Best US Cities to Start a Business in 2024

According to data from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Wyoming surpassed all the other states in business applications per capita, with applications increasing 38.8% from 2022 to 2023. 

At the same time, Austin has been a leading place where entrepreneurs settle for its favorable environment for startups.

Entrepreneurial momentum is no longer confined to Silicon Valley, as more and more U.S. cities are gradually becoming business and startup hotspots. 

With each city offering its unique contribution to the business equation, entrepreneurs sometimes need help deciding which city to establish their business in. 

In this article, we will explore 12 U.S. cities that offer favorable business environments.

U.S. Cities That Attract Startups and Capital

When discussing which U.S. cities are most appropriate for setting up business, we must consider factors such as ease of doing business, state taxes, local laws, etc.

Considering these things, here are the best cities in the U.S. to start a business. 

🇺🇸 Austin, Texas

Being ranked as the fastest-growing metro area and home to venture capitalists and startups, Austin boasts thriving industries and a vibrant community. With a young population, the Austin metro area is growing four times faster than San Jose. 

Austin is also known for its educated workforce, which is a direct result of its world-class universities. It is also one of the few states that does not have a personal income tax. 

Austin is also known for its favorable tax policies that nurture innovation and growth. The vibrant tech industry and community are a testament to Austin’s business-centric policies, making it one of the most sought-after places for starting a business.

Here is a guide on how to start a business in Texas. 

🇺🇸 Denver, Colorado

A strong network of accelerators, incubators, and co-working spaces supports Denver’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Colorado’s initiative to reduce the cost of starting a business from $50 to $1 between mid-2022 and mid-2023 contributed to a significant increase in new business applications. 

Denver’s robust economy, diverse industries, and high quality of life make it an attractive location for startups. The city also benefits from a highly educated workforce, thanks to several top-tier universities.

🇺🇸 Miami, Florida

Miami offers excellent opportunities for new businesses, ranking highest overall for net business openings and entry rates. 

However, it also has the fifth-worst exit rate, indicating challenges in sustaining businesses over the long term. Despite this, Miami’s dynamic environment and business-friendly policies make it a top startup contender.

Read more about how to start a business in Florida. 

🇺🇸 Los Angeles, California

Los Angeles ranks highly for entrepreneurs, particularly in terms of the percentage of total employment in startups (15.63%). 

However, it has one of the lowest net business openings, suggesting a competitive and challenging market. Nevertheless, the city’s diverse economy and extensive resources for startups make it an attractive option.

Also read: How to Start a Business in California

🇺🇸 Colorado Springs, Colorado

Startups in Colorado Springs contribute significantly to employment, with 5.66% of total employment in the city being attributed to businesses under one year old.

This highlights the city’s supportive environment for new ventures, making it a notable location for entrepreneurs looking to establish themselves in a growing market.

🇺🇸 Raleigh, North Carolina

Raleigh’s reputation as a tech hub continues to grow, thanks to the presence of Research Triangle Park and top-tier universities.

The city offers a supportive startup environment, with access to funding, mentorship, and a skilled workforce. 

Raleigh’s affordable cost of living and high quality of life make it desirable for entrepreneurs. The city’s focus on innovation and collaboration fosters a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem.

🇺🇸 Houston, Texas

Houston’s diverse economy, which includes energy, healthcare, and aerospace industries, provides a solid foundation for new businesses. The city’s business-friendly policies, including no personal income tax, attract entrepreneurs nationwide. 

Houston’s large and growing population offers a substantial market for startups.

The city’s strategic location as a transportation hub enhances its appeal, making it easier for businesses to reach national and international markets.

🇺🇸 Chicago, Illinois

Chicago’s vibrant economy, supported by diverse industries, is an attractive location for startups. The city offers numerous resources for entrepreneurs, including incubators, accelerators, and funding opportunities. 

Chicago’s central location and excellent transportation infrastructure make it a business strategic hub.

The city’s rich cultural scene and high quality of life add to its appeal for entrepreneurs looking to balance work and life.

🇺🇸 Salt Lake City, Utah

Salt Lake City benefits from Utah’s strong business climate and growth initiatives. The city offers a supportive startup environment, with access to funding, mentorship, and a talented workforce. 

Salt Lake City’s affordable cost of living and high quality of life make it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs.

The city’s focus on innovation and sustainability further enhances its appeal to forward-thinking businesses.

How to Start an LLC in Utah in 8 Steps

🇺🇸 Provo, Utah

Provo is quickly becoming a notable startup hub thanks to its robust tech industry and business-friendly environment. The city’s proximity to Brigham Young University provides a steady stream of talent and innovative ideas. 

Provo’s supportive community and network of accelerators and incubators make it ideal for new businesses to thrive.

The city’s low cost of living and high quality of life further enhance its appeal to entrepreneurs.

🇺🇸 Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas is transforming into a dynamic startup city, leveraging its reputation as a major entertainment and tourism hub. The city offers numerous incentives for new businesses, including low taxes and a favorable regulatory environment. 

How to Start an LLC in Nevada in 8 Steps

Las Vegas’s strategic location and growing population provide ample opportunities for startups. The city’s focus on diversifying its economy beyond tourism and entertainment creates new avenues for entrepreneurial ventures.

🇺🇸 New York City

While New York City sees many new business establishments, it also has the highest failure rate, ranking 42nd out of 46 cities surveyed. The city’s challenging business environment and high costs may deter some entrepreneurs despite its vast market and resources.

However, for those who can navigate its competitive landscape, New York offers unmatched opportunities and access to a diverse and dynamic market.

🇺🇸 San Francisco, California

Containing the nation’s most prominent tech hub, San Francisco boasts a thriving community of tech evangelists, investors, and entrepreneurs who are at the forefront of their industry.

Cutting-edge research and innovation in tech have all contributed to making San Francisco a preferred choice for setting up a business. 

San Francisco also serves as the region’s cultural hub. If your business involves cutting-edge research and innovation, then San Francisco is where you will find like-minded and skilled people who can support your entrepreneurial journey. 

How Can doola Help You in Your Entrepreneurial Journey?

At doola, we serve clients all across the globe in setting up U.S. businesses, allowing them to choose the city they desire. We enable our clients worldwide to have access to the American dream because talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not. 

In our endeavor to let everyone in the world have a U.S. business, we ensure that our clients enjoy unparalleled services that care for their every business need, such as bookkeeping and compliance management.

Sign up on our platform today and set up your U.S. business in a city of your choice. 

FAQs 

What factors should I consider when choosing a city to start my business in the U.S.?

When choosing a city to start your business, consider factors such as ease of doing business, state taxes, local laws, access to funding and resources, quality of life, and the availability of a skilled workforce.

Why is Austin, Texas, a favorable city for startups?

Austin is known for its thriving industries, vibrant community, educated workforce, and favorable tax policies. The city also benefits from the absence of a personal income tax and has a strong network of venture capitalists and startups.

What makes Denver, Colorado, attractive for entrepreneurs?

Denver offers a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem supported by accelerators, incubators, and co-working spaces. Colorado’s initiative to reduce the cost of starting a business and the city’s diverse industries and high quality of life make it an attractive location for startups.

How does Miami, Florida, rank in terms of business opportunities?

Miami ranks highest for net business openings and entry rates, providing excellent opportunities for new businesses. However, it also faces challenges with a high exit rate, indicating difficulties in sustaining businesses long-term.

What are the benefits of starting a business in Los Angeles, California?

Los Angeles has a diverse economy and extensive resources for startups, with a high percentage of total employment in startups. Despite being a competitive market, the city’s resources and diverse economy make it an attractive option for entrepreneurs.