Texas: The Best State for Business Growth Despite Economic Uncertainty

by Aaron Demerson

I get it. The economy seems uncertain and companies across the country are looking for a place where they can grow with confidence. In Texas, we like to say it ain’t braggin’ if it’s true—and the fact of the matter is, takes care of business. With a budget surplus, world-class infrastructure, a skilled workforce, and a can-do attitude that turns challenges into opportunities, Texas remains the safest place for business expansion and retention, both now and for generations to come.

One of the biggest reasons businesses continue to choose Texas is our unwavering commitment to fiscal responsibility. While other states like California are tightening belts and scrambling to balance budgets due to decades of bad decisions, Texas stands on solid ground, with a record-setting $24 billion surplus. This isn’t an accident—it’s the result of a common-sense approach to governance and a relentless focus on creating a predictable environment for businesses to thrive. When CEOs talk about why they choose Texas, the word we hear most often is confidence. In uncertain times, there’s simply no substitute for that kind of peace of mind.

Of course, growth isn’t possible without the right infrastructure—and Texas has invested and continues investing heavily to make sure it’s always. Whether it’s expansive land availability, scalable utilities, or a strong transportation network, businesses know they’re building on a foundation built to last.

But infrastructure alone isn’t enough. Businesses need talent—and Texas has been investing in our workforce for generations. The state’s partnerships with universities, technical schools, and private industry are building powerful talent pipelines to sustain growth. Texas isn’t just leading in job creation over the last 12 months; we’re leading in job quality. Our skilled and diverse workforce ensures businesses have the human capital to succeed, innovate, and expand. There’s a reason that Texas was just ranked the Best State for Business for the 21st year in a row by Chief Executive magazine. It’s a fundamental part of our promise: Texas is ready for tomorrow, today.

This readiness hasn’t gone unnoticed on the global stage. As tariffs are discussed and global trade realigns, Texas is becoming the manufacturing hub of choice for international businesses — particularly those looking to reduce dependency on Asia and re-shore operations closer to U.S. customers.

Companies from Europe, Mexico, Canada, Asia, and other locations are actively exploring Texas as a strategic landing spot to avoid rising costs tied to global uncertainty and shifting trade policy. Texas consistently ranks as the top US State for foreign direct investment. With 35 foreign trade zones, more than 1,900 foreign corporations — and counting — have made Texas their US home base. We offer stability, strategic advantage, and a welcoming environment for global partnerships.

For 13 consecutive years, Texas has earned Site Selection Magazine’s prestigious Governor’s Cup with 1,368 projects for 2024, which is 114 more than the previous year and twice the number of second-place Illinois, which logged 664 projects. It helps that more than 300 corporate headquarters have relocated to the Lone Star State since 2015. With the eighth-largest economy in the world — larger than Canada, South Korea, and Australia — Texas’ position as a global economic powerhouse is undeniable.

Still, what sets Texas apart is our attitude. Texans are known for turning lemons into lemonade, and that’s exactly what we’ve done—transforming economic challenges into economic opportunities. Whether it’s major tech expansions, aerospace innovations, or groundbreaking advancements in energy and manufacturing, Texas keeps showing up with solutions, not excuses. CEOs tell us repeatedly that the freedom and supportive business climate they find here isn’t something they’ve experienced anywhere else.

In Texas, a part of our secret sauce is the strategic alignment of our economic development, workforce, and education efforts. When support by elected officials, the blending of these ingredients creates a winning combination that makes small and large-scale projects a reality rather than just a dream.

The future of business is undoubtedly bright in Texas. Our message to companies across the nation and around the world is simple: Texas remains open, ready, and resilient. Our record-breaking surplus, unmatched infrastructure, exceptional talent base, and proactive approach to global business mean one thing—Texas is the safest, smartest investment you can make. Here, confidence isn’t just a feeling; it’s a reality we deliver on every single day.

In Texas, it ain’t braggin’ if it’s true—and we’ve got plenty of truth to tell.