Selling a Business in Washington
Selling a business in Washington means pricing it correctly, preparing the records a buyer will ask for and finding a buyer who can pay and close. Washington has 202,177 employer businesses and about 568,425 more with no employees. This page covers the numbers, the steps and what buyers look for.
LOCAL SNAPSHOT
Washington by the numbers
202,177
202,177
EMPLOYER BUSINESSES
87%
87%
SMALL EMPLOYER SHARE
568,425
568,425
BUSINESSES WITH NO EMPLOYEES
3,056,235
3,056,235
EMPLOYMENT
$251.8 billion
$251.8 billion
ANNUAL PAYROLL
79,317
79,317
BUSINESSES WITH 5 TO 49 EMPLOYEES
U.S. Census Bureau, County Business Patterns 2023 and Nonemployer Statistics 2024. Counts are employer establishments, meaning business locations with paid employees.
How Washington compares
Washington ranks 13th among the 50 states and the District of Columbia for employer businesses.
The number of employer businesses grew 4.3% between 2018 and 2023.
Construction makes up 13% of employer businesses in Washington, compared with 10% nationwide.
79,317 employer businesses here have 5 to 49 employees.
Washington ranks 13th among the 50 states and the District of Columbia for employer businesses.
The number of employer businesses grew 4.3% between 2018 and 2023.
Construction makes up 13% of employer businesses in Washington, compared with 10% nationwide.
79,317 employer businesses here have 5 to 49 employees.
How a sale works in Washington
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 Washington
Notice when assets are sold
Washington repealed the bulk transfers article of its Uniform Commercial Code in 1993, according to the Legislature's final report on Substitute House Bill 1013. On the tax side, the Department of Revenue says a person selling a business must file a final tax return, with payment, within 10 days of the sale. Source: Washington Department of Revenue guidance on selling a business
Sales tax and the buyer's liability
Washington's Department of Revenue says the buyer of a business could be liable for the unpaid taxes of the business, and the buyer may be required to withhold outstanding taxes from the purchase price and pay them to the Department. State law says a successor shall withhold enough of the price to cover any tax due until the seller produces a Department receipt or a certificate that no tax is due. The Department says a buyer may require the seller to provide a Tax Status letter showing any taxes the business owes. Source: Washington Department of Revenue guidance on buying the assets of a business
Permits and registrations
Washington's Department of Revenue rule for its Business Licensing Service says transfer of a business license is prohibited. The rule says each individual license held under the business license also may not be transferred unless the regulating agency's own licensing law expressly permits it. Source: Washington Administrative Code 458-02-201, Business Licensing Service rule
Unemployment insurance account
Washington law says that when the Employment Security Department finds a buyer is a successor to a business, the seller's unemployment experience is factored into the buyer's contribution rate. A buyer that was not already an employer pays the seller's rate for the rest of that rate year, and a buyer that was already an employer keeps its own rate until January 1, when the combined experience applies. If only part of the business is bought, only the experience tied to that part moves to the buyer. Source: Revised Code of Washington 50.29.062
These points come from official Washington 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 Washington
Notice when assets are sold
Washington repealed the bulk transfers article of its Uniform Commercial Code in 1993, according to the Legislature's final report on Substitute House Bill 1013. On the tax side, the Department of Revenue says a person selling a business must file a final tax return, with payment, within 10 days of the sale. Source: Washington Department of Revenue guidance on selling a business
Sales tax and the buyer's liability
Washington's Department of Revenue says the buyer of a business could be liable for the unpaid taxes of the business, and the buyer may be required to withhold outstanding taxes from the purchase price and pay them to the Department. State law says a successor shall withhold enough of the price to cover any tax due until the seller produces a Department receipt or a certificate that no tax is due. The Department says a buyer may require the seller to provide a Tax Status letter showing any taxes the business owes. Source: Washington Department of Revenue guidance on buying the assets of a business
Permits and registrations
Washington's Department of Revenue rule for its Business Licensing Service says transfer of a business license is prohibited. The rule says each individual license held under the business license also may not be transferred unless the regulating agency's own licensing law expressly permits it. Source: Washington Administrative Code 458-02-201, Business Licensing Service rule
Unemployment insurance account
Washington law says that when the Employment Security Department finds a buyer is a successor to a business, the seller's unemployment experience is factored into the buyer's contribution rate. A buyer that was not already an employer pays the seller's rate for the rest of that rate year, and a buyer that was already an employer keeps its own rate until January 1, when the combined experience applies. If only part of the business is bought, only the experience tied to that part moves to the buyer. Source: Revised Code of Washington 50.29.062
