A new study ranks the Central Coast as the 11th-best city in which to start a business in NSW.
Reckon evaluated the top 50 most populated Australian cities to determine the best locations for start-ups in 2025.
The study analysed 17 factors in four major categories: talent pool; business landscape; internet speed; and cost of living.
Nationally, the Central Coast ranked 36 in a list of the top cities, five places higher than its ranking in 2024.
The report says the Central Coast’s strongest asset is its talent pool score, which currently sits above average at 51.11/100.
Business NSW Regional Director Scott Goold said it was a great result for the Central Coast.
“While of course we would like to rank higher, it is significant that we have climbed five places since last year,” he said.
“It comes as no surprise considering our Business Conditions Survey has ranked Central Coast businesses as having the highest business confidence level in the state over the past three quarters.
“In addition to being one of the most attractive lifestyle destinations in NSW, we have a strong and supportive business community in close proximity to Sydney and Newcastle.”
Reckon CEO Sam Allert said starting a small business in Australia wasn’t easy, especially with the rising cost of living.
“But small businesses really are the engine room of our economy, and we’re seeing growth pop up in places you might not expect,” he said.
“When we looked at things like talent, infrastructure and affordability, it became clear that opportunity is no longer confined to the capital cities.
“For business owners, flexibility is everything.
“It’s important to always keep an eye on emerging markets with the right mix of talent, affordability and infrastructure.
“A lot of the time, the best opportunities are in places flying under the radar.
“Invest in digital, stay close to your local community and don’t be afraid to think beyond the big cities.
“That’s where you’ll often find the real potential.”
See the full report at www.reckon.com/au/small-business-resources/startup-cities/
Central Coast ranks 11th out of 16 cities in NSW, below Newcastle, Wollongong, Albury-Wodonga, Dubbo, Wagga Wagga, Tamworth etc. Nationally, Central Coast ranks 36th out of the 50 cities in this study.
So, not as great as the positive spin of the article would suggest.
It’s interesting the “comprehensive study” didn’t appear to include an index for the ability to get a commercial DA approved (for which Central Coast ranks equal last out of the areas included in NSW)
Thank you Patrick, a very reasonable critique of the study. The study did find a small light on the horizon, the access to skilled people and a small increase in ranking from last year.