Selling a Business in North Carolina
Selling a business in North Carolina means pricing it correctly, preparing the records a buyer will ask for and finding a buyer who can pay and close. North Carolina has 258,169 employer businesses and about 978,568 more with no employees. This page covers the numbers, the steps and what buyers look for.
LOCAL SNAPSHOT
North Carolina by the numbers
258,169
258,169
EMPLOYER BUSINESSES
85%
85%
SMALL EMPLOYER SHARE
978,568
978,568
BUSINESSES WITH NO EMPLOYEES
4,279,425
4,279,425
EMPLOYMENT
$259.7 billion
$259.7 billion
ANNUAL PAYROLL
104,353
104,353
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 North Carolina compares
North Carolina ranks 8th among the 50 states and the District of Columbia for employer businesses.
The number of employer businesses grew 9.9% between 2018 and 2023.
Construction makes up 11% of employer businesses in North Carolina, compared with 10% nationwide.
104,353 employer businesses here have 5 to 49 employees.
North Carolina ranks 8th among the 50 states and the District of Columbia for employer businesses.
The number of employer businesses grew 9.9% between 2018 and 2023.
Construction makes up 11% of employer businesses in North Carolina, compared with 10% nationwide.
104,353 employer businesses here have 5 to 49 employees.
How a sale works in North Carolina
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 North Carolina
Notice when assets are sold
North Carolina repealed its bulk transfer law, the part of the Uniform Commercial Code that once required a seller to notify creditors before selling most of a business's goods in one transaction. The General Statutes show Article 6 of Chapter 25 repealed by Session Laws 2004-190, effective January 1, 2005. Source: North Carolina General Statutes, Chapter 25, Article 6
Sales tax and the buyer's liability
North Carolina law says the buyer of a business or its stock of goods must withhold enough of the price to cover the seller's sales tax until the seller produces a statement from the Secretary of Revenue showing the taxes are paid or that none are due. A seller who stops doing business by transferring it files a final return within 30 days. If the buyer does not withhold and the tax stays unpaid, the buyer is personally liable up to the greater of the price paid or the fair market value of what was bought, which is called successor liability. Source: North Carolina General Statutes section 105-164.38
Permits and registrations
North Carolina law says a sales tax certificate of registration is not assignable and is valid only for the person in whose name it is issued. A buyer does not take over the seller's certificate. Source: North Carolina General Statutes section 105-164.29
Unemployment insurance account
North Carolina law says that when an employer acquires all of the business of another employer, the seller's unemployment account must be transferred to the buyer as of the acquisition date and used to set the buyer's contribution rate. When only a distinct portion of a business is sold, that part of the account may move by mutual consent with approval of the Division of Employment Security. A successor becomes liable for contributions on the day of the succession. Source: North Carolina General Statutes section 96-11.7
These points come from official North Carolina 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 North Carolina
Notice when assets are sold
North Carolina repealed its bulk transfer law, the part of the Uniform Commercial Code that once required a seller to notify creditors before selling most of a business's goods in one transaction. The General Statutes show Article 6 of Chapter 25 repealed by Session Laws 2004-190, effective January 1, 2005. Source: North Carolina General Statutes, Chapter 25, Article 6
Sales tax and the buyer's liability
North Carolina law says the buyer of a business or its stock of goods must withhold enough of the price to cover the seller's sales tax until the seller produces a statement from the Secretary of Revenue showing the taxes are paid or that none are due. A seller who stops doing business by transferring it files a final return within 30 days. If the buyer does not withhold and the tax stays unpaid, the buyer is personally liable up to the greater of the price paid or the fair market value of what was bought, which is called successor liability. Source: North Carolina General Statutes section 105-164.38
Permits and registrations
North Carolina law says a sales tax certificate of registration is not assignable and is valid only for the person in whose name it is issued. A buyer does not take over the seller's certificate. Source: North Carolina General Statutes section 105-164.29
Unemployment insurance account
North Carolina law says that when an employer acquires all of the business of another employer, the seller's unemployment account must be transferred to the buyer as of the acquisition date and used to set the buyer's contribution rate. When only a distinct portion of a business is sold, that part of the account may move by mutual consent with approval of the Division of Employment Security. A successor becomes liable for contributions on the day of the succession. Source: North Carolina General Statutes section 96-11.7
These points come from official North Carolina 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 North Carolina
Retail, construction, professional and technical services, health care and social assistance
Every kind of business we sell in North Carolina
We sell businesses in every one of these industries in North Carolina. 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
31,236 related employer businesses in North Carolina.
