Long Island, New York, is a dynamic hub for small and mid-sized businesses—from waterfront restaurants and salons to manufacturing companies and medical practices. Whether you’re a buyer looking to become your own boss or a seller planning your next chapter, this guide will help you navigate the business-for-sale market in Long Island effectively.
Why Buy a Business in Long Island?
Long Island combines suburban charm with proximity to New York City. It offers a unique blend of steady foot traffic, affluent neighborhoods, and strong industry diversity. Key benefits of buying a business here include:
- Access to over 7 million residents
- Proximity to NYC without NYC overhead
- Diverse customer base & skilled labor pool
- Thriving industries: hospitality, construction, healthcare, tech, and retail
Best Types of Businesse for Sale Long Island
Long Island offers opportunities across Nassau and Suffolk counties. Here are the most in-demand businesses for sale:
Restaurants & Cafés
From seafood shacks to upscale dining, Long Island’s food scene is always growing. Look for:
- High-traffic locations (beaches, downtowns)
- Turnkey equipment and liquor licenses
- Existing customer base
Auto Repair & Car Washes
With suburban sprawl comes vehicle dependency. Auto-related businesses often include:
- Long-term lease agreements
- Loyal local customers
- High cash flow margins
Hair Salons & Spas
Service-based businesses like salons and barbershops are perfect for owner-operators.
- Often low overhead
- Repeat clientele
- Easy to personalize branding
Franchise Businesses
Buy into a proven brand with built-in marketing and support.
- Dunkin’, Subway, UPS Store, etc.
- Semi-absentee ownership options
- Brand equity and customer trust
Professional Practices
- Dental offices
- Accounting firms
- Medical clinics
These can be highly profitable and come with established client books.
Popular Locations in Long Island to Buy a Business
Huntington & North Shore
Upscale retail, health & wellness, and restaurant opportunities thrive in these affluent neighborhoods.
Garden City & Nassau County
Great for professional services, auto repair, and franchise resale options due to proximity to major highways and LIRR stations.
Patchogue & South Shore
Boasts seasonal tourist traffic and strong demand for hospitality, rental, and entertainment businesses.
East End (Hamptons & Montauk)
Best for seasonal luxury businesses—ideal for boutique hotels, real estate firms, or lifestyle brands.
How Much Does a Business Cost in Long Island?
The cost of buying a business in Long Island depends on industry, location, and cash flow. Here’s a rough range:
| Business Type | Price Range |
| Coffee Shop / Small Café | $75,000 – $250,000 |
| Auto Repair / Car Wash | $100,000 – $500,000+ |
| Retail Store / Boutique | $50,000 – $300,000 |
| Medical / Dental Practice | $250,000 – $1M+ |
| Franchise (e.g., Subway) | $100,000 – $400,000+ |
Where to Find a Business for Sale Long Island
Online Marketplaces
- BizBuySell
- LoopNet
- BusinessBroker.net
- Craigslist (use caution)
- FranchiseGator
Business Brokers in Long Island
A local business broker can:
- Match you with vetted sellers
- Help with valuation and negotiation
- Assist with due diligence
Popular brokers include:
- East Coast Business Brokers
- Vested Business Brokers
- WeSellRestaurants Long Island Division
Steps to Buying a Business in Long Island
- Define your goals & budget
- Search for listings or work with a broker
- Sign a non-disclosure agreement (NDA)
- Analyze financials (P&L, tax returns, leases)
- Negotiate purchase price and terms
- Secure financing if needed (SBA loan, private lender)
- Close the deal & transition operations
Tips for Selling a Business in Long Island
If you’re looking to sell:
- Get a professional business valuation
- Organize 3 years of financials
- Improve curb appeal and operational efficiency
- Work with a local broker to reach qualified buyers
- Prepare a detailed transition/training plan
Conclusion
Absolutely. Long Island offers the perfect blend of suburban demand, urban access, and entrepreneurial opportunity. Whether you’re looking for a seasonal Hamptons business, a year-round café in Huntington, or a growing franchise in Nassau County, businesses for sale in Long Island offer high potential when approached strategically.
The key is to know your goals, do your homework, and surround yourself with local experts.
FAQs
1. What is the average cost of buying a small business in Long Island?
Small businesses can range from $50,000 to $500,000+, depending on the type, location, and profitability.
2. Can I finance the purchase of a business in Long Island?
Yes. You can use SBA loans, seller financing, or private lenders to fund the acquisition. Many deals include 10%–30% down payments.
3. How long does it take to buy a business?
On average, it takes 60 to 120 days from search to closing, depending on financing, negotiations, and due diligence.
4. Are franchise businesses available for resale in Long Island?
Yes. Many existing franchise units like Dunkin’, Subway, UPS Store, and Baskin-Robbins are for resale with proven performance.
5. Is it better to buy an existing business or start one from scratch?
Buying an existing business offers:
- Established customer base
- Proven revenue
- Trained staff and systems
It often leads to quicker profitability compared to starting from zero.
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