A new analysis from NerdWallet revealed the best places to start a new business in Indiana. The big surprise: Of the top 10, none are in Hamilton County, the region immediately north of Indianapolis currently experiencing gangbusters growth. It’s a testament to just how competitive—and welcoming— the state’s economic environment is becoming for small business.
“Over the past 10 years, I’ve seen a marked increase in entrepreneurship as a professional pursuit among students,” says Robert Schuttler, assistant professor of business and economics at Marian University in Indianapolis. “Indiana is a good place for business creativity and development.”
The analysis find three key takeaways: The top 10 cities have an average of 10.47 businesses per 100 people, higher than the statewide average of 8.48; those cities have a median cost of housing of $727 a month; and their average population is 10,967.
Here, a look at the top 10, which were found by analyzing 99 locations in Indiana with populations of at least 5,000 and 500 businesses.
1. Bluffton
2. Monticello
3. Batesville
4. Auburn
5. Warsaw
6. Decatur
7. Clarksville
8. Rensselaer
9. Jasper
10. Angola
For a full ranking and rationale, click here.