General Contracting: 9,306 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Landscaping: 4,361 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Plumbing: 3,973 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x SDE.
HVAC Services: 3,973 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.6x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Interior Finishing: 3,930 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Electrical: 3,089 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Foundation & Site Prep: 2,330 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Civil Engineering: 1,779 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 7.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Roofing & Siding: 1,208 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Masonry: 655 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Carpentry & Framing: 431 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Remediation & Restoration: 174 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Restaurants & Food
22,237 related employer businesses in North Carolina.
Full-Service Restaurants: 8,543 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Quick-Service & Fast Food: 8,502 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Coffee Shops: 2,224 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Grocery Stores & Markets: 2,007 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Liquor, Wine & Beer Stores: 671 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Bakeries: 290 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Ghost Kitchens. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Financial & Professional Services
17,904 related employer businesses in North Carolina.
Real Estate Brokerages: 6,880 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x SDE.
Insurance Agencies: 3,914 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Accounting & Tax Practices: 3,809 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Wealth Management: 2,114 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.7x - 4.0x Recurring Revenue.
Private Lending: 1,002 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Mortgage Brokerages: 185 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Medical Practices
16,730 related employer businesses in North Carolina.
Primary & Family Care: 5,102 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE.
Dental Practices: 3,551 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Mental & Behavioral Health: 1,960 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Physical Therapy & Rehab: 1,400 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Home Health & Hospice: 1,376 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Veterinary Medicine: 1,223 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 9.0x EBITDA.
Medical Labs & Imaging: 808 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Vision & Eye Care: 661 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Specialty Medicine: 374 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Urgent Care Clinics: 275 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Retail Stores
13,390 related employer businesses in North Carolina.
Fashion, Apparel & Jewelry: 3,856 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Health, Beauty & Pharmacy: 2,897 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.8x - 4.2x EBITDA.
Hardware, Garden & Building: 2,471 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE + Inventory.
Home Decor & Furniture: 1,769 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Hobby, Toys & Gift Shops: 978 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE + Inventory.
Electronics & Repair: 721 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Sporting Goods & Firearms: 698 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.4x SDE.
Automotive & Boat
9,367 related employer businesses in North Carolina.
Auto Repair: 3,450 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE.
Car Dealerships: 1,848 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2x - 8x Blue Sky + Assets.
Auto Parts: 1,842 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Collision Repair: 1,010 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Car Washes: 615 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Towing & Repo: 366 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Boat Dealerships: 143 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Marinas: 93 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: Cap Rate or 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Manufacturing
7,137 related employer businesses in North Carolina.
Metal Fabrication: 1,385 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.2x - 4.2x SDE.
Wood & Furniture Manufacturing: 1,240 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Food & Beverage Manufacturing: 1,214 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.1x - 4.5x SDE.
Printing & Plastics: 1,032 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.9x - 4.9x SDE.
Medical & Chemical Manufacturing: 710 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Textile & Apparel Manufacturing: 630 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Construction Materials Manufacturing: 577 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Electronics & Tech Manufacturing: 349 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.5x EBITDA.
Logistics & Transportation
7,133 related employer businesses in North Carolina.
General Freight Trucking: 4,948 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 3.45x SDE.
Warehousing & Fulfillment: 580 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Freight Brokerage & 3PL: 483 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Last-Mile & Courier: 470 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.76x - 3.32x SDE.
Commercial Moving: 318 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 3.0x SDE.
Heavy Haul Transport: 246 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x SDE.
