Texas has been ranked fourth in CNBC's 2026 America's Top States for Business study, which was released on July 9. This marks a decline from its previous position at second place last year.
Ohio has taken the top spot for the first time, followed by North Carolina in second place, Virginia in third, and Minnesota finishing the top five behind Texas. The state's strong business environment is highlighted by its number one ranking for Workforce and second place for both Economy and Access to Capital. Texas also benefits from its extensive logistics network, including major ports and highways, which supports its role as a significant trade hub.
However, CNBC noted that Texas struggles with livability issues, 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 study, which evaluates all 50 states across ten categories.
Despite the drop, Texas has consistently ranked near the top since the study's inception in 2007. The ranking comes at a time when North Texas is experiencing 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. This trend is reflected in communities like Princeton, where a strong workforce and business investment are evident.
The ranking's strengths, a top-rated workforce and business investment, play out across North Texas communities including Princeton.
