The Silver Tsunami is Swelling: Top States Leading the Way in 2024
The "silver tsunami" of business transactions is rolling across the United States, driven by the retirement of baby boomers who are selling their businesses. Every year, over 200,000 small businesses change hands across the country. Among the states seeing the most action are Texas, Florid
Samson JagorasPrincipal & CEO/CIOFebruary 23, 2025
The "silver tsunami" of business transactions is rolling across the United States, driven by the retirement of baby boomers who are selling their businesses. Every year, over 200,000 small businesses change hands across the country. Among the states seeing the most action are Texas, Florida, California, and North Carolina. These states offer unique advantages that make them prime spots for buying and selling businesses.
Let's dive into what makes these states so attractive.
Texas: The Business Boom State
Number of Transactions: Over 3,500 small businesses bought and sold in the first half of 2024.
Why Texas?:
- No Income Tax: Texas doesn't tax corporate earnings, making it a great place to run a business.
- Diverse Economy: With strong sectors in technology, energy, healthcare, and logistics, there's something for everyone.
- Skilled Workforce: Texas boasts a large pool of educated and skilled workers, ready to support a variety of industries.
With its favorable tax environment and robust economy, it's no wonder Texas is a top spot for business deals (U.S. Chamber of Commerce) (Office of Advocacy).
Florida: Sunshine and Business Opportunities
Number of Transactions: Around 3,000 small businesses bought and sold in the first half of 2024.
Why Florida?:
- Large Population and Tourism: A steady stream of customers thanks to a large population and thriving tourism industry.
- Business-Friendly Taxes: Florida's tax policies are great for businesses.
- Diverse Business Market: From health food franchises to commercial cleaning services, a wide range of businesses are thriving here.
Florida’s vibrant market and business-friendly environment make it a hotbed for small business transactions (Census.gov).
California: The Land of Innovation
Number of Transactions: Approximately 2,800 small businesses bought and sold in the first half of 2024.
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Why California?:
- Innovative Climate: Known for its tech startups and health sectors, California attracts a lot of entrepreneurial activity.
- Huge Market: With such a large and diverse population, the opportunities for business growth are endless.
- Economic Variety: Supporting a wide range of industries, California is versatile for business transactions.
Despite higher costs, California’s innovative spirit and large market size keep it at the forefront of business activity (Office of Advocacy) (Census.gov).
North Carolina: The Pro-Business Haven
Number of Transactions: Over 2,000 small businesses bought and sold in the first half of 2024.
Why North Carolina?:
- Pro-Business Policies: Low taxes and a supportive business environment make it a favorite for entrepreneurs.
- Educated Workforce: A highly educated workforce, especially in technology and manufacturing.
- Economic Growth: Rapid development in key industries ensures a thriving market for buying and selling businesses.
North Carolina’s supportive policies and skilled labor force make it a prime location for small business transactions (U.S. Chamber of Commerce) (Office of Advocacy).
The silver tsunami of business transactions is transforming the small business landscape across the U.S. Texas, Florida, California, and North Carolina are leading the charge, offering unique benefits that make them ideal for buying and selling businesses. Whether you're an entrepreneur looking to buy or sell, these states provide promising opportunities and a supportive environment to help you succeed.
About the author
Principal & CEO/CIO
Samson Jagoras has 15+ years across finance, real estate, and business acquisitions. He began his career as a Futures & Commodities broker and later served as Chief Strategy Officer of an INC 500 marketing and technology firm, helping scale revenue from $1M to over $100M. Today he buys, builds, and advises a portfolio of companies with a focus on M&A, capital allocation, and operational strategy.