Texas has been recognized as the fourth-best state for business in the 2026 America's Top States for Business study published by CNBC on July 9. This marks a decline from its previous second-place ranking held last year.
Ohio achieved the top position for the first time, followed by North Carolina in second place, Virginia in third, and Minnesota rounding out the top five. Texas continues to demonstrate strong business fundamentals, being rated first in Workforce and second in both Economy and Access to Capital. The state's extensive logistics infrastructure, including major ports, international airports, and robust highway systems, supports its status as a leading trade and shipping center. Additionally, a favorable tax environment and consistent corporate investments have contributed to Texas's high rankings over the years.
However, CNBC noted that Texas faces challenges in livability, ranking 49th out of 50 for Quality of Life due to high crime rates, inadequate healthcare, and a lack of inclusiveness. These factors negatively impact the state's overall score in the competitiveness assessment, which evaluates all 50 states across ten categories.
Despite the drop from second to fourth place, Texas has historically performed well in these rankings, having been near the top since the study began in 2007. In North Texas, where The Colony is located, the ranking coincides with a surge in corporate relocations and expansions, with the Dallas Regional Chamber reporting 119 such moves in 2025, the highest of any U.S. metro area.
The ranking's strengths, a top-rated workforce and business investment, play out across North Texas communities including The Colony.