NEMT & Passenger Transport: 88 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.1x SDE.
Port Drayage. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Home Services
5,495 related employer businesses in North Carolina.
Property Management: 2,439 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Residential Cleaning: 2,277 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.6x SDE.
Commercial Cleaning: 2,277 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.47x - 4.11x EBITDA.
Pest Control: 573 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.34x - 2.90x SDE.
Security Systems: 206 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.
Wholesale & Distribution
5,481 related employer businesses in North Carolina.
Industrial & Construction Supply: 2,469 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Food & Beverage Distribution: 949 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Electronics, IT & Office Equipment Distribution: 921 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Chemicals, Plastics & Raw Materials Distribution: 371 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Consumer Goods & Apparel Distribution: 319 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Medical, Dental & Pharmaceutical Distribution: 230 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Packaging, Paper & JanSan Distribution: 222 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Gas Stations & Convenience
5,165 related employer businesses in North Carolina.
Gas Stations: 4,256 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Convenience Stores: 909 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.
Beauty & Personal Care
3,983 related employer businesses in North Carolina.
Hair Salons: 2,226 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.25x - 2.34x SDE.
Day Spas: 993 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE.
Tattoo Shops: 993 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Massage Parlors: 993 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Nail Salons: 570 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.4x - 1.88x SDE.
Barber Shops: 194 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.25x SDE.
Medical Spas. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Technology & Media
3,935 related employer businesses in North Carolina.
Creative Agencies: 1,192 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 3.0x SDE.
Digital Marketing Agencies: 1,123 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Media, Film & Studio Production: 594 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.5x SDE.
Software Companies (SaaS): 524 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x SDE.
Real Estate Media: 502 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.8x SDE.
E-commerce & Online Brands. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Pharmacies & Medical Supply
3,597 related employer businesses in North Carolina.
Compounding Pharmacies: 1,466 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Specialty Pharmacies: 1,466 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Home Infusion: 1,376 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Durable Medical Equipment (DME): 408 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Medical Supply Retail: 347 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Education & Childcare
2,879 related employer businesses in North Carolina.
Daycare Centers: 2,612 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.39x - 3.35x SDE.
Tutoring Centers: 267 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Preschools. Typical sale multiple: 3.12x - 4.0x SDE.
Hospitality & Travel
2,689 related employer businesses in North Carolina.
Hotels: 1,928 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.6x - 5.1x EBITDA.
Motels: 1,928 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.1x - 2.5x SDE.
Transportation Services: 317 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.1x SDE.
Travel Agencies: 223 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.2x SDE.
Campgrounds & RV Parks: 146 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Bed & Breakfasts / Inns: 75 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Entertainment & Recreation
2,343 related employer businesses in North Carolina.
Bars & Pubs: 983 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Clubs & Lounges: 983 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Outdoor Recreation: 760 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Golf Courses: 351 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 8.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Arcades & FECs: 176 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.6x SDE.
Bowling Alleys: 73 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.
Health & Fitness
2,240 related employer businesses in North Carolina.
Gyms & Health Clubs: 1,415 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 2.93x SDE.
Yoga Studios: 1,415 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.07x - 2.50x SDE.
Pilates Studios: 1,415 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.10x - 3.00x SDE.
Personal Training Studios: 1,415 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.00x - 2.80x SDE.
Wellness & Recovery Centers: 825 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.5x - 9.7x EBITDA.
Senior Care & Living
1,799 related employer businesses in North Carolina.
Non-Medical Home Care: 1,081 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Assisted Living Facilities: 552 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Senior Living Communities: 166 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
1,772 related employer businesses in North Carolina.
Waste Management & Recycling: 608 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Propane & Fuel Distribution: 563 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Water & Wastewater Services: 526 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Solar & Renewable Energy: 38 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Oil & Gas Services: 37 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Pet Services
1,268 related employer businesses in North Carolina.
Pet Grooming & Spas: 931 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Boarding, Daycare & Training: 931 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Pet Retail & Specialty Supplies: 337 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
21 related employer businesses in North Carolina.