These points come from official Washington 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 Washington
Construction, health care and social assistance, professional and technical services, retail
Every kind of business we sell in Washington
We sell businesses in every one of these industries in Washington. Counts are employer businesses in the closest Census industry codes. Industries without a clean Census match are listed without a count, and a few industries share one Census category, so their counts match. A sale multiple is the price a business typically sells for as a multiple of its earnings. SDE means seller's discretionary earnings, which is the owner's pay plus the profit of the business. EBITDA means earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization.
Construction & Engineering
29,752 related employer businesses in Washington.
General Contracting: 9,869 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Interior Finishing: 5,259 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Landscaping: 3,194 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Foundation & Site Prep: 2,464 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Plumbing: 2,242 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x SDE.
HVAC Services: 2,242 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.6x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Electrical: 2,142 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Civil Engineering: 1,701 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 7.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Roofing & Siding: 1,616 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Carpentry & Framing: 736 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Masonry: 347 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Remediation & Restoration: 182 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Restaurants & Food
17,116 related employer businesses in Washington.
Full-Service Restaurants: 6,724 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Quick-Service & Fast Food: 5,168 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Coffee Shops: 3,088 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Grocery Stores & Markets: 1,587 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Bakeries: 310 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Liquor, Wine & Beer Stores: 239 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Ghost Kitchens. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Financial & Professional Services
14,333 related employer businesses in Washington.
Real Estate Brokerages: 5,670 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x SDE.
Accounting & Tax Practices: 3,377 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Insurance Agencies: 2,598 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Wealth Management: 1,814 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.7x - 4.0x Recurring Revenue.
Private Lending: 712 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Mortgage Brokerages: 162 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Medical Practices
12,406 related employer businesses in Washington.
Dental Practices: 3,633 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Primary & Family Care: 2,880 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE.
Mental & Behavioral Health: 1,810 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Physical Therapy & Rehab: 1,307 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Veterinary Medicine: 919 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 9.0x EBITDA.
Vision & Eye Care: 545 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Home Health & Hospice: 438 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Medical Labs & Imaging: 432 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Specialty Medicine: 274 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Urgent Care Clinics: 168 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Retail Stores
7,678 related employer businesses in Washington.
Fashion, Apparel & Jewelry: 2,017 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Hardware, Garden & Building: 1,626 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE + Inventory.
Health, Beauty & Pharmacy: 1,473 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.8x - 4.2x EBITDA.
Home Decor & Furniture: 969 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Hobby, Toys & Gift Shops: 664 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE + Inventory.
Sporting Goods & Firearms: 522 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.4x SDE.
Electronics & Repair: 407 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Logistics & Transportation
6,069 related employer businesses in Washington.
General Freight Trucking: 3,959 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 3.45x SDE.
Warehousing & Fulfillment: 531 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Freight Brokerage & 3PL: 482 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Last-Mile & Courier: 427 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.76x - 3.32x SDE.
Heavy Haul Transport: 297 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x SDE.
Commercial Moving: 296 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 3.0x SDE.
NEMT & Passenger Transport: 77 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.1x SDE.
Port Drayage. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Automotive & Boat
5,761 related employer businesses in Washington.
Auto Repair: 2,183 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE.
