News Summary
Atlanta has proudly secured the eighth position in WalletHub’s recent ranking of the best large cities for starting a business. This recognition highlights Atlanta’s strong entrepreneurial environment, surpassing major competitors such as Dallas and other cities. The ranking evaluates factors such as business survival rates and office affordability. Notably, Atlanta is home to significant corporations and a thriving local business scene, which contributes to its standing as a favorable destination for entrepreneurs.
Atlanta Ranks Eighth in WalletHub’s Best Large Cities for Startups
Atlanta has been recognized as the eighth-best large city in the United States for starting a business, according to a recent ranking by a personal finance website. This accolade places Atlanta ahead of Dallas, Texas, and 98 other cities, solidifying its status as a prime location for entrepreneurs.
Evaluation Criteria
The ranking by WalletHub evaluated cities based on several factors, including five-year business survival rates, labor costs, and office space affordability. These criteria are essential for determining the health of the business environment in each city.
Top Competitors
Leading the list is Orlando, Florida, which boasts a high rate of investor availability and an increasing working-age population, making it fertile ground for startups. Atlanta achieved an overall score of 59.16, ranking 14th in business environment, 16th in access to resources, and 48th in business costs.
Notable Corporations and Local Businesses
Atlanta is home to major corporations, including Delta Air Lines and Coca-Cola, which contribute to a vibrant business community. The city also features a variety of local businesses that enhance its entrepreneurial landscape, such as:
- Mary Mac’s Tea Room
- The Spotted Trotter – a charcuterie butcher shop
- The Collective at Krog Street Market – a craft and vintage gift shop
- King of Pops – known for its dessert offerings
Startup Support in Georgia
Three Georgia cities have been recognized for their supportive startup ecosystems. In a broader survey aimed at determining city support for startups, Atlanta ranks 6th overall, benefiting from initiatives such as the Advanced Technology Development Center (ATDC) and a burgeoning number of startups, mainly in marketing, software, and hardware technology.
Other cities in Georgia include:
- Savannah, which ranks 17th with a growing focus on logistics and creative tech.
- Athens, ranking 40th and noted for its supportive startup environment stemming from the University of Georgia and its affordable living costs.
Success Stories from Atlanta
Recently, entrepreneur Monica Williams won $1 million for her startup, RedDrop, which specializes in period care kits for girls. This achievement highlights the entrepreneurial spirit in the city, particularly during events aimed at supporting diverse founders.
Other entrepreneurs in Atlanta received funding through similar competitions, showcasing the potential for innovation and growth in the area:
- Tahir Murray, awarded $25,000 for his HBCU clothing brand.
- Cloe Guidry-Reed, who secured $75,000 for her vendor management platform.
Investment Trends
Atlanta’s startup ecosystem continues to thrive, evidenced by Flock Safety, a local tech firm that recently raised $275 million in investments, bringing its valuation to over $7.5 billion. This company specializes in security technology and is planning to expand its manufacturing and staffing within Atlanta.
With its supportive environment, access to resources, and a wealth of successful local businesses, Atlanta is solidifying its reputation as a prime destination for entrepreneurs and business startups.
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Additional Resources
- Valdosta Today: Three Georgia Cities Rank Among Best Cities in U.S. to Start a Business
- AJC: Pharrell-Backed $1 Million Prize Winner is an Atlanta Startup
- Atlanta Magazine: 2025 Atlanta 500 Business
- The Robot Report: RoboGeorgia Brings Industry, Academia, and Robotics Startups Together in Atlanta
- AJC: Flock Safety Raises $275 Million, Plans Major Expansion in Metro Atlanta
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton 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 vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
