UPDATE: Check out our new 2023 Best Cities to Live in the U.S. list.
#2. Austin
Through the years, Austin has been on the top of many lists for the best places to start a business; and it’s easy to see why. Like Boulder, it’s home to a large university (the University of Texas, and its McCombs School of Business), which breeds that previously mentioned culture of innovation. Then there are the large corporations that employ thousands (3M, Apple, Google, etc.), all of whom may require the benefit of a small business or two, and you’ve got some of the most recognizable startups out there: LegalZoom, Indeed.com, and more.
Business Growth (2011-2015): 14%
Employment Growth (2011-2015): 16%