San Antonio, Texas, January 27, 2026
Texas has been recognized as the third-best state for entrepreneurs in 2026, according to a WalletHub analysis. The study ranks Texas behind Florida and Utah, focusing on business environment, resource access, and business costs. The findings reflect Texas’s entrepreneurial spirit and the determination of local business owners, highlighting both opportunities and challenges in the state’s business landscape.
San Antonio, Texas – January 27, 2026
Texas Ranked Third-Best State for Entrepreneurs in 2026
Discover why Texas continues to shine as a top destination for business owners.
Texas has been ranked as the third-best state to start a business in 2026, according to a recent WalletHub analysis. The study evaluated all 50 states based on business environment, access to resources, and business costs, placing Florida and Utah ahead of Texas in the rankings. Entrepreneurs in San Antonio can take heart from these findings, which highlight the resilience and ingenuity that characterize the local business landscape.
The favorable ranking reflects an entrepreneurial spirit and the determination of business owners in Texas. As a state known for its commitment to free enterprise, Texas continues to foster an environment where small businesses can thrive, aided by supportive policies and infrastructure. While the analysis identifies some higher costs of doing business, these nuances present growth opportunities for savvy entrepreneurs willing to navigate the entrepreneurial waters.
Key Findings
- Business Environment: Texas secured the top position, indicating a favorable climate for new businesses.
- Access to Resources: The state ranked 11th, reflecting substantial availability of resources for entrepreneurs.
- Business Costs: Texas was 34th in this category, suggesting that while resources are ample, costs may be higher compared to other states.
Implications for Entrepreneurs
The high ranking in business environment underscores Texas’s supportive policies and infrastructure for startups. What does this mean for entrepreneurs? With a top-tier business environment, startups benefit from reduced red tape, an essential factor in encouraging entrepreneurial endeavors. However, the 34th place in business costs compels entrepreneurs to strategically assess their financial obligations as they launch their ventures. Labor costs, real estate prices, and regulatory fees may all impact the overall profitability of businesses.
Background Context
Texas has consistently been recognized for its business-friendly environment. In 2024, it was named the Best State for Business for the 20th consecutive year by Chief Executive magazine. This kind of sustained recognition speaks volumes about Texas’s dedication to fostering a robust economic climate for businesses of all sizes. The state has also excelled in attracting business relocation and expansion projects, earning the Governor’s Cup for 12 consecutive years. Such accolades highlight the ongoing efforts to maintain an environment conducive to business success.
Conclusion
While Texas ranks third in WalletHub’s 2026 analysis, its leading position in business environment and substantial access to resources make it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs. Prospective business owners should weigh these advantages against the higher business costs to make informed decisions about establishing their ventures in the state. Supporting local businesses and staying engaged in San Antonio’s economic future will help continue the positive trajectory for entrepreneurship in the region.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What factors contributed to Texas’s ranking as the third-best state to start a business?
The ranking was based on evaluations of business environment, access to resources, and business costs. Texas excelled in business environment and access to resources but ranked lower in business costs.
How does Texas’s business environment compare to other states?
Texas secured the top position in business environment, indicating a highly favorable climate for new businesses compared to other states.
What does the 34th place ranking in business costs mean for entrepreneurs?
The 34th place ranking suggests that while resources are ample, entrepreneurs may face higher expenses related to starting and operating a business in Texas compared to other states.
Has Texas been recognized for its business climate in previous years?
Yes, Texas has consistently been recognized for its business-friendly environment, including being named the Best State for Business for 20 consecutive years by Chief Executive magazine in 2024.
What should entrepreneurs consider when starting a business in Texas?
Entrepreneurs should consider the favorable business environment and access to resources in Texas, while also accounting for the higher business costs to make informed decisions about establishing their ventures in the state.
Key Features of Texas’s Business Climate
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Business Environment Ranking | 1st |
| Access to Resources Ranking | 11th |
| Business Costs Ranking | 34th |
| Overall Ranking | 3rd |
| Previous Recognition | Best State for Business for 20 consecutive years (2024) |
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Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