Auto Parts: 976 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Car Dealerships: 925 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2x - 8x Blue Sky + Assets.
Collision Repair: 722 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Car Washes: 428 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Towing & Repo: 294 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Boat Dealerships: 136 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Marinas: 97 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: Cap Rate or 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Manufacturing
5,301 related employer businesses in Washington.
Food & Beverage Manufacturing: 1,617 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.1x - 4.5x SDE.
Metal Fabrication: 1,058 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.2x - 4.2x SDE.
Wood & Furniture Manufacturing: 677 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Printing & Plastics: 576 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.9x - 4.9x SDE.
Medical & Chemical Manufacturing: 520 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Electronics & Tech Manufacturing: 387 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.5x EBITDA.
Construction Materials Manufacturing: 273 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Textile & Apparel Manufacturing: 193 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Home Services
4,670 related employer businesses in Washington.
Residential Cleaning: 2,166 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.6x SDE.
Commercial Cleaning: 2,166 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.47x - 4.11x EBITDA.
Property Management: 2,161 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Pest Control: 220 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.34x - 2.90x SDE.
Security Systems: 123 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.9x EBITDA.
Audio Visual (AV). Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Junk Removal. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 3.0x SDE.
Pool & Spa Service. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x EBITDA.
Beauty & Personal Care
4,350 related employer businesses in Washington.
Hair Salons: 2,168 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.25x - 2.34x SDE.
Nail Salons: 1,234 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.4x - 1.88x SDE.
Day Spas: 756 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE.
Tattoo Shops: 756 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Massage Parlors: 756 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Barber Shops: 192 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.25x SDE.
Medical Spas. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Wholesale & Distribution
3,972 related employer businesses in Washington.
Industrial & Construction Supply: 1,568 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Food & Beverage Distribution: 1,125 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Electronics, IT & Office Equipment Distribution: 598 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Chemicals, Plastics & Raw Materials Distribution: 186 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Consumer Goods & Apparel Distribution: 179 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Medical, Dental & Pharmaceutical Distribution: 165 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Packaging, Paper & JanSan Distribution: 151 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Technology & Media
3,502 related employer businesses in Washington.
Creative Agencies: 931 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 3.0x SDE.
Software Companies (SaaS): 860 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x SDE.
Digital Marketing Agencies: 750 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Media, Film & Studio Production: 577 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.5x SDE.
Real Estate Media: 384 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.8x SDE.
E-commerce & Online Brands. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Senior Care & Living
2,787 related employer businesses in Washington.
Assisted Living Facilities: 1,824 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Non-Medical Home Care: 758 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Senior Living Communities: 205 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Adult Day Services. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Education & Childcare
2,624 related employer businesses in Washington.
Daycare Centers: 2,386 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.39x - 3.35x SDE.
Tutoring Centers: 238 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Preschools. Typical sale multiple: 3.12x - 4.0x SDE.
Gas Stations & Convenience
2,484 related employer businesses in Washington.
Gas Stations: 1,806 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Convenience Stores: 678 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
1,985 related employer businesses in Washington.
Bars & Pubs: 1,004 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Clubs & Lounges: 1,004 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Outdoor Recreation: 674 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Golf Courses: 182 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 8.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Arcades & FECs: 69 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.6x SDE.
Bowling Alleys: 56 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
1,890 related employer businesses in Washington.
Hotels: 1,211 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.6x - 5.1x EBITDA.
Motels: 1,211 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.1x - 2.5x SDE.
Transportation Services: 267 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.1x SDE.
Campgrounds & RV Parks: 186 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Travel Agencies: 168 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.2x SDE.
Bed & Breakfasts / Inns: 58 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Health & Fitness
1,674 related employer businesses in Washington.
Gyms & Health Clubs: 1,054 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 2.93x SDE.
Yoga Studios: 1,054 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.07x - 2.50x SDE.
Pilates Studios: 1,054 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.10x - 3.00x SDE.