Agricultural Labor Contracting: 21 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 North Carolina. 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
31,236 related employer businesses in North Carolina.
General Contracting: 9,306 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Landscaping: 4,361 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Plumbing: 3,973 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x SDE.
HVAC Services: 3,973 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.6x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Interior Finishing: 3,930 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Electrical: 3,089 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Foundation & Site Prep: 2,330 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Civil Engineering: 1,779 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 7.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Roofing & Siding: 1,208 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Masonry: 655 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Carpentry & Framing: 431 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Remediation & Restoration: 174 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Restaurants & Food
22,237 related employer businesses in North Carolina.
Full-Service Restaurants: 8,543 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Quick-Service & Fast Food: 8,502 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Coffee Shops: 2,224 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Grocery Stores & Markets: 2,007 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Liquor, Wine & Beer Stores: 671 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Bakeries: 290 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Ghost Kitchens. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Financial & Professional Services
17,904 related employer businesses in North Carolina.
Real Estate Brokerages: 6,880 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x SDE.
Insurance Agencies: 3,914 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Accounting & Tax Practices: 3,809 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Wealth Management: 2,114 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.7x - 4.0x Recurring Revenue.
Private Lending: 1,002 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Mortgage Brokerages: 185 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Medical Practices
16,730 related employer businesses in North Carolina.
Primary & Family Care: 5,102 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE.
Dental Practices: 3,551 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Mental & Behavioral Health: 1,960 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Physical Therapy & Rehab: 1,400 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Home Health & Hospice: 1,376 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Veterinary Medicine: 1,223 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 9.0x EBITDA.
Medical Labs & Imaging: 808 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Vision & Eye Care: 661 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Specialty Medicine: 374 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Urgent Care Clinics: 275 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Retail Stores
13,390 related employer businesses in North Carolina.
Fashion, Apparel & Jewelry: 3,856 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Health, Beauty & Pharmacy: 2,897 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.8x - 4.2x EBITDA.
Hardware, Garden & Building: 2,471 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE + Inventory.
Home Decor & Furniture: 1,769 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Hobby, Toys & Gift Shops: 978 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE + Inventory.
Electronics & Repair: 721 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Sporting Goods & Firearms: 698 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.4x SDE.
Automotive & Boat
9,367 related employer businesses in North Carolina.
Auto Repair: 3,450 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE.
Car Dealerships: 1,848 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2x - 8x Blue Sky + Assets.
Auto Parts: 1,842 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Collision Repair: 1,010 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Car Washes: 615 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Towing & Repo: 366 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Boat Dealerships: 143 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Marinas: 93 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: Cap Rate or 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Manufacturing
7,137 related employer businesses in North Carolina.
Metal Fabrication: 1,385 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.2x - 4.2x SDE.
Wood & Furniture Manufacturing: 1,240 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Food & Beverage Manufacturing: 1,214 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.1x - 4.5x SDE.
Printing & Plastics: 1,032 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.9x - 4.9x SDE.
Medical & Chemical Manufacturing: 710 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Textile & Apparel Manufacturing: 630 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Construction Materials Manufacturing: 577 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Electronics & Tech Manufacturing: 349 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.5x EBITDA.
Logistics & Transportation
7,133 related employer businesses in North Carolina.
General Freight Trucking: 4,948 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 3.45x SDE.
Warehousing & Fulfillment: 580 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Freight Brokerage & 3PL: 483 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Last-Mile & Courier: 470 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.76x - 3.32x SDE.
Commercial Moving: 318 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 3.0x SDE.
Heavy Haul Transport: 246 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x SDE.
NEMT & Passenger Transport: 88 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.1x SDE.
Port Drayage. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Home Services
5,495 related employer businesses in North Carolina.
Property Management: 2,439 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Residential Cleaning: 2,277 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.6x SDE.
Commercial Cleaning: 2,277 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.47x - 4.11x EBITDA.
Pest Control: 573 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.34x - 2.90x SDE.
