance Certificate from Treasury stating that no taxes are due, and only the seller can request one. Source: Michigan Department of Treasury successor liability guidance
Permits and registrations
The Michigan Department of Treasury's sales tax rule says a sales tax license is not transferable and a new license must be secured immediately whenever the ownership of the business changes. The rule says a new owner who does not apply may be penalized for operating without a valid license. Source: Michigan Administrative Code sales tax license rule (R 205.1)
Unemployment insurance account
Michigan's Unemployment Insurance Agency says a transfer of the seller's unemployment tax account to the buyer is mandatory when 75 percent or more of the business's assets transfer and the buyer uses the trade name or goodwill, continues the business, or resumes it within 12 months. If less than 75 percent transfers, a voluntary transfer is possible when the agency is notified within 30 days after the end of the calendar quarter of the transfer and both owners ask for it in writing. Source: Unemployment Insurance Agency successorship guidance
These points come from official Michigan 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 Michigan
Retail, health care and social assistance, repair, personal care and other services, professional and technical services
Every kind of business we sell in Michigan
We sell businesses in every one of these industries in Michigan. 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
24,037 related employer businesses in Michigan.
General Contracting: 7,031 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Landscaping: 3,797 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Interior Finishing: 3,059 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Plumbing: 2,661 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x SDE.
HVAC Services: 2,661 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.6x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Electrical: 1,960 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Foundation & Site Prep: 1,938 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Civil Engineering: 1,807 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 7.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Roofing & Siding: 763 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Masonry: 562 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Carpentry & Framing: 321 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Remediation & Restoration: 138 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Restaurants & Food
20,407 related employer businesses in Michigan.
Quick-Service & Fast Food: 7,923 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Full-Service Restaurants: 7,198 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Coffee Shops: 1,705 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Grocery Stores & Markets: 1,685 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Liquor, Wine & Beer Stores: 1,578 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Bakeries: 318 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Ghost Kitchens. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Medical Practices
17,700 related employer businesses in Michigan.
Primary & Family Care: 6,412 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE.
Dental Practices: 3,795 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Mental & Behavioral Health: 1,653 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Physical Therapy & Rehab: 1,584 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Home Health & Hospice: 1,487 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Veterinary Medicine: 1,021 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 9.0x EBITDA.
Vision & Eye Care: 579 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Medical Labs & Imaging: 551 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Specialty Medicine: 335 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Urgent Care Clinics: 283 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Financial & Professional Services
12,374 related employer businesses in Michigan.
Insurance Agencies: 3,680 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Accounting & Tax Practices: 3,472 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Real Estate Brokerages: 2,548 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x SDE.
Wealth Management: 1,945 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.7x - 4.0x Recurring Revenue.
Private Lending: 402 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Mortgage Brokerages: 327 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Retail Stores
12,374 related employer businesses in Michigan.
Fashion, Apparel & Jewelry: 3,255 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Health, Beauty & Pharmacy: 3,198 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.8x - 4.2x EBITDA.
Hardware, Garden & Building: 2,493 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE + Inventory.
Home Decor & Furniture: 1,107 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Hobby, Toys & Gift Shops: 871 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE + Inventory.
Electronics & Repair: 759 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Sporting Goods & Firearms: 691 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.4x SDE.
Automotive & Boat
9,809 related employer businesses in Michigan.
Auto Repair: 3,767 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE.
Auto Parts: 2,049 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Car Dealerships: 1,507 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2x - 8x Blue Sky + Assets.
Collision Repair: 1,111 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Car Washes: 668 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Towing & Repo: 313 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Boat Dealerships: 203 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Marinas: 191 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: Cap Rate or 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Manufacturing
8,315 related employer businesses in Michigan.
Metal Fabrication: 2,899 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.2x - 4.2x SDE.
Food & Beverage Manufacturing: 1,325 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.1x - 4.5x SDE.
Printing & Plastics: 1,286 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.9x - 4.9x SDE.
Wood & Furniture Manufacturing: 850 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Medical & Chemical Manufacturing: 703 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Electronics & Tech Manufacturing: 575 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.5x EBITDA.
Construction Materials Manufacturing: 436 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Textile & Apparel Manufacturing: 241 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Logistics & Transportation
7,205 related employer businesses in Michigan.
General Freight Trucking: 5,216 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 3.45x SDE.
Warehousing & Fulfillment: 587 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Freight Brokerage & 3PL: 475 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Last-Mile & Courier: 412 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.76x - 3.32x SDE.
Heavy Haul Transport: 264 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x SDE.
