Selling a Business in Rhode Island
Selling a business in Rhode Island means pricing it correctly, preparing the records a buyer will ask for and finding a buyer who can pay and close. Rhode Island has 29,510 employer businesses and about 98,258 more with no employees. This page covers the numbers, the steps and what buyers look for.
LOCAL SNAPSHOT
Rhode Island by the numbers
29,510
29,510
EMPLOYER BUSINESSES
86%
86%
SMALL EMPLOYER SHARE
98,258
98,258
BUSINESSES WITH NO EMPLOYEES
444,256
444,256
EMPLOYMENT
$27.5 billion
$27.5 billion
ANNUAL PAYROLL
11,688
11,688
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 Rhode Island compares
Rhode Island ranks 45th among the 50 states and the District of Columbia for employer businesses.
The number of employer businesses grew 2.7% between 2018 and 2023.
Construction makes up 12% of employer businesses in Rhode Island, compared with 10% nationwide.
11,688 employer businesses here have 5 to 49 employees.
Rhode Island ranks 45th among the 50 states and the District of Columbia for employer businesses.
The number of employer businesses grew 2.7% between 2018 and 2023.
Construction makes up 12% of employer businesses in Rhode Island, compared with 10% nationwide.
11,688 employer businesses here have 5 to 49 employees.
How a sale works in Rhode Island
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 Rhode Island
Notice when assets are sold
Rhode Island law says that when a taxpayer sells the major part in value of its assets outside the ordinary course of business, the sale is fraudulent and void as against the state unless the taxpayer notifies the Tax Administrator at least five days before the sale. The notice gives the price, terms and conditions, and the character and location of the assets, and it is made by requesting a letter of good standing from the Division of Taxation. All returns must be filed and all taxes paid when the notice is given. Source: Rhode Island General Laws section 44-19-22
Sales tax and the buyer's liability
Rhode Island's Division of Taxation regulation says the Tax Administrator issues a Letter of Good Standing once a corporation selling a major part of its Rhode Island assets has filed the required returns and paid all tax due. The request includes a tentative return through the date of sale. Until the returns are filed, the taxes are paid and the letter is issued, the regulation says the sale is fraudulent and void as against the state. Source: Division of Taxation regulation 280-RICR-20-25-4
Permits and registrations
Rhode Island law says a sales tax permit is not assignable. It is valid only for the person named on it and for business at the place the permit names, so a buyer does not take over the seller's permit. Source: Rhode Island General Laws section 44-19-2
Unemployment insurance account
Rhode Island law says that when an employer transfers its business to another employer and the two share any common ownership, management or control, the unemployment experience, the history that sets the tax rate, moves to the buyer. Partial transfers can be made without common ownership at the director's discretion. A buyer who was not already an employer does not receive the seller's experience if the director finds the business was bought mainly to get a lower tax rate. Source: Rhode Island General Laws section 28-43-35
These points come from official Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island
Notice when assets are sold
Rhode Island law says that when a taxpayer sells the major part in value of its assets outside the ordinary course of business, the sale is fraudulent and void as against the state unless the taxpayer notifies the Tax Administrator at least five days before the sale. The notice gives the price, terms and conditions, and the character and location of the assets, and it is made by requesting a letter of good standing from the Division of Taxation. All returns must be filed and all taxes paid when the notice is given. Source: Rhode Island General Laws section 44-19-22
Sales tax and the buyer's liability
Rhode Island's Division of Taxation regulation says the Tax Administrator issues a Letter of Good Standing once a corporation selling a major part of its Rhode Island assets has filed the required returns and paid all tax due. The request includes a tentative return through the date of sale. Until the returns are filed, the taxes are paid and the letter is issued, the regulation says the sale is fraudulent and void as against the state. Source: Division of Taxation regulation 280-RICR-20-25-4
Permits and registrations
Rhode Island law says a sales tax permit is not assignable. It is valid only for the person named on it and for business at the place the permit names, so a buyer does not take over the seller's permit. Source: Rhode Island General Laws section 44-19-2
Unemployment insurance account
Rhode Island law says that when an employer transfers its business to another employer and the two share any common ownership, management or control, the unemployment experience, the history that sets the tax rate, moves to the buyer. Partial transfers can be made without common ownership at the director's discretion. A buyer who was not already an employer does not receive the seller's experience if the director finds the business was bought mainly to get a lower tax rate. Source: Rhode Island General Laws section 28-43-35
These points come from official Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island
Retail, construction, accommodation and food service, health care and social assistance
Every kind of business we sell in Rhode Island
We sell businesses in every one of these industries in Rhode Island. 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
4,236 related employer businesses in Rhode Island.
