Small Business Ratios

1. Business Services
2. Eating Places

Sources for Industry Operating Ratios

Listed below are some of the best online sources for ratios. If you have come across a valuable online research source, click here to add your link.

Online

U.S. Census Bureau - 1997 Economic Census of Business Expenses. The Economic Census profiles the US economy every 5 years, from the national to the local level. The 1997 Census is a little outdated, but a good place to start. More recent stats are also available at this site. 

Score Chapter 114 - Typical operating statements of selected businesses from accounting firms to second hand stores. Fast and easy. More than 40 sample industries.

Bizminer - Provides industry financial profiles for over 19,000 firms based on industry SIC codes. Average cost around $60-$70.

Ratio Calculator - Bankrate.com provides a ratio calculator for current ratio, quick ratio, debt to assets ratio, and many more.

RMA Annual Statement Studies - Robert Morris' Annual Statement Studies is derived directly from more than 150,000 statements of commercial bank borrowers and prospects. Financial statements come direct to RMA from their member institutions, who get their data straight from customers. RMA is also available in many libraries.

Library

The following texts are usually found in the library Reference Area:

Sample Ratios

Instructions: The following data can be used to help you determine whether your business proposal is viable and profitable. You can use the ratios to pinpoint areas where costs and expenses deviate from the industry average. The following costs are based on IRS surveys. Remember than the average percentages shown below should only be considered as guidelines. Geographical location can affect these percentages, as well as many other factors unique to your business.