Reviewed September 2026 · By www.liquorlicensebrokers.com
The cost depends on the liquor license type, county, whether you are applying for a new liquor license or buying an existing one, and what the local jurisdiction requires at your premises. A state application fee is only one part of a purchase budget. For transferable general liquor licenses, the seller’s price can be the largest part and may change with local supply and demand.
Build the full budget
| Cost | What it covers |
|---|---|
| Liquor license purchase price | Negotiated amount paid to a seller when purchasing an existing liquor license; varies by type and county. |
| ABC application fees | State fees for the specific application or transfer, according to ABC’s current schedule. |
| Escrow and transaction costs | Applicable escrow, notice, and transaction expenses for a purchase. |
| Broker and consulting fees | Help finding a liquor license, negotiating a sale, and preparing or coordinating the application. |
| Local permits and plans | City or county land use fees, plans, notices, and hearings when required. |
Why county matters
General liquor license availability and private-sale asking prices vary by county. A Type 47 in one county is not automatically priced like a Type 47 in another. The liquor license also needs to fit the buyer’s proposed premises and transaction. Ask for a current quote tied to the liquor license type and county rather than relying on an old statewide price list.
New liquor license or existing liquor license?
ABC offers several application routes. In some cases a business can apply for a new liquor license; in others a buyer pursues a person-to-person transfer of an existing one. ABC also conducts priority registration drawings for certain general liquor license types. Eligibility, availability, and timing differ. The lowest listed application fee does not necessarily represent the full cost to open.
Questions to answer before paying a deposit
- Which liquor license type supports your planned alcohol sales?
- What county and exact premises will the liquor license serve?
- Are there existing liquor license conditions, liens, disciplinary matters, or local restrictions to review?
- Will a city or county require a conditional use permit or another land use approval?
- Who pays the ABC, escrow, broker, notice, and permit costs under the purchase agreement?
Use ABC’s current application fee schedule for state fees. For a current market estimate, tell us the county, liquor license type, and whether you are buying or selling. We can discuss the likely transaction components before you commit.