Personal Training Studios: 1,054 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.00x - 2.80x SDE.
Wellness & Recovery Centers: 620 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.5x - 9.7x EBITDA.
Pharmacies & Medical Supply
1,494 related employer businesses in Washington.
Compounding Pharmacies: 627 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Specialty Pharmacies: 627 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Home Infusion: 438 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Durable Medical Equipment (DME): 222 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Medical Supply Retail: 207 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Pet Services
1,053 related employer businesses in Washington.
Pet Grooming & Spas: 725 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Boarding, Daycare & Training: 725 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Pet Retail & Specialty Supplies: 328 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE + Inventory.
Mobile & In-Home Pet Care. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE + Fleet.
Energy & Utilities
1,052 related employer businesses in Washington.
Water & Wastewater Services: 419 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Waste Management & Recycling: 340 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Propane & Fuel Distribution: 241 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Oil & Gas Services: 31 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Solar & Renewable Energy: 21 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Land & Agriculture
31 related employer businesses in Washington.
Agricultural Labor Contracting: 31 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 Washington. Counts are employer businesses in the closest Census industry codes. Industries without a clean Census match are listed without a count, and a few industries share one Census category, so their counts match. A sale multiple is the price a business typically sells for as a multiple of its earnings. SDE means seller's discretionary earnings, which is the owner's pay plus the profit of the business. EBITDA means earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization.
Construction & Engineering
29,752 related employer businesses in Washington.
General Contracting: 9,869 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Interior Finishing: 5,259 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Landscaping: 3,194 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Foundation & Site Prep: 2,464 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Plumbing: 2,242 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x SDE.
HVAC Services: 2,242 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.6x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Electrical: 2,142 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Civil Engineering: 1,701 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 7.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Roofing & Siding: 1,616 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Carpentry & Framing: 736 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Masonry: 347 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Remediation & Restoration: 182 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Restaurants & Food
17,116 related employer businesses in Washington.
Full-Service Restaurants: 6,724 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Quick-Service & Fast Food: 5,168 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Coffee Shops: 3,088 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Grocery Stores & Markets: 1,587 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Bakeries: 310 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Liquor, Wine & Beer Stores: 239 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Ghost Kitchens. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Financial & Professional Services
14,333 related employer businesses in Washington.
Real Estate Brokerages: 5,670 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x SDE.
Accounting & Tax Practices: 3,377 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Insurance Agencies: 2,598 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Wealth Management: 1,814 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.7x - 4.0x Recurring Revenue.
Private Lending: 712 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Mortgage Brokerages: 162 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Medical Practices
12,406 related employer businesses in Washington.
Dental Practices: 3,633 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Primary & Family Care: 2,880 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE.
Mental & Behavioral Health: 1,810 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Physical Therapy & Rehab: 1,307 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Veterinary Medicine: 919 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 9.0x EBITDA.
Vision & Eye Care: 545 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Home Health & Hospice: 438 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Medical Labs & Imaging: 432 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Specialty Medicine: 274 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Urgent Care Clinics: 168 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Retail Stores
7,678 related employer businesses in Washington.
Fashion, Apparel & Jewelry: 2,017 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Hardware, Garden & Building: 1,626 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE + Inventory.
Health, Beauty & Pharmacy: 1,473 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.8x - 4.2x EBITDA.
Home Decor & Furniture: 969 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Hobby, Toys & Gift Shops: 664 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE + Inventory.
Sporting Goods & Firearms: 522 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.4x SDE.
Electronics & Repair: 407 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Logistics & Transportation
6,069 related employer businesses in Washington.
General Freight Trucking: 3,959 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 3.45x SDE.
Warehousing & Fulfillment: 531 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Freight Brokerage & 3PL: 482 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Last-Mile & Courier: 427 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.76x - 3.32x SDE.
Heavy Haul Transport: 297 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x SDE.