Commercial Moving: 168 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 3.0x SDE.
NEMT & Passenger Transport: 83 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.1x SDE.
Port Drayage. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Wholesale & Distribution
4,723 related employer businesses in Michigan.
Industrial & Construction Supply: 2,387 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Food & Beverage Distribution: 891 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Electronics, IT & Office Equipment Distribution: 658 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Chemicals, Plastics & Raw Materials Distribution: 355 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Packaging, Paper & JanSan Distribution: 185 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Consumer Goods & Apparel Distribution: 133 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Medical, Dental & Pharmaceutical Distribution: 114 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Gas Stations & Convenience
4,382 related employer businesses in Michigan.
Gas Stations: 3,540 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Convenience Stores: 842 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
3,861 related employer businesses in Michigan.
Compounding Pharmacies: 1,630 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Specialty Pharmacies: 1,630 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Home Infusion: 1,487 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Medical Supply Retail: 485 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Durable Medical Equipment (DME): 259 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Home Services
3,507 related employer businesses in Michigan.
Residential Cleaning: 1,712 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.6x SDE.
Commercial Cleaning: 1,712 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.47x - 4.11x EBITDA.
Property Management: 1,383 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Pest Control: 259 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.34x - 2.90x SDE.
Security Systems: 153 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.
Beauty & Personal Care
3,366 related employer businesses in Michigan.
Hair Salons: 2,170 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.25x - 2.34x SDE.
Day Spas: 764 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE.
Tattoo Shops: 764 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Massage Parlors: 764 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Nail Salons: 244 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.4x - 1.88x SDE.
Barber Shops: 188 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.25x SDE.
Medical Spas. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Technology & Media
2,859 related employer businesses in Michigan.
Digital Marketing Agencies: 887 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Creative Agencies: 788 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 3.0x SDE.
Media, Film & Studio Production: 493 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.5x SDE.
Software Companies (SaaS): 353 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x SDE.
Real Estate Media: 338 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.8x SDE.
E-commerce & Online Brands. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Entertainment & Recreation
2,732 related employer businesses in Michigan.
Bars & Pubs: 1,289 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Clubs & Lounges: 1,289 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Outdoor Recreation: 610 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Golf Courses: 525 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 8.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Bowling Alleys: 192 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Arcades & FECs: 116 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.6x SDE.
Event Venues. Typical sale multiple: 2.8x - 3.5x Earnings.
Banquet Halls. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x Earnings.
Escape Rooms. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Hospitality & Travel
2,268 related employer businesses in Michigan.
Hotels: 1,431 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.6x - 5.1x EBITDA.
Motels: 1,431 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.1x - 2.5x SDE.
Transportation Services: 346 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.1x SDE.
Campgrounds & RV Parks: 221 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Travel Agencies: 195 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.2x SDE.
Bed & Breakfasts / Inns: 75 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Education & Childcare
2,255 related employer businesses in Michigan.
Daycare Centers: 2,090 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.39x - 3.35x SDE.
Tutoring Centers: 165 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Preschools. Typical sale multiple: 3.12x - 4.0x SDE.
Senior Care & Living
2,002 related employer businesses in Michigan.
Non-Medical Home Care: 1,001 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Assisted Living Facilities: 882 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Senior Living Communities: 119 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Adult Day Services. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Energy & Utilities
1,571 related employer businesses in Michigan.
Waste Management & Recycling: 532 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Propane & Fuel Distribution: 467 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Water & Wastewater Services: 404 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Oil & Gas Services: 124 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Solar & Renewable Energy: 44 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Health & Fitness
1,497 related employer businesses in Michigan.
Gyms & Health Clubs: 930 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 2.93x SDE.
Yoga Studios: 930 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.07x - 2.50x SDE.
Pilates Studios: 930 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.10x - 3.00x SDE.
Personal Training Studios: 930 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.00x - 2.80x SDE.
Wellness & Recovery Centers: 567 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.5x - 9.7x EBITDA.
Pet Services
972 related employer businesses in Michigan.
Pet Grooming & Spas: 680 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Boarding, Daycare & Training: 680 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Pet Retail & Specialty Supplies: 292 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE + Inventory.
Mobile & In-Home Pet Care. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE + Fleet.
Land & Agriculture
15 related employer businesses in Michigan.
Agricultural Labor Contracting: 15 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.4x - 6.09x EBITDA.
Crop Production. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 6.69x EBITDA.
Livestock & Ranching. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.76x EBITDA.
