Securing the proper liquor license is essential for any business planning to sell or serve alcohol in San Francisco County, California. As a hub for vibrant nightlife, dining, and retail, the demand for liquor licenses in San Francisco is competitive. At License Locators, we specialize in guiding businesses through the process of acquiring or selling liquor licenses in San Francisco County, ensuring a smooth transaction every step of the way.

Types of Liquor Licenses in San Francisco County

San Francisco County offers a variety of liquor licenses, each tailored to specific business needs. Below are the most common types and their associated costs:

Type 20 License (Off-Sale Beer and Wine)

A Type 20 license allows businesses to sell beer and wine for off-premises consumption. This license is ideal for grocery stores, liquor shops, and convenience stores. In San Francisco County and across California, the cost of a Type 20 license is fixed at $7,000. Additional escrow and transfer fees may apply depending on the specifics of the transaction.

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 popular among liquor stores and larger retail businesses in San Francisco. Prices for Type 21 licenses generally range between $17,000 and $30,000, reflecting the high demand and competitive market in the area.

Recent Sales:
License 564152 sold 7/23/2024 for $35,000
License 240938 sold 7/2/2024 for $35,000
License 22055 sold 6/27/2024 for $35,000

Type 47, 48  License (On-Sale General for Restaurants, Bars, and Nightclubs)

The Type 47 license is essential for restaurants that wish to serve beer, wine, and spirits for on-premises consumption. San Francisco’s dynamic restaurant scene makes this license highly sought after. Type 48 licenses are designed for bars, lounges, and nightclubs where alcohol is served without the need for food service. Costs for Type 47 and 48 licenses typically range from $155,000 to $190,000, depending on the location and demand.

San Francisco County On-Sale License Comps for Restaurants, Bars, and Nightclubs:
License 448724 sold 12/3/2024 for $190,000
License 40688 sold 11/20/2024 for $165,000
License 534107 sold 11/7/2024 for $155,000

Factors Influencing Liquor License Costs in San Francisco County

Liquor license costs in San Francisco County are influenced by a variety of factors, including:

• High Demand in Urban Areas:
  San Francisco’s dense population and thriving tourism industry drive up demand for liquor licenses, particularly in popular neighborhoods like the Mission District, North Beach, and SoMa.
• Supply Limitations:
  California Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) imposes strict quotas on the number of licenses issued, especially for on-sale licenses like Type 47 and Type 48. Limited availability often results in higher costs.
• Escrow and Transfer Fees:
  Additional costs for escrow services and license transfers are common. These fees generally range from $2,000 to $4,000, depending on the complexity of the transaction.

 

How License Locators Can Help

Navigating the competitive market for liquor licenses in San Francisco County can be challenging, but License Locators is here to make the process seamless. Our experienced team works closely with buyers and sellers to ensure compliance with California ABC regulations, negotiate favorable terms, and manage all necessary paperwork.

Contact License Locators Today

If you’re ready to secure a liquor license in San Francisco County, License Locators is your trusted partner. Whether you’re opening a restaurant in the Mission District, a bar in North Beach, or a retail shop in SoMa, our team has the expertise to simplify the process. Contact us today to get started and take the first step toward your business’s success!

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