In its 2025 rankings of the "Best Small Cities to Start a Business," WalletHub placed Statesboro in the top 25 among more than1,300 small cities evaluated nationwide. 

At No. 24, Statesboro is one of three Georgia cities to make the top 25 list, along with LaGrange and Carrollton. WalletHub produces a wide range of research reports each year comparing cities and states in financially-related categories.

For the Best Small Cities report, WalletHub's study assessed cities based on 18 key metrics, including business environment, access to resources and business costs. 

In a release announcing the ranking, city leaders said: "Statesboro's strong performance in these areas underscores its appeal as a hub for innovation and economic growth."

Mayor Jonathan McCollar expressed his enthusiasm about the recognition, stating, "Statesboro's inclusion in this ranking is a testament to our community's dedication to economic vitality and fostering a vibrant community that's welcoming to all. We are committed to continuing our efforts to make Statesboro a premier destination to start a business, plant roots, and visit."

While WalletHub's published article did not provide a detailed breakdown of Statesboro's score, Mayor McCollar identified several key factors that he believes contributed to the city's business-friendly environment:

• Educated workforce: "We have an established pipeline of educated and skilled professionals," McCollar explained. "From Georgia Southern University to Ogeechee Technical College and East Georgia State College, our community produces a steady stream of workforce-ready individuals."

• Industry variety: Statesboro's role as a regional hub for diverse industries offers significant opportunities for both employers and employees. This diversity was one of the metrics evaluated in WalletHub's study.

• Community collaboration: "I would be remiss if I didn't recognize the Development Authority of Bulloch County for their excellent work in attracting and retaining businesses. They provide resources and support to facilitate growth," McCollar noted.

McCollar also emphasized the importance of Statesboro's strong sense of community: "We're a family, and we work together to ensure everyone has a seat at the table and that their voice is heard. While this isn't a tangible metric, it's a sentiment deeply felt by our local business owners."

The release credited the Statesboro-Bulloch County Chamber of Commerce and the City of Statesboro's Business Commission with playing "pivotal roles in promoting business-friendly policies and offering networking opportunities. Their efforts continue to strengthen Statesboro's reputation as a prime location for entrepreneurial success."