Florida Named America’s Best State for Business Buyers in 2026, New Study Finds

Florida has been named the best state in the nation to buy a business in 2026, according to a new report from Clarify Capital. The study evaluated all 50 states on economic strength, lending access, business survival rates, and long-term growth potential. 

Florida came out with an overall score of 82.7 out of 100, placing it ahead of South Carolina, Utah, Texas, and North Carolina in the national rankings. Researchers analyzed six major factors that influence business acquisition success, including GDP growth, population growth, SBA lending access, tax competitiveness, business survival rates, and the share of owners nearing retirement. 

Florida Leads Nation in Multiple Categories 

One of the largest drivers behind Florida’s No. 1 ranking was its economic performance. 

According to the report, Florida tied for the highest GDP growth rate in the country at 3.1% in 2025, signaling strong economic momentum and expanding business activity statewide. 

Researchers noted that buying a business in a growing economy gives owners a better chance to expand revenue, build market share, and benefit from rising consumer demand after acquisition. Florida also ranked No 2 nationally for population growth with an 8.7% increase between 2020 and 2025, with Idaho at 9.8% growth.

That population surge translates into a growing customer base and labor pool, which are two large advantages for business buyers. 

The study also highlighted Florida’s tax environment as a major competitive advantage. 

Florida ranked No. 5 overall for tax competitiveness with a Tax Foundation competitiveness score of 6.84. Researchers pointed to the state’s lack of personal income tax as one reason Florida continues attracting entrepreneurs, investors, and relocating businesses. 

“Lower taxes mean more of your post-acquisition profit stays in your pocket,” the report said. 

Florida outperformed other high-growth states, including Texas, Arizona, and North Caroline, all of which also landed in the top 10. 

Sun Belt States Lead Rankings

Clarify Capital found that states from the Sun Belt and Mountain West dominated the rankings due to strong economic expansion, migration trends, and business-friendly policies. 

The top 10 states to buy a business in 2026 are: 

1. Florida – 82.7
2. South Carolina – 81.0 
3. Utah – 80.4
4. Texas – 79.3
5. North Carolina – 79.2
6. Idaho – 75.1
7. Arizona – 74.8
8. New Hampshire – 74.7
9. Montana – 73.9
10. South Dakota – 73.1

Meanwhile, West Virginia ranked last overall with a score of 54.0, weighed down by a shrinking population, weak GDP growth of just 0.5%, and one of the country’s lowest SBA lending access rates at $626 per small business. 

With the nation’s highest GDP growth rate, high population growth, and one of the most competitive tax climates in the U.S., the statistics seem to point to the fact that Florida is attracting entrepreneurs, investors, and consumers at a newfound pace.

Ava McDonnell

Ava McDonnell is the Digital Content Creator/Editorial Manager for Central Florida Lifestyle Magazine while also earning her bachelor's degree in English at the University of Central Florida. Her work has been featured in UCF's The Charge and Her Campus UCF. She also has experience in editing using AP Style and SEO guidelines. Located in Clermont, Ava has always had a passion for learning about people's lives and sharing accurate stories with the world. She is dedicated to getting the job done right while making content interesting for readers. Aside from writing, you can find her indulging in the great outdoors with the people she loves. Whether it is hiking, taking photographs, or trying new activities, she is up for almost anything.

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