NerdWallet ranked the 10-best places to open up shop in Georgia, pointing out that cities along major transportation routes soar to the top of the list.
NerdWallet, a consumer information and financial website, compiled a top-10 list of the best places to start a business in Georgia.
They analyzed 126 places in Georgia with populations of at least 5,000. Places were scored based on business climate, economic health and income levels, using census bureau data. NerdWallet found that the best places for business were largely along major transportation routes and that the most profitable businesses were located outside the state’s major cities.
Here is NerdWallet’s ranking of the best places to do business in Georgia:
1. Alpharetta
2. Doraville
3. Vinings
4. Garden City
5. Dalton
6. Cumming
7. Norcross
8. Jesup
9. Carrollton
10. Waycross
The Peach State has been consistently ranked as one of the best places to do business in the country because of its business-friendly policies.
NFIB/Georgia state director Kyle Jackson says that the state’s ability to be fiscally responsible during tough times has put Georgia in a good spot for small business.
“I think we are one of only four or five state with a Aaa bond rating,” says Jackson. “Which means that, unlike other states, our state has done a very good job with keeping our fiscal house in order.”
NerdWallet found that Georgia’s tax system and a positive regulatory environment also contribute to making the state a good place for business.
“People aren’t worried about massive tax increases like we’re seeing in some of the northeastern states that are facing budgetary shortfalls,” Jackson says. “From a regulatory standpoint, Georgia does a pretty good job of trying to stay out of the way of job creators and innovation, unlike the federal government, which seems to be throwing up roadblocks.”
Compared to many of its neighboring states in the southeast, Georgia is in good shape.
“Georgia has been a leader in a lot of ways, including many policy issues,” says Jackson. “We just have a better regulatory climate, which makes it easier for people to come and do business here.”
