Selling a Business in South Carolina
Selling a business in South Carolina means pricing it correctly, preparing the records a buyer will ask for and finding a buyer who can pay and close. South Carolina has 122,958 employer businesses and about 482,483 more with no employees. This page covers the numbers, the steps and what buyers look for.
LOCAL SNAPSHOT
South Carolina by the numbers
122,958
122,958
EMPLOYER BUSINESSES
85%
85%
SMALL EMPLOYER SHARE
482,483
482,483
BUSINESSES WITH NO EMPLOYEES
2,067,143
2,067,143
EMPLOYMENT
$109.5 billion
$109.5 billion
ANNUAL PAYROLL
50,570
50,570
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 South Carolina compares
South Carolina ranks 23rd among the 50 states and the District of Columbia for employer businesses.
The number of employer businesses grew 11.5% between 2018 and 2023.
Retail makes up 15% of employer businesses in South Carolina, compared with 12% nationwide.
50,570 employer businesses here have 5 to 49 employees.
South Carolina ranks 23rd among the 50 states and the District of Columbia for employer businesses.
The number of employer businesses grew 11.5% between 2018 and 2023.
Retail makes up 15% of employer businesses in South Carolina, compared with 12% nationwide.
50,570 employer businesses here have 5 to 49 employees.
How a sale works in South 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 South Carolina
Notice when assets are sold
South Carolina repealed the bulk transfer chapter of its commercial code, the part that governed sales of most of a business's inventory at once, effective July 1, 2001. Source: South Carolina Code of Laws Title 36, Chapter 6
Sales tax and the buyer's liability
South Carolina law says that when a majority of a business's assets are transferred, taxes the business owed on or before the transfer become a lien against those assets in the hands of the buyer until paid. A lien is a legal claim against property. The Department of Revenue may not issue a license to the buyer until those taxes are paid, but the rule does not apply if the buyer gets a certificate of compliance from the department no more than thirty days before the sale. Source: South Carolina Code section 12-54-124
Permits and registrations
The South Carolina Department of Revenue says a retail license cannot be transferred to a new owner, and the new owner must apply for a new license in its own name. The department cites the Sales and Use Tax Act, which states that a retail license may not be transferred to another person when a business is sold. Source: South Carolina Department of Revenue retail license page
Unemployment insurance account
The South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce says an employer that succeeds another in the operation of a business, in whole or in part, must notify the department of the succession. The department uses that information to calculate the successor's experience rating, which sets its unemployment tax rate, and may transfer only part of the former employer's experience when only part of the business is acquired. Source: Department of Employment and Workforce Form ETS-700
These points come from official South 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 South Carolina
Notice when assets are sold
South Carolina repealed the bulk transfer chapter of its commercial code, the part that governed sales of most of a business's inventory at once, effective July 1, 2001. Source: South Carolina Code of Laws Title 36, Chapter 6
Sales tax and the buyer's liability
South Carolina law says that when a majority of a business's assets are transferred, taxes the business owed on or before the transfer become a lien against those assets in the hands of the buyer until paid. A lien is a legal claim against property. The Department of Revenue may not issue a license to the buyer until those taxes are paid, but the rule does not apply if the buyer gets a certificate of compliance from the department no more than thirty days before the sale. Source: South Carolina Code section 12-54-124
Permits and registrations
The South Carolina Department of Revenue says a retail license cannot be transferred to a new owner, and the new owner must apply for a new license in its own name. The department cites the Sales and Use Tax Act, which states that a retail license may not be transferred to another person when a business is sold. Source: South Carolina Department of Revenue retail license page
Unemployment insurance account
The South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce says an employer that succeeds another in the operation of a business, in whole or in part, must notify the department of the succession. The department uses that information to calculate the successor's experience rating, which sets its unemployment tax rate, and may transfer only part of the former employer's experience when only part of the business is acquired. Source: Department of Employment and Workforce Form ETS-700
These points come from official South 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 South Carolina
Retail, repair, personal care and other services, health care and social assistance, professional and technical services
Every kind of business we sell in South Carolina
We sell businesses in every one of these industries in South 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
12,345 related employer businesses in South Carolina.
General Contracting: 3,329 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Landscaping: 1,910 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Plumbing: 1,685 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x SDE.
HVAC Services: 1,685 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.6x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Interior Finishing: 1,599 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Electrical: 1,015 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Foundation & Site Prep: 977 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Civil Engineering: 946 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 7.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Roofing & Siding: 445 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Masonry: 203 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Carpentry & Framing: 149 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Remediation & Restoration: 87 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Restaurants & Food
11,180 related employer businesses in South Carolina.
Full-Service Restaurants: 4,583 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Quick-Service & Fast Food: 4,227 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Grocery Stores & Markets: 911 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Coffee Shops: 811 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Liquor, Wine & Beer Stores: 583 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Bakeries: 65 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Ghost Kitchens. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Financial & Professional Services
9,122 related employer businesses in South Carolina.