Commercial Moving: 296 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 3.0x SDE.
NEMT & Passenger Transport: 77 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.1x SDE.
Port Drayage. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Automotive & Boat
5,761 related employer businesses in Washington.
Auto Repair: 2,183 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE.
Auto Parts: 976 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Car Dealerships: 925 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2x - 8x Blue Sky + Assets.
Collision Repair: 722 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Car Washes: 428 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Towing & Repo: 294 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Boat Dealerships: 136 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Marinas: 97 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: Cap Rate or 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Manufacturing
5,301 related employer businesses in Washington.
Food & Beverage Manufacturing: 1,617 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.1x - 4.5x SDE.
Metal Fabrication: 1,058 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.2x - 4.2x SDE.
Wood & Furniture Manufacturing: 677 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Printing & Plastics: 576 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.9x - 4.9x SDE.
Medical & Chemical Manufacturing: 520 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Electronics & Tech Manufacturing: 387 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.5x EBITDA.
Construction Materials Manufacturing: 273 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Textile & Apparel Manufacturing: 193 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Home Services
4,670 related employer businesses in Washington.
Residential Cleaning: 2,166 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.6x SDE.
Commercial Cleaning: 2,166 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.47x - 4.11x EBITDA.
Property Management: 2,161 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Pest Control: 220 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.34x - 2.90x SDE.
Security Systems: 123 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.9x EBITDA.
Audio Visual (AV). Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Junk Removal. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 3.0x SDE.
Pool & Spa Service. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x EBITDA.
Beauty & Personal Care
4,350 related employer businesses in Washington.
Hair Salons: 2,168 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.25x - 2.34x SDE.
Nail Salons: 1,234 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.4x - 1.88x SDE.
Day Spas: 756 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE.
Tattoo Shops: 756 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Massage Parlors: 756 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Barber Shops: 192 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.25x SDE.
Medical Spas. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Wholesale & Distribution
3,972 related employer businesses in Washington.
Industrial & Construction Supply: 1,568 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Food & Beverage Distribution: 1,125 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Electronics, IT & Office Equipment Distribution: 598 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Chemicals, Plastics & Raw Materials Distribution: 186 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Consumer Goods & Apparel Distribution: 179 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Medical, Dental & Pharmaceutical Distribution: 165 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Packaging, Paper & JanSan Distribution: 151 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Technology & Media
3,502 related employer businesses in Washington.
Creative Agencies: 931 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 3.0x SDE.
Software Companies (SaaS): 860 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x SDE.
Digital Marketing Agencies: 750 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Media, Film & Studio Production: 577 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.5x SDE.
Real Estate Media: 384 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.8x SDE.
E-commerce & Online Brands. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Senior Care & Living
2,787 related employer businesses in Washington.
Assisted Living Facilities: 1,824 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Non-Medical Home Care: 758 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Senior Living Communities: 205 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Adult Day Services. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Education & Childcare
2,624 related employer businesses in Washington.
Daycare Centers: 2,386 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.39x - 3.35x SDE.
Tutoring Centers: 238 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Preschools. Typical sale multiple: 3.12x - 4.0x SDE.
Gas Stations & Convenience
2,484 related employer businesses in Washington.
Gas Stations: 1,806 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Convenience Stores: 678 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
1,985 related employer businesses in Washington.
Bars & Pubs: 1,004 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Clubs & Lounges: 1,004 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Outdoor Recreation: 674 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Golf Courses: 182 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 8.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Arcades & FECs: 69 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.6x SDE.
Bowling Alleys: 56 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
1,890 related employer businesses in Washington.
Hotels: 1,211 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.6x - 5.1x EBITDA.
Motels: 1,211 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.1x - 2.5x SDE.
Transportation Services: 267 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.1x SDE.
Campgrounds & RV Parks: 186 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Travel Agencies: 168 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.2x SDE.
Bed & Breakfasts / Inns: 58 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Health & Fitness
1,674 related employer businesses in Washington.
