If you’re opening a business that serves or sells alcohol in Los Angeles County, securing the correct liquor license is essential. Whether you’re a restaurant aiming for a Type 47 license, a bar or nightclub owner needing a Type 48 license, or a retail store seeking a Type 20 or 21 license, understanding the costs and regulations in Los Angeles County will help streamline the process. At License Locators, we make navigating the complexities of obtaining a liquor license in this highly competitive market easier.

Types of Liquor Licenses for Sale in Los Angeles County, CA

In Los Angeles County, on and off-sale liquor licenses are subject to quotas, meaning certain types need to be purchased from an existing license holder. Determining the appropriate license for your business depends on the type of alcohol you plan to sell and the nature of your operation. Below are some of the most common license types in Los Angeles County:

• Type 20 License: This license allows the sale of beer and wine for off-premises consumption. It is ideal for convenience stores and grocery stores. In Los Angeles County, a Type 20 license typically costs around $7,000 plus additional escrow, transfer, and broker fees.
• Type 21 License: This license permits the sale of beer, wine, and distilled spirits for off-premises consumption. Type 21 licenses in Los Angeles County typically cost between $15,000 and $17,000, in addition to other fees like escrow and brokerage.

Our Comp data shows the following recent sales of Off Sale General, Type 21 Licenses in Los Angeles County:

Recent Sales:
License 26849 sold on 9/11/24 for $15,000
License 602295 sold on 8/13/24 for $16,000
License 591567 sold on 7/25/24 for $18,000

• Type 47/48 License: Highly sought after by restaurants and bars, these licenses allow for the sale of beer, wine, and spirits for on-site consumption. The cost of a Type 47 or 48 license in Los Angeles County generally ranges from $115,000 to $127,000 due to high demand and limited availability.

Our Comp data shows the following recent sales of On-Sale General, Type 47 or Type 48, Licenses in Los Angeles County:

Recent Sales:
License 615009 sold on 10/03/24 for $127,000
License 567843 sold on 10/03/24 for $125,000
License 591154 sold on 10/03/24 for $125,000

Cost Breakdown of Los Angeles County Liquor Licenses

The cost of purchasing a liquor license in Los Angeles County varies based on several factors, including the type of license and the current market demand. Below is an estimate of the prices:

• Type 20 License: $7,000
• Type 21 License: $15,000–$17,000
• Type 47/48 License: $115,000–$127,000

  

Additional Costs:

• Finder’s Fees: Using a broker to locate and purchase a liquor license typically involves an additional fee of around 10% of the purchase price or a flat fee for licenses under $30,000.
• Escrow Fees: Escrow fees usually range between $1,500 to $2,000, depending on the company managing the transaction.
• License Transfer Fees: When purchasing a license from an existing business, California Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) transfer fees range between $1,000 to $4,000. The transfer process can take several months, so it’s vital to plan accordingly.

 

Factors Influencing Liquor License Costs in Los Angeles County

A number of elements impact the price of liquor licenses in Los Angeles County:

• Supply and Demand: Los Angeles County, being a densely populated region with a strong hospitality and tourism sector, has high demand for liquor licenses. The California ABC limits the number of new licenses issued each year, which creates competition. Prices for on-sale licenses (such as Type 47 and 48) are driven up by demand from businesses in popular areas like Downtown Los Angeles, West Hollywood, and Santa Monica.
• Regulatory Restrictions: In some areas, local regulations may limit the issuance of new liquor licenses or impose stricter requirements. For example, some city ordinances might require potential buyers to purchase and transfer a license from within their own city or even a specific neighborhood.
• Tourism and Development: Los Angeles County is a hub for tourism and business development. New hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues frequently open, intensifying the competition for available licenses. Areas like Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and downtown Los Angeles tend to see especially high demand for on-sale licenses.

 

Let License Locators Help You Secure the Right Los Angeles County Liquor License

Acquiring the proper liquor license for your Los Angeles County business can be a complicated process, but you don’t have to go through it alone. At License Locators, we specialize in helping businesses find, buy, and sell liquor licenses throughout California. Whether you’re opening a new restaurant and need a Type 47 license or running a retail business that requires a Type 20 or 21 license, we are here to assist. Our expert brokers will guide you through every step, ensuring that you minimize risks and avoid costly errors. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you secure the right license for your Los Angeles County business.

Values listed are a reasonable approximation based on sale trend information.
Prices fluctuate on a daily bases for current values contact our office.