Real Estate Brokerages: 3,337 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x SDE.
Insurance Agencies: 2,042 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Accounting & Tax Practices: 1,811 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Private Lending: 992 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Wealth Management: 836 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.7x - 4.0x Recurring Revenue.
Mortgage Brokerages: 104 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Medical Practices
7,522 related employer businesses in South Carolina.
Primary & Family Care: 2,464 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE.
Dental Practices: 1,758 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Physical Therapy & Rehab: 732 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Home Health & Hospice: 643 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Veterinary Medicine: 525 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 9.0x EBITDA.
Mental & Behavioral Health: 450 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Medical Labs & Imaging: 306 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Vision & Eye Care: 284 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Urgent Care Clinics: 185 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Specialty Medicine: 175 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Retail Stores
7,004 related employer businesses in South Carolina.
Fashion, Apparel & Jewelry: 2,233 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Health, Beauty & Pharmacy: 1,508 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.8x - 4.2x EBITDA.
Hardware, Garden & Building: 1,279 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE + Inventory.
Home Decor & Furniture: 856 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Hobby, Toys & Gift Shops: 476 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE + Inventory.
Electronics & Repair: 349 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Sporting Goods & Firearms: 303 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.4x SDE.
Automotive & Boat
4,324 related employer businesses in South Carolina.
Auto Repair: 1,510 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE.
Car Dealerships: 867 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2x - 8x Blue Sky + Assets.
Auto Parts: 851 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Collision Repair: 491 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Car Washes: 288 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Towing & Repo: 162 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Boat Dealerships: 101 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Marinas: 54 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: Cap Rate or 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Logistics & Transportation
3,334 related employer businesses in South Carolina.
General Freight Trucking: 2,158 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 3.45x SDE.
Warehousing & Fulfillment: 413 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Freight Brokerage & 3PL: 263 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Last-Mile & Courier: 175 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.76x - 3.32x SDE.
Heavy Haul Transport: 140 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x SDE.
Commercial Moving: 127 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 3.0x SDE.
NEMT & Passenger Transport: 58 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.1x SDE.
Port Drayage. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Gas Stations & Convenience
3,176 related employer businesses in South Carolina.
Gas Stations: 2,495 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Convenience Stores: 681 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.
Manufacturing
3,098 related employer businesses in South Carolina.
Metal Fabrication: 753 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.2x - 4.2x SDE.
Printing & Plastics: 481 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.9x - 4.9x SDE.
Wood & Furniture Manufacturing: 416 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Food & Beverage Manufacturing: 373 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.1x - 4.5x SDE.
Medical & Chemical Manufacturing: 371 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Construction Materials Manufacturing: 287 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Textile & Apparel Manufacturing: 253 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Electronics & Tech Manufacturing: 164 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.5x EBITDA.
Home Services
2,691 related employer businesses in South Carolina.
Residential Cleaning: 1,094 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.6x SDE.
Commercial Cleaning: 1,094 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.47x - 4.11x EBITDA.
Property Management: 1,047 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Pest Control: 407 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.34x - 2.90x SDE.
Security Systems: 143 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
2,385 related employer businesses in South Carolina.
Industrial & Construction Supply: 1,159 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Food & Beverage Distribution: 384 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Electronics, IT & Office Equipment Distribution: 347 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Chemicals, Plastics & Raw Materials Distribution: 165 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Consumer Goods & Apparel Distribution: 148 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Packaging, Paper & JanSan Distribution: 101 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Medical, Dental & Pharmaceutical Distribution: 81 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Beauty & Personal Care
1,883 related employer businesses in South Carolina.
Hair Salons: 1,052 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.25x - 2.34x SDE.
Day Spas: 419 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE.
Tattoo Shops: 419 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Massage Parlors: 419 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Nail Salons: 314 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.4x - 1.88x SDE.
Barber Shops: 98 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.25x SDE.
Medical Spas. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Pharmacies & Medical Supply
1,709 related employer businesses in South Carolina.
Compounding Pharmacies: 676 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Specialty Pharmacies: 676 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Home Infusion: 643 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Medical Supply Retail: 224 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Durable Medical Equipment (DME): 166 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Technology & Media
1,547 related employer businesses in South Carolina.
Digital Marketing Agencies: 513 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Creative Agencies: 507 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 3.0x SDE.
Real Estate Media: 232 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.8x SDE.
Media, Film & Studio Production: 149 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.5x SDE.
Software Companies (SaaS): 146 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x SDE.
E-commerce & Online Brands. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Hospitality & Travel
1,485 related employer businesses in South Carolina.
Hotels: 1,131 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.6x - 5.1x EBITDA.
