Texas has been recognized as one of the premier states for business, achieving the fourth position in CNBC's 2026 analysis of America's Top States for Business, published on July 9. This marks a decline from its previous second-place ranking.
Ohio secured the top spot for the first time, followed by North Carolina in second place, Virginia in third, and Minnesota rounding out the top five behind Texas. The state's business environment remains strong, with Texas earning the number one ranking for Workforce and second place for both Economy and Access to Capital. The state's extensive logistics capabilities, including major ports and airports, contribute significantly to its status as a key trade and shipping hub. Additionally, a favorable tax structure and ongoing corporate investments have helped maintain Texas's competitive edge.
However, CNBC noted challenges regarding livability, with Texas ranking 49th out of 50 for Quality of Life due to high crime rates, inadequate healthcare, and issues with inclusiveness. These factors negatively impact the state's overall score in the study, which evaluates all states across ten competitive 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's inception in 2007. For North Texas, this 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. metropolitan area. The growth in corporate campuses and data centers continues to generate jobs and bolster the local economy, benefiting communities like Aubrey.
The ranking's strengths, a top-rated workforce and business investment, play out across North Texas communities including Aubrey.
