Buy or Sell a Bar, Pub, or Sports Bar in California
California is one of the most active bar and nightlife business markets in the country. With a 365-day lifestyle economy, major sports markets including the LA Lakers, Dodgers, Warriors, and Giants driving year-round sports bar demand, and an ABC licensing system that makes existing on-sale liquor licenses highly valuable, California bars and taverns offer compelling cash flow for experienced operators. BizBen features verified listings from neighborhood dive bars to high-volume sports bars and craft cocktail lounges.
California Bar and Nightlife Market Snapshot
- Number of Businesses: 1 listings
- Average Asking Price: $425,000
- Average Revenue: $0
- Average Cash Flow: $0
California Bar Market Insight
Type 48 on-sale general licenses in moratorium neighborhoods can be worth $200,000-$600,000+ independently of the underlying business. West Hollywood's Santa Monica Boulevard, Hollywood's Highland and Cahuenga corridors, San Francisco's SoMa and Mission Districts, and San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter are the most active bar and nightlife acquisition markets. California's 2:00 AM last call law is a key operational constraint — buyers should verify entertainment permits and conditional use permits (CUPs) before completing any acquisition. Sports bars with NFL Sunday Ticket and consistent game-day revenue are among the most sought-after categories on BizBen.
Why Invest in a California Bar or Sports Bar
- California's major sports markets — Lakers, Dodgers, Warriors, Giants — drive consistent year-round sports bar demand
- ABC on-sale general licenses in moratorium markets carry $200,000-$600,000+ in standalone value
- 365-day economy with year-round tourist traffic, live music, and event-driven revenue
- Entertainment permits and CUPs provide competitive moats that are difficult for new entrants to replicate
California remains the most active state for bar and nightlife business acquisitions in the country.
Selling Your California Bar or Sports Bar?
Thinking about selling your bar? BizBen connects sellers with qualified buyers and experienced brokers who understand California ABC licensing, CUP transfers, entertainment permits, and on-sale liquor license transactions.
FAQs
How many bars and sports bars are currently for sale in California?
There are currently 1 active bar, pub, sports bar, and lounge listings across California on BizBen.
What is the average price of a bar for sale in California?
Neighborhood dive bars can sell for $50,000-$150,000 while high-volume venues in WeHo or SoMa with full liquor licenses and entertainment permits can exceed $1M+. The current average asking price on BizBen is $425,000.
What is the difference between a Type 47 and Type 48 ABC license?
A Type 47 requires bona fide food service. A Type 48 is a bar-only license with no food requirement. Type 47s are more operationally flexible; Type 48s can carry more value in pure nightlife corridors.
Can I finance a bar purchase in California?
Yes, though some lenders restrict alcohol-heavy businesses. SBA 7(a) loans are available and seller financing is common. Brokers on BizBen can connect you with experienced lenders.
What permits do I need to operate a bar in California?
In addition to an ABC license, California bars typically require a business license, health permit, entertainment permit, and potentially a conditional use permit. All must be verified as current and transferable.