General Contracting: 1,155 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Landscaping: 794 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Interior Finishing: 634 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Plumbing: 494 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x SDE.
HVAC Services: 494 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.6x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Electrical: 383 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Foundation & Site Prep: 249 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Civil Engineering: 221 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 7.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Roofing & Siding: 120 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Masonry: 113 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Carpentry & Framing: 48 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Remediation & Restoration: 25 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Restaurants & Food
3,042 related employer businesses in Rhode Island.
Full-Service Restaurants: 1,153 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Quick-Service & Fast Food: 915 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Coffee Shops: 487 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Liquor, Wine & Beer Stores: 232 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Grocery Stores & Markets: 204 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Bakeries: 51 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Ghost Kitchens. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Medical Practices
1,713 related employer businesses in Rhode Island.
Primary & Family Care: 510 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE.
Dental Practices: 327 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Mental & Behavioral Health: 259 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Physical Therapy & Rehab: 184 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Veterinary Medicine: 97 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 9.0x EBITDA.
Home Health & Hospice: 97 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Medical Labs & Imaging: 96 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Vision & Eye Care: 72 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Specialty Medicine: 49 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Urgent Care Clinics: 22 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Financial & Professional Services
1,499 related employer businesses in Rhode Island.
Accounting & Tax Practices: 444 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Real Estate Brokerages: 418 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x SDE.
Insurance Agencies: 320 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Wealth Management: 233 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.7x - 4.0x Recurring Revenue.
Private Lending: 66 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Mortgage Brokerages: 18 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Retail Stores
1,381 related employer businesses in Rhode Island.
Fashion, Apparel & Jewelry: 449 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Health, Beauty & Pharmacy: 290 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.8x - 4.2x EBITDA.
Hardware, Garden & Building: 247 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE + Inventory.
Home Decor & Furniture: 145 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Hobby, Toys & Gift Shops: 102 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE + Inventory.
Electronics & Repair: 76 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Sporting Goods & Firearms: 72 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.4x SDE.
Automotive & Boat
1,127 related employer businesses in Rhode Island.
Auto Repair: 386 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE.
Collision Repair: 190 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Car Dealerships: 173 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2x - 8x Blue Sky + Assets.
Auto Parts: 161 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Car Washes: 76 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Marinas: 64 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: Cap Rate or 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Boat Dealerships: 49 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Towing & Repo: 28 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Manufacturing
880 related employer businesses in Rhode Island.
Metal Fabrication: 219 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.2x - 4.2x SDE.
Food & Beverage Manufacturing: 184 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.1x - 4.5x SDE.
Printing & Plastics: 138 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.9x - 4.9x SDE.
Medical & Chemical Manufacturing: 111 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Wood & Furniture Manufacturing: 74 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Electronics & Tech Manufacturing: 60 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.5x EBITDA.
Textile & Apparel Manufacturing: 56 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Construction Materials Manufacturing: 38 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Beauty & Personal Care
652 related employer businesses in Rhode Island.
Hair Salons: 387 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.25x - 2.34x SDE.
Day Spas: 126 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE.
Tattoo Shops: 126 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Massage Parlors: 126 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Nail Salons: 112 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.4x - 1.88x SDE.
Barber Shops: 27 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.25x SDE.
Medical Spas. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Home Services
624 related employer businesses in Rhode Island.
Residential Cleaning: 286 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.6x SDE.
Commercial Cleaning: 286 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.47x - 4.11x EBITDA.
Property Management: 265 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Pest Control: 50 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.34x - 2.90x SDE.
Security Systems: 23 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.
Logistics & Transportation
617 related employer businesses in Rhode Island.
General Freight Trucking: 405 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 3.45x SDE.
Last-Mile & Courier: 54 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.76x - 3.32x SDE.