Agribusiness & Infrastructure. Typical sale multiple: 5.2x - 10.3x EBITDA.
AgTech & Precision Ag. Typical sale multiple: 8.3x - 12.1x EBITDA.
Agri-Tourism & Lifestyle. Typical sale multiple: 2.51x - 4.54x SDE.
E-commerce & Online Businesses
Amazon FBA Businesses. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Online Marketplaces. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 6.0x SDE.
We sell businesses in every one of these industries in Michigan. 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
24,037 related employer businesses in Michigan.
General Contracting: 7,031 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Landscaping: 3,797 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Interior Finishing: 3,059 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Plumbing: 2,661 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x SDE.
HVAC Services: 2,661 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.6x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Electrical: 1,960 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Foundation & Site Prep: 1,938 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Civil Engineering: 1,807 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 7.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Roofing & Siding: 763 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Masonry: 562 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Carpentry & Framing: 321 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Remediation & Restoration: 138 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Restaurants & Food
20,407 related employer businesses in Michigan.
Quick-Service & Fast Food: 7,923 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Full-Service Restaurants: 7,198 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Coffee Shops: 1,705 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Grocery Stores & Markets: 1,685 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Liquor, Wine & Beer Stores: 1,578 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Bakeries: 318 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Ghost Kitchens. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Medical Practices
17,700 related employer businesses in Michigan.
Primary & Family Care: 6,412 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE.
Dental Practices: 3,795 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Mental & Behavioral Health: 1,653 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Physical Therapy & Rehab: 1,584 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Home Health & Hospice: 1,487 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Veterinary Medicine: 1,021 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 9.0x EBITDA.
Vision & Eye Care: 579 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Medical Labs & Imaging: 551 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Specialty Medicine: 335 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Urgent Care Clinics: 283 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Financial & Professional Services
12,374 related employer businesses in Michigan.
Insurance Agencies: 3,680 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Accounting & Tax Practices: 3,472 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Real Estate Brokerages: 2,548 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x SDE.
Wealth Management: 1,945 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.7x - 4.0x Recurring Revenue.
Private Lending: 402 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Mortgage Brokerages: 327 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Retail Stores
12,374 related employer businesses in Michigan.
Fashion, Apparel & Jewelry: 3,255 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Health, Beauty & Pharmacy: 3,198 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.8x - 4.2x EBITDA.
Hardware, Garden & Building: 2,493 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE + Inventory.
Home Decor & Furniture: 1,107 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Hobby, Toys & Gift Shops: 871 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE + Inventory.
Electronics & Repair: 759 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Sporting Goods & Firearms: 691 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.4x SDE.
Automotive & Boat
9,809 related employer businesses in Michigan.
Auto Repair: 3,767 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE.
Auto Parts: 2,049 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Car Dealerships: 1,507 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2x - 8x Blue Sky + Assets.
Collision Repair: 1,111 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Car Washes: 668 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Towing & Repo: 313 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Boat Dealerships: 203 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Marinas: 191 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: Cap Rate or 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Manufacturing
8,315 related employer businesses in Michigan.
Metal Fabrication: 2,899 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.2x - 4.2x SDE.
Food & Beverage Manufacturing: 1,325 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.1x - 4.5x SDE.
Printing & Plastics: 1,286 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.9x - 4.9x SDE.
Wood & Furniture Manufacturing: 850 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Medical & Chemical Manufacturing: 703 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Electronics & Tech Manufacturing: 575 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.5x EBITDA.
Construction Materials Manufacturing: 436 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Textile & Apparel Manufacturing: 241 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Logistics & Transportation
7,205 related employer businesses in Michigan.
General Freight Trucking: 5,216 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 3.45x SDE.
Warehousing & Fulfillment: 587 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Freight Brokerage & 3PL: 475 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Last-Mile & Courier: 412 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.76x - 3.32x SDE.
Heavy Haul Transport: 264 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x SDE.
Commercial Moving: 168 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 3.0x SDE.
NEMT & Passenger Transport: 83 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.1x SDE.
Port Drayage. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Wholesale & Distribution
4,723 related employer businesses in Michigan.
Industrial & Construction Supply: 2,387 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Food & Beverage Distribution: 891 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Electronics, IT & Office Equipment Distribution: 658 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Chemicals, Plastics & Raw Materials Distribution: 355 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Packaging, Paper & JanSan Distribution: 185 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Consumer Goods & Apparel Distribution: 133 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Medical, Dental & Pharmaceutical Distribution: 114 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Gas Stations & Convenience
4,382 related employer businesses in Michigan.