Motels: 1,131 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.1x - 2.5x SDE.
Transportation Services: 187 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.1x SDE.
Travel Agencies: 92 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.2x SDE.
Campgrounds & RV Parks: 54 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Bed & Breakfasts / Inns: 21 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Entertainment & Recreation
1,128 related employer businesses in South Carolina.
Bars & Pubs: 440 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Clubs & Lounges: 440 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Outdoor Recreation: 384 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Golf Courses: 224 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 8.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Arcades & FECs: 50 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.6x SDE.
Bowling Alleys: 30 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Event Venues. Typical sale multiple: 2.8x - 3.5x Earnings.
Banquet Halls. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x Earnings.
Escape Rooms. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Education & Childcare
1,117 related employer businesses in South Carolina.
Daycare Centers: 1,042 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.39x - 3.35x SDE.
Tutoring Centers: 75 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Preschools. Typical sale multiple: 3.12x - 4.0x SDE.
Senior Care & Living
906 related employer businesses in South Carolina.
Non-Medical Home Care: 610 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Assisted Living Facilities: 195 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Senior Living Communities: 101 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
869 related employer businesses in South Carolina.
Waste Management & Recycling: 344 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Water & Wastewater Services: 260 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Propane & Fuel Distribution: 224 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Oil & Gas Services: 25 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Solar & Renewable Energy: 16 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Health & Fitness
725 related employer businesses in South Carolina.
Gyms & Health Clubs: 574 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 2.93x SDE.
Yoga Studios: 574 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.07x - 2.50x SDE.
Pilates Studios: 574 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.10x - 3.00x SDE.
Personal Training Studios: 574 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.00x - 2.80x SDE.
Wellness & Recovery Centers: 151 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.5x - 9.7x EBITDA.
Pet Services
595 related employer businesses in South Carolina.
Pet Grooming & Spas: 437 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Boarding, Daycare & Training: 437 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Pet Retail & Specialty Supplies: 158 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 South 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
12,345 related employer businesses in South Carolina.
General Contracting: 3,329 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Landscaping: 1,910 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Plumbing: 1,685 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x SDE.
HVAC Services: 1,685 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.6x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Interior Finishing: 1,599 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Electrical: 1,015 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Foundation & Site Prep: 977 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Civil Engineering: 946 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 7.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Roofing & Siding: 445 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Masonry: 203 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Carpentry & Framing: 149 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Remediation & Restoration: 87 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Restaurants & Food
11,180 related employer businesses in South Carolina.
Full-Service Restaurants: 4,583 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Quick-Service & Fast Food: 4,227 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Grocery Stores & Markets: 911 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Coffee Shops: 811 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Liquor, Wine & Beer Stores: 583 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Bakeries: 65 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Ghost Kitchens. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Financial & Professional Services
9,122 related employer businesses in South Carolina.
Real Estate Brokerages: 3,337 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x SDE.
Insurance Agencies: 2,042 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Accounting & Tax Practices: 1,811 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Private Lending: 992 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Wealth Management: 836 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.7x - 4.0x Recurring Revenue.
Mortgage Brokerages: 104 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Medical Practices
7,522 related employer businesses in South Carolina.
Primary & Family Care: 2,464 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE.
Dental Practices: 1,758 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Physical Therapy & Rehab: 732 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Home Health & Hospice: 643 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Veterinary Medicine: 525 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 9.0x EBITDA.
Mental & Behavioral Health: 450 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Medical Labs & Imaging: 306 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Vision & Eye Care: 284 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Urgent Care Clinics: 185 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Specialty Medicine: 175 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Retail Stores
7,004 related employer businesses in South Carolina.
Fashion, Apparel & Jewelry: 2,233 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Health, Beauty & Pharmacy: 1,508 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.8x - 4.2x EBITDA.
Hardware, Garden & Building: 1,279 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE + Inventory.
Home Decor & Furniture: 856 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Hobby, Toys & Gift Shops: 476 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE + Inventory.
Electronics & Repair: 349 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Sporting Goods & Firearms: 303 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.4x SDE.
Automotive & Boat
4,324 related employer businesses in South Carolina.
Auto Repair: 1,510 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE.
Car Dealerships: 867 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2x - 8x Blue Sky + Assets.
Auto Parts: 851 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Collision Repair: 491 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Car Washes: 288 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Towing & Repo: 162 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Boat Dealerships: 101 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Marinas: 54 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: Cap Rate or 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Logistics & Transportation
3,334 related employer businesses in South Carolina.
General Freight Trucking: 2,158 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 3.45x SDE.
Warehousing & Fulfillment: 413 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Freight Brokerage & 3PL: 263 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Last-Mile & Courier: 175 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.76x - 3.32x SDE.
Heavy Haul Transport: 140 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x SDE.
Commercial Moving: 127 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 3.0x SDE.