Security Systems: 206 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.
Wholesale & Distribution
5,481 related employer businesses in North Carolina.
Industrial & Construction Supply: 2,469 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Food & Beverage Distribution: 949 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Electronics, IT & Office Equipment Distribution: 921 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Chemicals, Plastics & Raw Materials Distribution: 371 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Consumer Goods & Apparel Distribution: 319 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Medical, Dental & Pharmaceutical Distribution: 230 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Packaging, Paper & JanSan Distribution: 222 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Gas Stations & Convenience
5,165 related employer businesses in North Carolina.
Gas Stations: 4,256 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Convenience Stores: 909 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.
Beauty & Personal Care
3,983 related employer businesses in North Carolina.
Hair Salons: 2,226 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.25x - 2.34x SDE.
Day Spas: 993 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE.
Tattoo Shops: 993 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Massage Parlors: 993 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Nail Salons: 570 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.4x - 1.88x SDE.
Barber Shops: 194 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.25x SDE.
Medical Spas. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Technology & Media
3,935 related employer businesses in North Carolina.
Creative Agencies: 1,192 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 3.0x SDE.
Digital Marketing Agencies: 1,123 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Media, Film & Studio Production: 594 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.5x SDE.
Software Companies (SaaS): 524 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x SDE.
Real Estate Media: 502 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.8x SDE.
E-commerce & Online Brands. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Pharmacies & Medical Supply
3,597 related employer businesses in North Carolina.
Compounding Pharmacies: 1,466 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Specialty Pharmacies: 1,466 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Home Infusion: 1,376 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Durable Medical Equipment (DME): 408 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Medical Supply Retail: 347 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Education & Childcare
2,879 related employer businesses in North Carolina.
Daycare Centers: 2,612 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.39x - 3.35x SDE.
Tutoring Centers: 267 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Preschools. Typical sale multiple: 3.12x - 4.0x SDE.
Hospitality & Travel
2,689 related employer businesses in North Carolina.
Hotels: 1,928 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.6x - 5.1x EBITDA.
Motels: 1,928 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.1x - 2.5x SDE.
Transportation Services: 317 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.1x SDE.
Travel Agencies: 223 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.2x SDE.
Campgrounds & RV Parks: 146 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Bed & Breakfasts / Inns: 75 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Entertainment & Recreation
2,343 related employer businesses in North Carolina.
Bars & Pubs: 983 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Clubs & Lounges: 983 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Outdoor Recreation: 760 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Golf Courses: 351 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 8.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Arcades & FECs: 176 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.6x SDE.
Bowling Alleys: 73 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.
Health & Fitness
2,240 related employer businesses in North Carolina.
Gyms & Health Clubs: 1,415 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 2.93x SDE.
Yoga Studios: 1,415 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.07x - 2.50x SDE.
Pilates Studios: 1,415 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.10x - 3.00x SDE.
Personal Training Studios: 1,415 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.00x - 2.80x SDE.
Wellness & Recovery Centers: 825 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.5x - 9.7x EBITDA.
Senior Care & Living
1,799 related employer businesses in North Carolina.
Non-Medical Home Care: 1,081 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Assisted Living Facilities: 552 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Senior Living Communities: 166 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
1,772 related employer businesses in North Carolina.
Waste Management & Recycling: 608 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Propane & Fuel Distribution: 563 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Water & Wastewater Services: 526 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Solar & Renewable Energy: 38 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Oil & Gas Services: 37 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Pet Services
1,268 related employer businesses in North Carolina.
Pet Grooming & Spas: 931 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Boarding, Daycare & Training: 931 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Pet Retail & Specialty Supplies: 337 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
21 related employer businesses in North Carolina.
Agricultural Labor Contracting: 21 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.
Working with owners in North Carolina
Business Advisors of America works with owners who are selling a business in North Carolina. Contact us to talk about a sale.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Questions owners in North Carolina ask
How long does it take to sell a business in North Carolina?
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 North Carolina?
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 North Carolina
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