Texas has secured the fourth position in CNBC's 2026 America's Top States for Business report, which was made public on July 9. This marks a decline from its previous rank of second place a year earlier.
Ohio achieved the top ranking for the first time, followed by North Carolina in second place, Virginia in third, and Minnesota rounding out the top five. Texas continues to showcase a strong business environment, being rated first nationally for Workforce and second for both Economy and Access to Capital. The state's robust logistics infrastructure, including major ports and highways, enhances its reputation as a key trade and shipping center. A favorable tax framework and consistent corporate investments have also contributed to Texas's high ranking over the years.
However, CNBC highlighted challenges related to livability, placing Texas at 49th for Quality of Life due to high crime rates, inadequate healthcare, and a lack of inclusivity. These factors negatively impact the state's overall competitiveness score, which evaluates all 50 states across ten categories.
Despite the drop from second to fourth, Texas has shown significant improvement over recent years, having been ranked sixth in 2023 before climbing to second in 2025. The Dallas Regional Chamber noted that North Texas is experiencing a surge in corporate relocations, with 119 moves or expansions recorded in 2025, benefiting communities like Howe.
The ranking's strengths, a top-rated workforce and business investment, play out across North Texas communities including Howe.