NEMT & Passenger Transport: 58 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.1x SDE.
Port Drayage. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Gas Stations & Convenience
3,176 related employer businesses in South Carolina.
Gas Stations: 2,495 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Convenience Stores: 681 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.
Manufacturing
3,098 related employer businesses in South Carolina.
Metal Fabrication: 753 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.2x - 4.2x SDE.
Printing & Plastics: 481 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.9x - 4.9x SDE.
Wood & Furniture Manufacturing: 416 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Food & Beverage Manufacturing: 373 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.1x - 4.5x SDE.
Medical & Chemical Manufacturing: 371 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Construction Materials Manufacturing: 287 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Textile & Apparel Manufacturing: 253 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Electronics & Tech Manufacturing: 164 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.5x EBITDA.
Home Services
2,691 related employer businesses in South Carolina.
Residential Cleaning: 1,094 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.6x SDE.
Commercial Cleaning: 1,094 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.47x - 4.11x EBITDA.
Property Management: 1,047 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Pest Control: 407 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.34x - 2.90x SDE.
Security Systems: 143 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
2,385 related employer businesses in South Carolina.
Industrial & Construction Supply: 1,159 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Food & Beverage Distribution: 384 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Electronics, IT & Office Equipment Distribution: 347 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Chemicals, Plastics & Raw Materials Distribution: 165 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Consumer Goods & Apparel Distribution: 148 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Packaging, Paper & JanSan Distribution: 101 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Medical, Dental & Pharmaceutical Distribution: 81 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Beauty & Personal Care
1,883 related employer businesses in South Carolina.
Hair Salons: 1,052 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.25x - 2.34x SDE.
Day Spas: 419 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE.
Tattoo Shops: 419 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Massage Parlors: 419 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Nail Salons: 314 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.4x - 1.88x SDE.
Barber Shops: 98 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.25x SDE.
Medical Spas. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Pharmacies & Medical Supply
1,709 related employer businesses in South Carolina.
Compounding Pharmacies: 676 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Specialty Pharmacies: 676 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Home Infusion: 643 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Medical Supply Retail: 224 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Durable Medical Equipment (DME): 166 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Technology & Media
1,547 related employer businesses in South Carolina.
Digital Marketing Agencies: 513 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Creative Agencies: 507 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 3.0x SDE.
Real Estate Media: 232 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.8x SDE.
Media, Film & Studio Production: 149 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.5x SDE.
Software Companies (SaaS): 146 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x SDE.
E-commerce & Online Brands. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Hospitality & Travel
1,485 related employer businesses in South Carolina.
Hotels: 1,131 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.6x - 5.1x EBITDA.
Motels: 1,131 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.1x - 2.5x SDE.
Transportation Services: 187 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.1x SDE.
Travel Agencies: 92 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.2x SDE.
Campgrounds & RV Parks: 54 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Bed & Breakfasts / Inns: 21 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Entertainment & Recreation
1,128 related employer businesses in South Carolina.
Bars & Pubs: 440 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Clubs & Lounges: 440 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Outdoor Recreation: 384 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Golf Courses: 224 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 8.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Arcades & FECs: 50 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.6x SDE.
Bowling Alleys: 30 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Event Venues. Typical sale multiple: 2.8x - 3.5x Earnings.
Banquet Halls. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x Earnings.
Escape Rooms. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Education & Childcare
1,117 related employer businesses in South Carolina.
Daycare Centers: 1,042 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.39x - 3.35x SDE.
Tutoring Centers: 75 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Preschools. Typical sale multiple: 3.12x - 4.0x SDE.
Senior Care & Living
906 related employer businesses in South Carolina.
Non-Medical Home Care: 610 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Assisted Living Facilities: 195 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Senior Living Communities: 101 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
869 related employer businesses in South Carolina.
Waste Management & Recycling: 344 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Water & Wastewater Services: 260 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Propane & Fuel Distribution: 224 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Oil & Gas Services: 25 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Solar & Renewable Energy: 16 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Health & Fitness
725 related employer businesses in South Carolina.
Gyms & Health Clubs: 574 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 2.93x SDE.
Yoga Studios: 574 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.07x - 2.50x SDE.
Pilates Studios: 574 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.10x - 3.00x SDE.
Personal Training Studios: 574 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.00x - 2.80x SDE.
Wellness & Recovery Centers: 151 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.5x - 9.7x EBITDA.
Pet Services
595 related employer businesses in South Carolina.
Pet Grooming & Spas: 437 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Boarding, Daycare & Training: 437 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Pet Retail & Specialty Supplies: 158 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 South Carolina
Business Advisors of America works with owners who are selling a business in South Carolina. Contact us to talk about a sale.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Questions owners in South Carolina ask
How long does it take to sell a business in South 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 South 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 South 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