Warehousing & Fulfillment: 39 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
NEMT & Passenger Transport: 37 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.1x SDE.
Freight Brokerage & 3PL: 32 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Commercial Moving: 32 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 3.0x SDE.
Heavy Haul Transport: 18 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x SDE.
Port Drayage. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Wholesale & Distribution
616 related employer businesses in Rhode Island.
Industrial & Construction Supply: 200 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Food & Beverage Distribution: 180 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Electronics, IT & Office Equipment Distribution: 107 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Chemicals, Plastics & Raw Materials Distribution: 40 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Consumer Goods & Apparel Distribution: 31 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Medical, Dental & Pharmaceutical Distribution: 29 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Packaging, Paper & JanSan Distribution: 29 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Technology & Media
448 related employer businesses in Rhode Island.
Creative Agencies: 144 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 3.0x SDE.
Digital Marketing Agencies: 111 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Media, Film & Studio Production: 71 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.5x SDE.
Software Companies (SaaS): 65 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x SDE.
Real Estate Media: 57 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.8x SDE.
E-commerce & Online Brands. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Gas Stations & Convenience
443 related employer businesses in Rhode Island.
Gas Stations: 296 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Convenience Stores: 147 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.
Entertainment & Recreation
405 related employer businesses in Rhode Island.
Bars & Pubs: 229 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Clubs & Lounges: 229 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Outdoor Recreation: 89 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Golf Courses: 54 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 8.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Arcades & FECs: 20 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.6x SDE.
Bowling Alleys: 13 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Event Venues. Typical sale multiple: 2.8x - 3.5x Earnings.
Banquet Halls. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x Earnings.
Escape Rooms. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Hospitality & Travel
367 related employer businesses in Rhode Island.
Hotels: 158 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.6x - 5.1x EBITDA.
Motels: 158 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.1x - 2.5x SDE.
Transportation Services: 123 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.1x SDE.
Travel Agencies: 39 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.2x SDE.
Bed & Breakfasts / Inns: 32 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Campgrounds & RV Parks: 15 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Pharmacies & Medical Supply
319 related employer businesses in Rhode Island.
Compounding Pharmacies: 149 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Specialty Pharmacies: 149 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Home Infusion: 97 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Medical Supply Retail: 38 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Durable Medical Equipment (DME): 35 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Education & Childcare
302 related employer businesses in Rhode Island.
Daycare Centers: 279 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.39x - 3.35x SDE.
Tutoring Centers: 23 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Preschools. Typical sale multiple: 3.12x - 4.0x SDE.
Health & Fitness
299 related employer businesses in Rhode Island.
Gyms & Health Clubs: 178 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 2.93x SDE.
Yoga Studios: 178 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.07x - 2.50x SDE.
Pilates Studios: 178 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.10x - 3.00x SDE.
Personal Training Studios: 178 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.00x - 2.80x SDE.
Wellness & Recovery Centers: 121 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.5x - 9.7x EBITDA.
Energy & Utilities
232 related employer businesses in Rhode Island.
Propane & Fuel Distribution: 100 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Waste Management & Recycling: 82 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Water & Wastewater Services: 39 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Solar & Renewable Energy: 6 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Oil & Gas Services: 5 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Senior Care & Living
193 related employer businesses in Rhode Island.
Non-Medical Home Care: 134 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Assisted Living Facilities: 34 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Senior Living Communities: 25 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
168 related employer businesses in Rhode Island.
Pet Grooming & Spas: 128 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Boarding, Daycare & Training: 128 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Pet Retail & Specialty Supplies: 40 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE + Inventory.
Mobile & In-Home Pet Care. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE + Fleet.
E-commerce & Online Businesses
Amazon FBA Businesses. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Online Marketplaces. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 6.0x SDE.
Land & Agriculture
Crop Production. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 6.69x EBITDA.
Livestock & Ranching. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.76x EBITDA.
Agribusiness & Infrastructure. Typical sale multiple: 5.2x - 10.3x EBITDA.
AgTech & Precision Ag. Typical sale multiple: 8.3x - 12.1x EBITDA.
Agri-Tourism & Lifestyle. Typical sale multiple: 2.51x - 4.54x SDE.
