

There are more than 69,500 drinking places and bars operating in the United States, according to the U.S. Census Bureau and industry reports. These establishments generate an estimated $36 billion in annual sales and employ more than 1.1 million people nationwide. From neighborhood taverns and sports bars to cocktail lounges, pubs, and entertainment venues, bars remain an important segment of the hospitality industry and a popular business ownership opportunity.
Bars for sale are something many buyers explore due to the industry's diverse business models and strong consumer demand for social gathering spaces. Opportunities range from local pubs and sports bars to upscale cocktail lounges, wine bars, brewery taprooms, and high-volume entertainment venues. Many bar owners benefit from recurring customer traffic, event-driven sales, and opportunities to increase revenue through food service, live entertainment, and private events.
It's no wonder those buying a business flock to bars for sale offered by Restaurant Brokers. Bars are a cornerstone of the hospitality industry, serving millions of customers each year. Strong local followings, established customer bases, and multiple revenue streams make bars attractive opportunities for both first-time and experienced business owners.
The bar industry continues to benefit from consumer demand for social experiences, nightlife, and entertainment. Combined with more than 69,000 establishments nationwide, annual sales exceeding $36 billion, and employment of more than 1 million workers, these factors make bar ownership an attractive investment opportunity across the United States.
Additional Resources for Buying a Bar or Pub
Buying a Bar for Sale is a team sport and you may need all kinds of help. Our Certified Restaurant Broker© team has plenty of resources and aid for you. Here’s a starting point for the most common requests:
We also have an extensive video library on our We Sell Restaurants YouTube channel - with several videos including this one on turning your bar into a money-making machine or how to get a liquor license when buying a bar.

Bars for sale are typically one of our most searched and fastest moving inventory. What makes this category of listings so appealing and who is doing the buying?




Getting a liquor license when buying a bar may required specialized assistance. Requirements vary by location.




Do you buy a bar for sale where the earnings are off the books? Read more about how you need to validate earnings on these transactions from We Sell Restaurants.


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We Sell Restaurants Interview Experts on how to turn the greatest profit on bars. Make your location into a money making machine with these tips.




Buying a Bar does not have to be a risky situation. The team at We Sell Restaurants has these tips for you on confirming earnings.




This article will walk you through the do's and don'ts of how to buy a bar. Find out what to look for, what to avoid, and more. Learn from the experts and get all tips and tricks before you buy a bar.




Every state has their own requirements but the transfer of a liquor license to a restaurant buyer will be approved provided the application of a purchaser is approved by the State Licensing board.





















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Frequently Asked Questions: Bars for Sale
What is the average price of a bar for sale? Independent bars typically list between $75,000 and $750,000. High-volume bars, entertainment venues, and premium locations can sell for more than $1 million.
Can I buy a bar with an SBA loan? Yes. Many bar acquisitions qualify for SBA 7(a) financing, particularly those with strong financial records and food sales. We Sell Restaurants can connect buyers with experienced hospitality lenders.
How long does it take to sell a bar? Most sales close within 3 to 9 months. Clean financials, transferable licensing, favorable lease terms, and qualified buyers help transactions move faster.
What is my bar worth? Valuations are typically 2 to 4x Seller's Discretionary Earnings (SDE), adjusted for liquor sales, location, lease terms, equipment, licensing, and historical financial performance.
How do I sell my bar? Start with a free valuation from a Certified Restaurant Broker. We handle confidential marketing, buyer qualification, negotiations, and transaction management.
What licenses do I need to take over a bar? Requirements vary by state and local jurisdiction but generally include a liquor license, business license, sales tax registration, Certificate of Occupancy, and any applicable health permits if food is served.
Do I need a broker to buy or sell a bar? Not legally, but a Certified Restaurant Broker helps maintain confidentiality, qualify buyers, coordinate licensing transfers, manage due diligence, and guide the transaction from listing to closing.
Is We Sell Restaurants a franchise? Yes, We Sell Restaurants is itself a franchise opportunity, not just a service provider to restaurant franchises. Franchisees become Certified Restaurant Brokers™ through our structured onboarding process, then use We Sell Restaurants' proprietary BOSS (Broker's Operations and Sales System) platform and Restaurant For Sale marketplace to help entrepreneurs buy, sell and lease hospitality properties in their territory
Bars for Sale – 5 Important Tips for Buyers
See MoreBuying a Bar and Getting a Liquor License
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See MoreTurning Your Bar into a Money Making Machine
See MoreHow to Buy a Bar - Tips on Evaluating Cash Flow
See MoreHow to Buy a Bar - Do's and Don'ts
See MoreDoes the Liquor License Transfer When I Buy a Restaurant?
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