Thinking of opening a liquor store in California? Or maybe expanding your retail business to include alcohol sales?

Before you stock your first bottle, there’s one big question you need to answer: How much is a liquor license for a liquor store? Spoiler: it’s not cheap. But knowing what you’re up against helps you plan.

Let’s break it all down.

Different License Types, Different Prices

In California, the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) oversees liquor licenses. For liquor stores, the most common type is a Type 21 license. This allows the sale of beer, wine, and spirits for off-site consumption.

If you’re planning a smaller operation—like a convenience store that only sells beer and wine—you’ll likely need a Type 20 license.

Each comes with different rules, costs, and application processes.

So, How Much Does a Liquor Store License Cost?

Let’s get into numbers.

The liquor store license fee for a Type 21 license can vary a lot based on supply and demand in your county. Here’s a rough idea:

  • New Type 21 License: Starts at around $13,800
  • Type 20 Beer & Wine Only License: About $400 – $800
  • Transferred License (Secondary Market): Could cost $25,000 to $400,000+

Yes, you read that right. If you’re in a high-demand area—like Los Angeles or San Francisco—the cost to get a liquor license for a store can shoot through the roof.

That’s because California has a quota system. Only so many licenses are issued per area. If no new ones are available, you have to buy one from a current owner. That’s where the price jumps.

Additional Costs You Should Expect

Besides the liquor license cost for a liquor store, you’ll also face:

  • Application Fees
  • Background Checks
  • Zoning and Planning Approvals
  • Public Notification Costs
  • Consultant or Broker Fees (if you use one)

These extras can add another $2,000–$10,000 to your budget. Every city and county is different, so your final liquor store license fee could vary.

Price of a Liquor License for Retail Stores on the Resale Market

Many first-time owners get surprised here.

If no new licenses are available, your only option is to buy an existing one. This is called the resale market. Prices depend on:

  • Location
  • License type
  • Demand in your area

Some licenses go for six figures. A well-placed store in a busy district with foot traffic? That license will cost more. So when you ask, how much does a liquor store license cost, remember it’s not just about fees. It’s about timing and location too.

How to Save Time and Avoid Delays

Getting a license can be confusing. Small mistakes cost big time.

If you want to avoid delays—or worse, denials—consider hiring a consultant. They help with:

  • Choosing the right license type
  • Filing forms correctly
  • Dealing with city zoning boards
  • Handling public notice requirements
  • Negotiating license purchases

In California, this isn’t just a form-and-go process. It’s layered. It’s political. It’s competitive.

A Smart First Move

Before anything else, start with research. Call the California ABC office. Find out what license types are available in your area. Ask about quotas. And get a ballpark on prices.

Once you know the landscape, you can decide if it makes sense to buy now or wait.

If you’re serious about owning a liquor store in California, the license is your golden ticket. And knowing the price of a liquor license for retail stores helps you get there faster.

Open smart. Spend wisely. And pour responsibly.