Atlanta named top city to start a business in 2024

The City of Atlanta has been named as the top city to start a business in 2024 by Home Bay and recognized in Black Enterprise Magazine. 

Atlanta was highlighted for its low operating costs, large talent pool and a strong community of Black entrepreneurs. These latest acknowledgements come after the Atlanta metro area was named the best place to start your own business in 2023 by LinkedIn.

“Once again, the city of Atlanta is being recognized for our efforts to create an inclusive community that supports strong business growth and development. We are a city of entrepreneurs, innovators, incubators and thinkers who are helping us create a city of opportunity for all,” Mayor Andre Dickens said in a press release. “Businesses are started here because they know the power of our talent pool, the strength of our economy and the possibility of growth. We continue to be leaders in making this city the best place in the country to raise a family, and now, start a business.”

In a study conducted by Home Bay, metrics including new business applications, venture capital investment, and job growth were analyzed. Home Bay ranked Atlanta first, showing significant improvements in its business environment over the past few years. Atlanta moved up from the No.5 ranking, behind No. 1 Las Vegas, since the last time the study was done in 2022.

Home Bay cites that over the past five years, Atlanta has the second-highest number of new business applications with 28.5 per 1,000 residents — almost double the number in the average U.S. city (14.5). Additionally, jobs in Atlanta have grown 2.5% over the past year, versus 1.7% nationwide, indicating thriving conditions. The city also offers numerous resources and opportunities for networking and support, particularly for Black-owned businesses.

This story comes to GPB through a reporting partnership with Rough Draft Atlanta.