News Summary
Texas has dropped to second place in the latest ‘America’s Top State for Business’ rankings, with North Carolina taking the top spot for 2025. While Texas excels with its massive workforce, it faced challenges in quality of life and infrastructure. Job growth remains strong, particularly in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Despite the setback, Texas’s vibrant economy and potential for improvement keep hopes alive for reclaiming its former glory.
Texas Loses Ground in Business Rankings: A Friendly Look at the Latest Developments
Hey there, folks! Let’s talk about some big news that has Texas buzzing like a summer bee. In the latest rankings for America’s Top State for Business, our Lone Star State has fallen to a respectable second place. Surprising, right? Well, it seems that North Carolina has snatched the crown for 2025. This marks North Carolina’s first place in three out of the last four years, and boy, are they celebrating!
A Peek at the Rankings
Now, it’s important to note that Texas has been on a hot streak since the rankings began in 2007, consistently landing in the top six. The last time Texas held the top position was back in 2018. So, what’s changed?
According to the latest data, Texas received its highest mark for workforce, rocketing to first place with a whopping 15.8 million workers ready to roll. That’s a significant factor in Texas’s strong economy, often dubbed a “miracle” by many. However, it couldn’t quite keep up with North Carolina, which excelled with impressive rankings of third in economy, fourth in workforce, and fourth in business friendliness.
The Good and the Bad
Let’s not sugarcoat it, though. While Texas has much to boast about, there are a few bumps in the road. It ranked poorly in quality of life, landing at a dismal 49th, and came in at 26th for infrastructure. This might be a wake-up call for officials looking to improve conditions for both residents and businesses. Meanwhile, North Carolina has been busy making headlines with major advancements like a new factory in Greensboro expected to employ 14,500 people and a $10 billion data center expansion by Amazon.
Job Growth in the Lone Star State
Let’s talk jobs! Texas is still on fire when it comes to job growth, boasting a 4.1% unemployment rate, just a tick above the national average of 4%. Looking at the bustling Dallas-Fort Worth area, it’s doing even better with a jobless rate of around 3.7%, showcasing its role as a pivotal player in Texas’ labor market — roughly 30% of the state’s workforce is found here.
The Dallas-Fort Worth Advantage
The Dallas-Fort Worth region is often dubbed the “headquarters of headquarters,” earning this title by attracting various companies looking to relocate from elsewhere in the country. Texas continues to shine with its strong global connectivity via DFW Airport and the deep-water ports in Houston. Trade corridors leading to Mexico add that extra layer of appeal, making it a hub for businesses eager to expand their reach.
Challenges Ahead
Looking to the Future
While Texas might have lost the top spot this time around, other publications still recognize its strengths. For instance, Texas nabbed the title in Site Selection magazine’s “Top State Business Climate” for 2024, reminding us that there’s still a lot to love about doing business in the Lone Star State.
In conclusion, Texas might be down for now, but it’s certainly not out! With its vibrant workforce and substantial economic landscape, there’s potential to bounce back and reclaim the top position in the future. So, keep your eyes peeled, Texas, and let’s get to work on turning those rankings around!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Dallas News: Texas Edged Out by North Carolina Again in CNBC’s Top States for Business
- Wikipedia: Texas
- Houston Chronicle: Trump, Texas Economy, Tariffs, Budget
- Google Search: Texas Economy
- U.S. Chamber of Commerce: Why Business is Thriving in North Texas
- Encyclopedia Britannica: State of Texas
- Business Facilities: Why Texas
- Google News: Texas Business Rankings
Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
HOUSTON STAFF WRITER The HOUSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHouston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Houston, Harris County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Art Car Parade, and Chevron Houston Marathon. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Houston Partnership and Houston Area Urban League, plus leading businesses in energy and healthcare that power the local economy such as ExxonMobil, Schlumberger, and Houston Methodist. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
