Merced County, located in California’s Central Valley, is home to a growing economy and a diverse mix of businesses, including restaurants, bars, and retail stores. Whether you’re opening a new establishment or expanding an existing one, securing the right liquor license is essential for operating legally. At License Locators, we specialize in helping businesses buy and sell liquor licenses efficiently, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free process.

Types of Liquor Licenses in Merced County

Merced County offers several types of liquor licenses to accommodate different business models. Below is an overview of the most common license types and their costs:

Type 20 License (Off-Sale Beer and Wine)

A Type 20 license allows businesses to sell beer and wine for off-premises consumption. These licenses are commonly used by grocery stores, liquor shops, and convenience stores. In Merced County and throughout California, the cost of a Type 20 license is currently $5,000.  Additional escrow and transfer fees may apply.

Type 21 License (Off-Sale General)

Type 21 licenses permit the sale of beer, wine, and distilled spirits for off-premises consumption. These licenses are typically sought by liquor stores and larger retail outlets in Merced County. Prices generally range between $150,000 and $160,000, depending on availability and demand.

Type 47 License (On-Sale General for Restaurants, Bars and Nightclubs)

A Type 47 license is required for restaurants that wish to serve beer, wine, and spirits for on-premises consumption. With the restaurant industry growing in Merced and surrounding areas, these licenses are in demand. Type 48 licenses are designed for bars, nightclubs, and lounges where alcohol is served without requiring food service. Prices typically range from $40,000 to $60,000.

Merced County On-Sale License Comps for Restaurants, Bars and Nightclubs:
License 610245 sold 10/5/2024 for $50,000
License 625467 sold 9/18/2024 for $55,000
License 635789 sold 8/25/2024 for $58,000

Factors Influencing Liquor License Costs in Merced County

Several factors affect liquor license prices in Merced County, including:

• Economic Growth and Development:
  As Merced County continues to grow, particularly with investments in the University of California, Merced, the demand for liquor licenses has increased.
• Limited License Availability:
  The California Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) regulates the number of licenses issued, leading to competitive pricing for certain license types.
• Additional Fees and Costs:
  Businesses should consider escrow and transfer fees, which typically range from $1,500 to $3,500, depending on the complexity of the transaction.

  

How License Locators Can Help

Navigating the liquor license process in Merced County can be challenging, but License Locators makes it easy. Our experienced team provides guidance on securing the right license, handling paperwork, and ensuring compliance with ABC regulations. Whether you’re buying or selling, we streamline the process for a stress-free experience.

Contact License Locators Today

If you’re ready to secure a liquor license in Merced County, License Locators is here to help. Whether you’re opening a restaurant in Merced, a bar in Atwater, or a retail store in Los Banos, we can assist in obtaining the right license. Contact us today to get started!

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