We sell businesses in every one of these industries in Rhode Island. 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
4,236 related employer businesses in Rhode Island.
General Contracting: 1,155 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Landscaping: 794 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Interior Finishing: 634 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Plumbing: 494 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x SDE.
HVAC Services: 494 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.6x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Electrical: 383 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Foundation & Site Prep: 249 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Civil Engineering: 221 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 7.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Roofing & Siding: 120 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Masonry: 113 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Carpentry & Framing: 48 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Remediation & Restoration: 25 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Restaurants & Food
3,042 related employer businesses in Rhode Island.
Full-Service Restaurants: 1,153 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Quick-Service & Fast Food: 915 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Coffee Shops: 487 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Liquor, Wine & Beer Stores: 232 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Grocery Stores & Markets: 204 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Bakeries: 51 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Ghost Kitchens. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Medical Practices
1,713 related employer businesses in Rhode Island.
Primary & Family Care: 510 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE.
Dental Practices: 327 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Mental & Behavioral Health: 259 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Physical Therapy & Rehab: 184 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Veterinary Medicine: 97 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 9.0x EBITDA.
Home Health & Hospice: 97 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Medical Labs & Imaging: 96 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Vision & Eye Care: 72 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Specialty Medicine: 49 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Urgent Care Clinics: 22 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Financial & Professional Services
1,499 related employer businesses in Rhode Island.
Accounting & Tax Practices: 444 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Real Estate Brokerages: 418 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x SDE.
Insurance Agencies: 320 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Wealth Management: 233 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.7x - 4.0x Recurring Revenue.
Private Lending: 66 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Mortgage Brokerages: 18 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Retail Stores
1,381 related employer businesses in Rhode Island.
Fashion, Apparel & Jewelry: 449 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Health, Beauty & Pharmacy: 290 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.8x - 4.2x EBITDA.
Hardware, Garden & Building: 247 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE + Inventory.
Home Decor & Furniture: 145 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Hobby, Toys & Gift Shops: 102 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE + Inventory.
Electronics & Repair: 76 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Sporting Goods & Firearms: 72 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.4x SDE.
Automotive & Boat
1,127 related employer businesses in Rhode Island.
Auto Repair: 386 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE.
Collision Repair: 190 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Car Dealerships: 173 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2x - 8x Blue Sky + Assets.
Auto Parts: 161 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Car Washes: 76 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Marinas: 64 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: Cap Rate or 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Boat Dealerships: 49 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Towing & Repo: 28 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Manufacturing
880 related employer businesses in Rhode Island.
Metal Fabrication: 219 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.2x - 4.2x SDE.
Food & Beverage Manufacturing: 184 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.1x - 4.5x SDE.
Printing & Plastics: 138 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.9x - 4.9x SDE.
Medical & Chemical Manufacturing: 111 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Wood & Furniture Manufacturing: 74 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Electronics & Tech Manufacturing: 60 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.5x EBITDA.
Textile & Apparel Manufacturing: 56 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Construction Materials Manufacturing: 38 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Beauty & Personal Care
652 related employer businesses in Rhode Island.
Hair Salons: 387 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.25x - 2.34x SDE.
Day Spas: 126 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE.
Tattoo Shops: 126 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Massage Parlors: 126 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Nail Salons: 112 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.4x - 1.88x SDE.
Barber Shops: 27 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.25x SDE.
Medical Spas. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Home Services
624 related employer businesses in Rhode Island.
Residential Cleaning: 286 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.6x SDE.
Commercial Cleaning: 286 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.47x - 4.11x EBITDA.
Property Management: 265 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Pest Control: 50 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.34x - 2.90x SDE.
Security Systems: 23 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.
Logistics & Transportation
617 related employer businesses in Rhode Island.
General Freight Trucking: 405 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 3.45x SDE.
Last-Mile & Courier: 54 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.76x - 3.32x SDE.
Warehousing & Fulfillment: 39 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
NEMT & Passenger Transport: 37 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.1x SDE.
Freight Brokerage & 3PL: 32 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Commercial Moving: 32 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 3.0x SDE.
Heavy Haul Transport: 18 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x SDE.
