Best States to Start a Business in: 2023 List
The year 2023 is shaping up to be a great time for entrepreneurs looking to start a business in the United States. With a strong economy and favorable business environment, there are many states that offer great opportunities for new businesses to thrive. However, with so many options available, it can be difficult to know where to start.
Fortunately, there are several studies and rankings that can help aspiring entrepreneurs identify the best states to start a business in 2023. These rankings take into account a variety of factors, including the cost of living, access to funding, and the overall business climate in each state. By using these rankings as a guide, entrepreneurs can make informed decisions about where to launch their new ventures.
Of course, there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to starting a business. The best state for one entrepreneur may not be the best state for another. However, by taking the time to research and evaluate the options, entrepreneurs can increase their chances of success and find the best state to start a business in 2023.
Economic Climate
When it comes to starting a business, the economic climate of a state is a crucial factor to consider. This section will examine the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), unemployment rates, and tax policies of the top states for starting a business in 2023.
Gross Domestic Product
GDP is a measure of a state’s economic output and can indicate the health of its economy. According to the Bureau of Economic Analysis, the top five states with the highest GDP growth in Q3 2022 were Texas, California, Florida, Georgia, and North Carolina. These states have a diverse range of industries, including technology, healthcare, and manufacturing, that contribute to their economic growth.
Unemployment Rates
Low unemployment rates can be a positive sign for businesses as it can indicate a strong labor market. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the states with the lowest unemployment rates in February 2023 were South Dakota, Utah, and Nebraska. These states have a variety of industries that contribute to their low unemployment rates, including agriculture, healthcare, and finance.
Tax Policies
Tax policies can greatly impact a business’s bottom line. The Tax Foundation ranks states based on their business tax climate, taking into account factors such as corporate taxes, individual income taxes, and property taxes. The top five states with the most favorable business tax climates in 2023 were Wyoming, South Dakota, Alaska, Florida, and Montana. These states have low or no corporate income taxes, making them attractive for businesses looking to keep their tax burden low.
Infrastructure
When starting a business, it is important to consider the infrastructure of the state you are setting up shop in. Infrastructure refers to the basic physical and organizational structures and facilities needed for the operation of a society or enterprise. In this section, we will examine the infrastructure of the best states to start a business in 2023.
Transportation
Good transportation infrastructure is essential for businesses to thrive. It allows for the easy movement of goods and services, as well as employees. According to WalletHub, the top 5 states for transportation infrastructure in 2023 are:
| Rank | State |
|---|---|
| 1 | Texas |
| 2 | California |
| 3 | Georgia |
| 4 | Ohio |
| 5 | Illinois |
These states have well-maintained highways, airports, and other transportation infrastructure that make it easy for businesses to transport their goods and employees.
Technology
In today’s digital age, having access to reliable technology infrastructure is crucial for businesses. The top 5 states for technology infrastructure in 2023, according to Forbes, are:
- California
- Washington
- Virginia
- Utah
- Colorado
These states have a strong technology sector, with access to high-speed internet, tech incubators, and other resources that can help businesses grow and succeed.
Energy
Access to affordable, reliable energy is important for businesses to keep their costs down and operate efficiently. The top 5 states for energy infrastructure in 2023, according to Forbes, are:
- Texas
- North Dakota
- Wyoming
- Alaska
- Oklahoma
These states have abundant natural resources, such as oil and gas, which help keep energy costs low. They also have a strong renewable energy sector, with wind and solar power becoming increasingly popular.
Business-Friendly Policies
When starting a business, it is important to consider the policies in place in the state you plan to operate in. Some states have more business-friendly policies than others, which can make a big difference in the success of your venture. This section will examine the regulatory environment, access to capital, and incentives offered by the top states for starting a business in 2023.
Regulatory Environment
The regulatory environment can make or break a business. States with complex regulations and high compliance costs can be a major barrier to entry for entrepreneurs. On the other hand, states with streamlined regulations and low compliance costs can make it easier for businesses to get started and grow.
According to a report by Forbes, Indiana is the best state to start a business in 2023 due in part to its regulatory environment. The state has a simple tax code and a relatively low regulatory burden, making it easier for businesses to operate. Other states with business-friendly regulatory environments include Wyoming, South Dakota, and Nevada.
Access to Capital
Access to capital is another important factor to consider when starting a business. States with strong venture capital ecosystems and a variety of funding options can make it easier for businesses to secure the funding they need to get started and grow.
According to WalletHub, the top states for accessible financing in 2023 are South Dakota, North Dakota, and Utah. These states have a variety of funding options available, including venture capital, angel investors, and small business loans. Other states with strong access to capital include Idaho and Hawaii.
Incentives
Many states offer incentives to businesses to encourage them to locate or expand in their state. These incentives can include tax breaks, grants, and other financial incentives. States with strong incentives can be particularly attractive to businesses looking to reduce their costs and increase their profitability.
According to a report by Entrepreneur, Delaware is considered one of the most business-friendly states due in part to its incentives. The state offers a variety of tax breaks and other incentives to businesses, including a low corporate income tax rate and a research and development tax credit. Other states with strong incentives include Utah, Idaho, and Florida.
Overall, when starting a business in 2023, it is important to consider the regulatory environment, access to capital, and incentives offered by the state you plan to operate in. By choosing a state with business-friendly policies, you can increase your chances of success and reduce your costs.Sources:
- Forbes: Ranked: The Best States To Start a Business In 2023
- WalletHub: 2023’s Best & Worst States to Start a Business
- Entrepreneur: These Are the Best and Worst States to Start a Business in 2023
Quality of Life
When considering where to start a business, it’s important to take into account the quality of life in a state. Quality of life can be defined as a measure of comfort, health, and happiness by a person or a group of people. It is determined by both material factors, such as income and housing, and broader considerations like health, education, and freedom.
Cost of Living
The cost of living can greatly impact the quality of life in a state. States with a lower cost of living can make it easier for entrepreneurs to start and grow their businesses, as they can save money on expenses like rent, utilities, and transportation. According to Forbes, the five states with the lowest cost of living in 2023 are Mississippi, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Missouri, and Kansas.
Education
Access to education is another important factor to consider when evaluating the quality of life in a state. States with strong education systems can provide businesses with a skilled workforce and a pool of talented graduates to hire. According to U.S. News & World Report, the top five states for education in 2023 are Massachusetts, New Jersey, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Connecticut.
Healthcare
Access to quality healthcare is essential for both individuals and businesses. States with strong healthcare systems can provide employees with the care they need to stay healthy and productive. According to U.S. News & World Report, the top five states for healthcare in 2023 are Hawaii, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Vermont.
When considering the quality of life in a state, it’s important to take into account a variety of factors, including the cost of living, education, and healthcare. Entrepreneurs should carefully evaluate each state to determine which one offers the best quality of life for themselves and their employees.