Gas Stations: 3,540 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Convenience Stores: 842 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
3,861 related employer businesses in Michigan.
Compounding Pharmacies: 1,630 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Specialty Pharmacies: 1,630 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Home Infusion: 1,487 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Medical Supply Retail: 485 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Durable Medical Equipment (DME): 259 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Home Services
3,507 related employer businesses in Michigan.
Residential Cleaning: 1,712 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.6x SDE.
Commercial Cleaning: 1,712 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.47x - 4.11x EBITDA.
Property Management: 1,383 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Pest Control: 259 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.34x - 2.90x SDE.
Security Systems: 153 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.
Beauty & Personal Care
3,366 related employer businesses in Michigan.
Hair Salons: 2,170 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.25x - 2.34x SDE.
Day Spas: 764 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE.
Tattoo Shops: 764 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Massage Parlors: 764 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Nail Salons: 244 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.4x - 1.88x SDE.
Barber Shops: 188 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.25x SDE.
Medical Spas. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Technology & Media
2,859 related employer businesses in Michigan.
Digital Marketing Agencies: 887 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Creative Agencies: 788 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 3.0x SDE.
Media, Film & Studio Production: 493 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.5x SDE.
Software Companies (SaaS): 353 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x SDE.
Real Estate Media: 338 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.8x SDE.
E-commerce & Online Brands. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Entertainment & Recreation
2,732 related employer businesses in Michigan.
Bars & Pubs: 1,289 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Clubs & Lounges: 1,289 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Outdoor Recreation: 610 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Golf Courses: 525 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 8.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Bowling Alleys: 192 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Arcades & FECs: 116 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.6x SDE.
Event Venues. Typical sale multiple: 2.8x - 3.5x Earnings.
Banquet Halls. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x Earnings.
Escape Rooms. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Hospitality & Travel
2,268 related employer businesses in Michigan.
Hotels: 1,431 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.6x - 5.1x EBITDA.
Motels: 1,431 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.1x - 2.5x SDE.
Transportation Services: 346 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.1x SDE.
Campgrounds & RV Parks: 221 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Travel Agencies: 195 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.2x SDE.
Bed & Breakfasts / Inns: 75 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Education & Childcare
2,255 related employer businesses in Michigan.
Daycare Centers: 2,090 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.39x - 3.35x SDE.
Tutoring Centers: 165 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Preschools. Typical sale multiple: 3.12x - 4.0x SDE.
Senior Care & Living
2,002 related employer businesses in Michigan.
Non-Medical Home Care: 1,001 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Assisted Living Facilities: 882 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Senior Living Communities: 119 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Adult Day Services. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Energy & Utilities
1,571 related employer businesses in Michigan.
Waste Management & Recycling: 532 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Propane & Fuel Distribution: 467 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Water & Wastewater Services: 404 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Oil & Gas Services: 124 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Solar & Renewable Energy: 44 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Health & Fitness
1,497 related employer businesses in Michigan.
Gyms & Health Clubs: 930 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 2.93x SDE.
Yoga Studios: 930 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.07x - 2.50x SDE.
Pilates Studios: 930 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.10x - 3.00x SDE.
Personal Training Studios: 930 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.00x - 2.80x SDE.
Wellness & Recovery Centers: 567 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.5x - 9.7x EBITDA.
Pet Services
972 related employer businesses in Michigan.
Pet Grooming & Spas: 680 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Boarding, Daycare & Training: 680 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Pet Retail & Specialty Supplies: 292 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE + Inventory.
Mobile & In-Home Pet Care. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE + Fleet.
Land & Agriculture
15 related employer businesses in Michigan.
Agricultural Labor Contracting: 15 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.4x - 6.09x EBITDA.
Crop Production. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 6.69x EBITDA.
Livestock & Ranching. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.76x EBITDA.
Agribusiness & Infrastructure. Typical sale multiple: 5.2x - 10.3x EBITDA.
AgTech & Precision Ag. Typical sale multiple: 8.3x - 12.1x EBITDA.
Agri-Tourism & Lifestyle. Typical sale multiple: 2.51x - 4.54x SDE.
E-commerce & Online Businesses
Amazon FBA Businesses. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Online Marketplaces. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 6.0x SDE.
Metro areas in this state
Counties
Working with owners in Michigan
Business Advisors of America works with owners who are selling a business in Michigan. Contact us to talk about a sale.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Questions owners in Michigan ask
How long does it take to sell a business in Michigan?
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 Michigan?
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 Michigan
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