Best Florida Cities for Small Businesses

Where you choose to launch or expand your business plays a major role in your future, especially in a diverse and economically vibrant state like Florida. With no personal income tax, a booming tourism industry, and a steady influx of new residents, Florida provides innovative ground for small business owners. Still, some cities offer a stronger foundation than others.

To identify the top locations for entrepreneurs, the B2B Reviews Research Team analyzed key data points such as population size, the percentage of employer firms, local sales tax rates, and average commercial rent costs.

As Florida continues to grow and attract business-minded individuals from across the country, our ranking spotlights the cities best positioned for small business success. Whether you’re starting a new venture or looking to relocate, this guide can help you find the right place to plant your roots.

Check out our methodology to learn how we ranked Florida’s cities.

Top 10 Cities in Florida for Small Businesses

1. Port St. Lucie

Port St. Lucie ranks number one overall for top cities in Florida for small businesses, driven by rapid population growth, manageable business costs, and a supportive economic environment. As the sixth-largest city in the state by population, it offers access to a sizable and expanding customer base, supported by the highest population growth rate of any major city in Florida. While it ranks 22nd for the share of the employer firms, Port St. Lucie’s steady business development reflects growing entrepreneurial interest in the area. The city also benefits from a favorable tax environment, with a county sales tax rate that ranks 10th lowest in the state. Commercial real estate costs are relatively affordable too, placing sixth overall, which helps new and expanding businesses control overhead. Altogether, Port St. Lucie’s strong growth and balanced business climate make it an appealing destination for small business leaders.

• City population: 246,695
• City population as a percentage of the state: 1.09%
• Percent increase of population from 2020-2023: 19.28%
• Percent of employer firms: 0.71%
• County sales tax rates: 13.00%
• Average commercial real estate rent per square foot: $47

2. Orlando

Orlando’s strong business presence, favorable tax environment, and central role in the state’s economy makes it Florida’s second-best city overall for small businesses. The city ranks fourth in the state for both overall population share and the percentage of employer firms–indicators of a strong market presence and a well-established entrepreneurial ecosystem. While Orlando’s recent population growth places it 17th statewide, its business infrastructure is already thriving. One of the city’s biggest advantage? It leads the entire state with the lowest county-level sales tax rate, offering a cost-saving edge that few others can match. Although commercial rent prices are among the highest in Florida, the city’s economic potential, customer reach, and pro-business tax policies make it an appealing launchpad for small business owners.

• City population: 327,390
• City population as a percentage of the state: 1.45%
• Percent increase of population from 2020-2023: 6.34%
• Percent of employer firms: 2.37%
• County sales tax rates: 12.50%
• Average commercial real estate rent per square foot: $220

3. Cape Coral

Cape Coral is quickly gaining ground as a prime destination for small business growth in Florida. Ranked third in the state for population growth, the city is attracting new residents at a rapid pace, creating a rising demand for local goods and services. It holds the eighth-largest share of Florida’s population and maintains a solid business base, ranking 15th in the percentage of employer firms. Business owners in Cape Coral also benefit from the lowest county sales tax rate in the state, helping reduce overhead costs and boost profit margins. While commercial rent ranks 51st in affordability, the city’s fast-growing population and favorable tax climate make it an increasingly attractive option for entrepreneurs looking to tap into a booming market.

• City population: 227,022
• City population as a percentage of the state: 1.00%
• Percent increase of population from 2020-2023: 16.16%
• Percent of employer firms: 0.91%
• County sales tax rates: 12.50%
• Average commercial real estate rent per square foot: $228

4. Palm Bay

Palm Bay offers a unique mix of affordability and growth potential for small business owners in Florida. While it ranks 16th in the state by population share, its stead influx of new residents–eighth overall in population growth–signals rising demand and expanding opportunities. What truly sets Palm Bay apart is its affordability: it claims the top spot for lowest commercial real estate rent in the state, making it a cost-effective place to set up shop. The city’s county sales tax rate ranks 10th, keeping operating expenses relatively low. Though it lags behind in business density, its combination of population momentum and low overhead costs may appeal to entrepreneurs seeking long-term growth with minimal upfront risk.