Port Drayage. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Wholesale & Distribution
616 related employer businesses in Rhode Island.
Industrial & Construction Supply: 200 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Food & Beverage Distribution: 180 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Electronics, IT & Office Equipment Distribution: 107 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Chemicals, Plastics & Raw Materials Distribution: 40 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Consumer Goods & Apparel Distribution: 31 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Medical, Dental & Pharmaceutical Distribution: 29 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Packaging, Paper & JanSan Distribution: 29 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Technology & Media
448 related employer businesses in Rhode Island.
Creative Agencies: 144 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 3.0x SDE.
Digital Marketing Agencies: 111 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Media, Film & Studio Production: 71 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.5x SDE.
Software Companies (SaaS): 65 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x SDE.
Real Estate Media: 57 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.8x SDE.
E-commerce & Online Brands. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Gas Stations & Convenience
443 related employer businesses in Rhode Island.
Gas Stations: 296 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Convenience Stores: 147 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.
Entertainment & Recreation
405 related employer businesses in Rhode Island.
Bars & Pubs: 229 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Clubs & Lounges: 229 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Outdoor Recreation: 89 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Golf Courses: 54 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 8.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Arcades & FECs: 20 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.6x SDE.
Bowling Alleys: 13 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Event Venues. Typical sale multiple: 2.8x - 3.5x Earnings.
Banquet Halls. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x Earnings.
Escape Rooms. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Hospitality & Travel
367 related employer businesses in Rhode Island.
Hotels: 158 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.6x - 5.1x EBITDA.
Motels: 158 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.1x - 2.5x SDE.
Transportation Services: 123 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.1x SDE.
Travel Agencies: 39 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.2x SDE.
Bed & Breakfasts / Inns: 32 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Campgrounds & RV Parks: 15 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Pharmacies & Medical Supply
319 related employer businesses in Rhode Island.
Compounding Pharmacies: 149 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Specialty Pharmacies: 149 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Home Infusion: 97 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Medical Supply Retail: 38 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Durable Medical Equipment (DME): 35 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Education & Childcare
302 related employer businesses in Rhode Island.
Daycare Centers: 279 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.39x - 3.35x SDE.
Tutoring Centers: 23 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Preschools. Typical sale multiple: 3.12x - 4.0x SDE.
Health & Fitness
299 related employer businesses in Rhode Island.
Gyms & Health Clubs: 178 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 2.93x SDE.
Yoga Studios: 178 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.07x - 2.50x SDE.
Pilates Studios: 178 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.10x - 3.00x SDE.
Personal Training Studios: 178 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.00x - 2.80x SDE.
Wellness & Recovery Centers: 121 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.5x - 9.7x EBITDA.
Energy & Utilities
232 related employer businesses in Rhode Island.
Propane & Fuel Distribution: 100 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Waste Management & Recycling: 82 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Water & Wastewater Services: 39 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Solar & Renewable Energy: 6 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Oil & Gas Services: 5 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Senior Care & Living
193 related employer businesses in Rhode Island.
Non-Medical Home Care: 134 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Assisted Living Facilities: 34 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Senior Living Communities: 25 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
168 related employer businesses in Rhode Island.
Pet Grooming & Spas: 128 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Boarding, Daycare & Training: 128 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Pet Retail & Specialty Supplies: 40 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE + Inventory.
Mobile & In-Home Pet Care. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE + Fleet.
E-commerce & Online Businesses
Amazon FBA Businesses. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Online Marketplaces. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 6.0x SDE.
Land & Agriculture
Crop Production. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 6.69x EBITDA.
Livestock & Ranching. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.76x EBITDA.
Agribusiness & Infrastructure. Typical sale multiple: 5.2x - 10.3x EBITDA.
AgTech & Precision Ag. Typical sale multiple: 8.3x - 12.1x EBITDA.
Agri-Tourism & Lifestyle. Typical sale multiple: 2.51x - 4.54x SDE.
Metro areas in this state
Counties
Working with owners in Rhode Island
Business Advisors of America works with owners who are selling a business in Rhode Island. Contact us to talk about a sale.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Questions owners in Rhode Island ask
How long does it take to sell a business in Rhode Island?
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 Rhode Island?
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 Rhode Island
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