Gyms & Health Clubs: 1,054 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 2.93x SDE.
Yoga Studios: 1,054 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.07x - 2.50x SDE.
Pilates Studios: 1,054 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.10x - 3.00x SDE.
Personal Training Studios: 1,054 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.00x - 2.80x SDE.
Wellness & Recovery Centers: 620 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.5x - 9.7x EBITDA.
Pharmacies & Medical Supply
1,494 related employer businesses in Washington.
Compounding Pharmacies: 627 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Specialty Pharmacies: 627 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Home Infusion: 438 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Durable Medical Equipment (DME): 222 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Medical Supply Retail: 207 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Pet Services
1,053 related employer businesses in Washington.
Pet Grooming & Spas: 725 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Boarding, Daycare & Training: 725 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Pet Retail & Specialty Supplies: 328 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE + Inventory.
Mobile & In-Home Pet Care. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE + Fleet.
Energy & Utilities
1,052 related employer businesses in Washington.
Water & Wastewater Services: 419 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Waste Management & Recycling: 340 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Propane & Fuel Distribution: 241 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Oil & Gas Services: 31 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Solar & Renewable Energy: 21 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Land & Agriculture
31 related employer businesses in Washington.
Agricultural Labor Contracting: 31 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.4x - 6.09x EBITDA.
Crop Production. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 6.69x EBITDA.
Livestock & Ranching. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.76x EBITDA.
Agribusiness & Infrastructure. Typical sale multiple: 5.2x - 10.3x EBITDA.
AgTech & Precision Ag. Typical sale multiple: 8.3x - 12.1x EBITDA.
Agri-Tourism & Lifestyle. Typical sale multiple: 2.51x - 4.54x SDE.
E-commerce & Online Businesses
Amazon FBA Businesses. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Online Marketplaces. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 6.0x SDE.
Metro areas in this state
Counties
Working with owners in Washington
Business Advisors of America works with owners who are selling a business in Washington. Contact us to talk about a sale.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Questions owners in Washington ask
How long does it take to sell a business in Washington?
The time depends on the price, the quality of the records and the number of qualified buyers. Many sales take six months or longer from the start of the process to closing.
How is a business valued in Washington?
Valuation starts with the earnings the business produces for an owner, then adjusts for assets, size, industry and the terms a buyer is likely to accept. The result is a range, and the asking price is set inside it.
Is the sale confidential?
Buyers are asked to sign a non-disclosure agreement before they see the name of the business or its financial statements.
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 Washington
October 3, 2025
Business Owners
Add-Backs: What Counts, What Does Not, and What Buyers Push Back On
Every add-back you can prove raises your sale price by two to three times its amount. Every add-back you cannot prove costs you credibility on all the others.
Read article
October 3, 2025
Business Owners
Add-Backs: What Counts, What Does Not, and What Buyers Push Back On
Every add-back you can prove raises your sale price by two to three times its amount. Every add-back you cannot prove costs you credibility on all the others.
Read article
March 5, 2026
Business Owners
Buyer Qualification: How We Screen Out the Buyers Who Cannot Close
Most inquiries on a business listing come from people who cannot close. Here is how they get screened out before they see your name or your financials.
Read article
March 5, 2026
Business Owners
Buyer Qualification: How We Screen Out the Buyers Who Cannot Close
Most inquiries on a business listing come from people who cannot close. Here is how they get screened out before they see your name or your financials.
Read article
February 9, 2026
Business Owners
The Confidential Information Memorandum: What Goes In It and Why
The CIM is the document a buyer reads before they decide to spend time on your business. Here is what it has to contain and the mistakes that cost sellers offers.
Read article
February 9, 2026
Business Owners
The Confidential Information Memorandum: What Goes In It and Why
The CIM is the document a buyer reads before they decide to spend time on your business. Here is what it has to contain and the mistakes that cost sellers offers.
Read article