• City population: 136,084
• City population as a percentage of the state: 0.60%
• Percent increase of population from 2020-2023: 13.24%
• Percent of employer firms: 0.27%
• County sales tax rates: 13.00%
• Average commercial real estate rent per square foot: $37

5. Miami

Miami remains one of Florida’s most influential business hubs, offering unmatched access to customers and a dense entrepreneurial network. As the second-largest city by population and employer firm concentration, it’s a hotspot for established businesses and startups alike. Although its recent population growth ranks 18th statewide, Miami’s massive market size and cultural diversity continue to drive demand across nearly every industry. The city benefits from a competitive county sales tax rate, but commercial rent is among the highest in Florida, ranking 56th. Still, for business owners who can navigate the higher costs, Miami offers strong infrastructure, global connectivity, and a thriving economic environment that few other cities can match.

• City population: 470,677
• City population as a percentage of the state: 2.08%
• Percent increase of population from 2020-2023: 6.29%
• Percent of employer firms: 3.69%
• County sales tax rates: 13.00%
• Average commercial real estate rent per square foot: $500

6. Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach is emerging as a promising city for small businesses looking to capitalize on rapid growth and affordability. Though it ranks 35th in population size within Florida, the city’s population growth is impressive–coming in fourth statewide–which signals expanding opportunities for local entrepreneurs. Daytona Beach has a moderate business presence, but it stands out for its exceptionally low county sales tax rate, the best in the state. Commercial rents are also quite affordable, ranking 14th statewide, making it an attractive options for startups and small businesses seeking to minimize costs while tapping into a growing market.

• City population: 82,735
• City population as a percentage of the state: 0.37%
• Percent increase of population from 2020-2023: 14.44%
• Percent of employer firms: 0.48%
• County sales tax rates: 12.50%
• Average commercial real estate rent per square foot: $75

7. Fort Myers

Fort Myers strikes a strong balance between growth, affordability, and business opportunity—making it a compelling choice for small business owners in Florida. Ranked 28th in the state by population share, the city is steadily expanding, with a population growth rate that places it ninth statewide. Fort Myers also boasts a healthy business environment, ranking 21st in employer firm density, and benefits from the lowest county sales tax rate in Florida—a major advantage for controlling operating expenses. Commercial rents are mid-range, allowing for relatively manageable overhead. With its growing population and pro-business tax landscape, Fort Myers offers a solid foundation for launching or scaling a small business.

• City population: 98,378
• City population as a percentage of the state: 0.44%
• Percent increase of population from 2020-2023: 12.71%
• Percent of employer firms: 0.74%
• County sales tax rates: 12.50%
• Average commercial real estate rent per square foot: $128

8. Hialeah

Hialeah offers small business owners access to a large, established market and a strong entrepreneurial presence. As the seventh-largest city in Florida by population, it provides a sizable customer base, and its ranking as 10th in employer firm density points to an active and competitive business community. While recent population growth has been slower—ranking 38th statewide—Hialeah’s stability and existing infrastructure remain key strengths. The city also benefits from a moderate county sales tax rate and average commercial rent costs, helping to keep expenses in check. For entrepreneurs seeking a well-established market with steady demand, Hialeah delivers a reliable environment for long-term business operations.

• City population: 228,557
• City population as a percentage of the state: 1.01%
• Percent increase of population from 2020-2023: 2.76%
• Percent of employer firms: 1.11%
• County sales tax rates: 13.00%
• Average commercial real estate rent per square foot: $112

9. North Port

North Port is quickly becoming a hotspot for small businesses looking to ride the wave of rapid growth at a reasonable cost. Though it ranks 29th in Florida by population size, its population surge—second fastest in the state—signals a booming local market with plenty of room to expand your customer base. While employer firm density is modest, the city makes up for it with affordability: commercial real estate costs are low (14th), and the county sales tax rate is comfortably moderate (10th). For entrepreneurs eager to stake a claim in an emerging community without getting squeezed by high overhead, North Port offers both promise and practicality.

