Area Development magazine named Georgia No. 1 for business – for ten straight years (2014-23). And for each of those years, the magazine also ranked Georgia No. 1 for Cooperative & Responsive State Government.

Area Development’s rankings reflect the views of industry experts across a dozen characteristics of business-friendly states. One of those is Cooperative and Responsive State Government. Area Development noted Georgia’s “longstanding reputation” in this category, citing “reasonable statutes, sound economic development policy and strong business development support.” 

Site Selection magazine ranked Georgia “No. 1 for Business” eight consecutive years (2013-20). That’s based on an analysis of announced projects, the state’s tax climate and a thorough survey of site selection professionals.

What matters most about rankings is whether a state holds a high position in several categories over many years. Georgia’s done just that.

Business in Georgia begins with fiscal responsibility. Here’s what that looks like:

Low taxes: In January 2019, Georgia lowered the corporate tax rate to 5.75%. Before then, it was 6% for half a century. Georgia also has single factor apportionment, with in-state sales being the only factor determining your state income tax liability.

High state credit ratings: Georgia is one of nine states with the highest credit marks. For 21 consecutive years, Georgia has maintained the highest bond ratings from each of the Big Three – Moody’s, Fitch and Standard & Poor’s.

Fiscal discipline: In Georgia, a balanced state budget is required by law. Georgia also maintains one of the lowest debt-per-capita levels in the nation.

See the tax creditsand tax exemptions that benefit your company.

440 of the Fortune 500 companies call Georgia home, and 19 have located their headquarters here. Why they’re here – and why they stay – stems from both favorable business conditions and the many ways in which Georgia works to help companies grow.

“Georgia truly understands the requirements of doing business better than most other states. From the start, we appreciated and recognized the business-friendly community.” - James Williams, senior VP with Mitsubishi Hitachi Power Systems

This caliber of Georgia’s support for business applies to mid-sized companies and small enterprises. See how the Georgia Department of Economic Development does this

Georgia's workforce of 5.3 million people offers a range of skills and diversity. Visit our workforce page to learn more.

Your business growth is good for Georgia’s growth. That’s why the team of experts in the Georgia Department of Economic Development will help you research and identify the best place to do business; share invaluable data; and connect you with the resources you need to seize opportunities and address challenges.

SEE HOW we work to grow your business in Georgia