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January 30, 2025 | Tom Ballard

Tennessee ranks sixth among states for starting a business

The author ranked the top 10 based on their business environment, cost of living, and growth opportunities.

In a recent ranking published in Inc. Magazine, Tennessee placed sixth among all states in terms of the top 10 most friendly states for starting a business.

“In the world of entrepreneurship, success isn’t just about what you create — it’s also about where you create it. The right location can provide the perfect ecosystem to fuel your vision, offering everything from tax incentives to a thriving talent pool. With the right foundation, your business can not only survive but thrive,” wrote Roy Dekel, Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of SetSchedule LLC.

The author ranked the top 10 based on their business environment, cost of living, and growth opportunities.

About Tennessee, Dekel wrote: “Tennessee combines low costs with high rewards. With its central location and growing urban centers like Nashville, the state is becoming a hotspot for entrepreneurs.” He noted three additional attributes:

  • No state income tax;
  • Growing entertainment and healthcare sectors; and
  • Access to major transportation hubs.

Topping the list was Texas followed by Florida, Utah, North Carolina, and Colorado. After the Volunteer State, the others in the top 10 were Arizona, Nevada, Georgia, and Wyoming.



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