• City population: 89,452
• City population as a percentage of the state: 0.40%
• Percent increase of population from 2020-2023: 18.49%
• Percent of employer firms: 0.27%
• County sales tax rates: 13.00%
• Average commercial real estate rent per square foot: $75

10. West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach stands out as a well-balanced choice for small business owners seeking both stability and opportunity in Florida. As the 17th-largest city in the state, it offers access to a solid customer base, and its growth rate—ranking 15th—indicates steady, sustainable expansion. With 13th place in employer firm density, the business community is active and supportive. Operating costs are reasonable thanks to a moderate county sales tax rate, and while commercial rent ranks 48th, it remains manageable compared to larger coastal cities. Altogether, West Palm Beach provides a reliable environment for entrepreneurs, balancing growth potential with cost-conscious planning.

• City population: 126,017
• City population as a percentage of the state: 0.56%
• Percent increase of population from 2020-2023: 7.24%
• Percent of employer firms: 1.00%
• County sales tax rates: 13.00%
• Average commercial real estate rent per square foot: $200

Methodology

To find the best cities in Florida for small business success, B2B Reviews analyzed a range of key factors, including total population, population growth trends, the share of employer firms, local sales tax rates, and average commercial rent prices.

Each city was scored across these five indicators, with results weighted and combined into a 100-point index. A score of 100 represents the most advantageous environment for small businesses across Florida.

City Population as a Percentage of the State — Total 20 Points

To gauge the size and reach of each local market, we calculated how much of Florida’s total population resides in each city. Cities with a larger population share were awarded more points, reflecting broader consumer access and economic presence.

Percentage of Population Growth (2020-2023) — Total 20 Points

We analyzed population growth by measuring the percentage increase from 2020 to 2023. Cities experiencing faster population gains scored higher, as rapid growth often signals expanding demand and greater opportunity for new businesses.

Percentage of Employer Firms — Total 20 Points

Each city’s percentage of Florida’s total employer firms was used to estimate business activity and competitiveness. A higher concentration of employer firms suggests a stronger and more developed small business environment.

County Sales Tax Rate — Total 20 Points

To assess the cost of doing business, we examined the combined state and county sales tax rate for each city. Locations with lower overall rates received higher scores due to their more favorable tax climate for small businesses.

Average Commercial Real Estate Rent (per square foot) — Total 20 Points

We evaluated the average cost per square foot of commercial real estate in each city. More affordable rental markets earned higher marks, as lower overhead can significantly benefit new and growing businesses.

The Bottom Line

Florida presents a vibrant landscape for small businesses, with cities across the state offering a wide range of advantages, from strong population growth to favorable tax conditions and varying levels of affordability. Our rankings spotlight the best-performing cities based on market size, business density, tax environment, commercial rent, and recent demographic trends. Orlando leads the list thanks to its strong business presence, low tax rate, and access to a large and growing customer base.

B2B Reviews developed this analysis to help entrepreneurs and business owners make informed decisions about where to start or expand their ventures. Whether you’re looking for low operating costs, a booming population, or a well-established business community, Florida has a city that fits your strategy.

To set your business up for success, we recommend:

• Exploring city- and county-level tax incentives and programs
• Factoring in rent and real estate availability when budgeting
• Building connections with local business associations and chambers
• Staying up to date on grants, financing programs, and regulatory changes
• Prioritizing cities with long-term growth to ensure future stability

By choosing a Florida city that aligns with your business goals and tapping into the state’s resources, entrepreneurs can thrive in one of the Southeast’s most business-friendly environments.

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