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With the economy continually evolving and the workforce adapting to new norms, it’s vital to identify which states are leading the charge in reestablishing business operations. As we transition into 2026, states have adopted varied approaches to business operations, reflecting their unique economic landscapes and public health policies.
This article explores the current landscape of states that are most “open for business,” providing insights into their operational capacities and any remaining restrictions.
The Most Open For Business States
These ten states exemplify a commitment to revitalizing their economies. While many have not completely returned to pre-pandemic norms, businesses and employees are gradually regaining a sense of stability.
Continue reading for a comprehensive list of all 50 states and their current business statuses.
How We Determined the Rankings
Each state was evaluated based on three criteria:
- Date Restrictions Were Lifted
- Business Operating Capacity
- COVID Testing Rates Relative to Cases
We examined each state’s policies to determine the percentage of capacity allowed for businesses to operate. We ranked states based on when restrictions were lifted, recognizing that some states had different approaches throughout the pandemic.
Furthermore, we calculated the number of tests administered per COVID-19 case, as states with higher testing rates are generally more prepared to manage public health risks while reopening their economies.
1. Montana
Restrictions Lifted: 04/26/2020
Operating Capacity: 50%
Ratio of Tests Given to Cases: 50
Montana currently leads as the most open state for business. With restrictions lifted on April 26, a variety of establishments including retail, restaurants, and recreational facilities are operating at 50% capacity. The state is actively planning further phases to enhance business operations.
2. North Dakota
Restrictions Lifted: 05/01/2020
Operating Capacity: 50%
Ratio of Tests Given to Cases: 30
North Dakota did not implement a stay-at-home order but enforced measures for social distancing. As of May 1, restaurants, gyms, and salons are operating at 50% capacity, reflecting a strong commitment to business recovery.
3. Tennessee
Restrictions Lifted: 04/30/2020
Operating Capacity: 50%
Ratio of Tests Given to Cases: 17
The expiration of the stay-at-home order in Tennessee on April 30 has facilitated the reopening of various sectors, allowing for a 50% operating capacity in many establishments. The increased testing efforts continue to support the state’s reopening strategy.
3. Alaska
Restrictions Lifted: 04/25/2020
Operating Capacity: 25%
Ratio of Tests Given to Cases: 78
Alaska has gradually reopened various sectors since April 25, with an initial operational capacity of 25%. The state is focused on maintaining low case numbers while allowing businesses to resume operations.
5. Alabama
Restrictions Lifted: 05/01/2020
Operating Capacity: 50%
Ratio of Tests Given to Cases: 12
Alabama reopened many business sectors on May 1, with a focus on maintaining a 50% capacity while actively monitoring COVID-19 cases through robust testing.
6. Mississippi
Restrictions Lifted: 04/27/2020
Operating Capacity: 50%
Ratio of Tests Given to Cases: 9
In Mississippi, the expiration of the stay-at-home order on April 27 has enabled retail and service industries to operate at 50% capacity, with ongoing testing being a priority for public health safety.
7. West Virginia
Restrictions Lifted: 05/03/2020
Operating Capacity: 25%
Ratio of Tests Given to Cases: 47
West Virginia lifted its stay-at-home order on May 3, allowing certain businesses to operate at 25% capacity, with a strong focus on safety and health protocols.
8. Oklahoma
Restrictions Lifted: 04/24/2020
Operating Capacity: 10%
Ratio of Tests Given to Cases: 20
Oklahoma has approached reopening without a formal stay-at-home order, instead permitting businesses to implement safety measures. As of April 24, various sectors have reopened with a focus on compliance with health guidelines.
9. Utah
Restrictions Lifted: 05/01/2020
Operating Capacity: 10%
Ratio of Tests Given to Cases: 23
In Utah, businesses resumed operations on May 1 with strict adherence to health protocols, showcasing a commitment to balancing economic activity with public health.
10. Texas
Restrictions Lifted: 04/30/2020
Operating Capacity: 25%
Ratio of Tests Given to Cases: 12
Texas initiated its reopening on April 30, with a phased approach allowing various sectors to operate at 25% capacity while maintaining extensive testing efforts to track the virus.
The Path to Business Recovery
While no state has fully returned to the pre-pandemic business landscape, many have made significant strides toward normalcy. States are establishing guidelines to gradually reopen businesses, ensuring that they can adapt to changing public health circumstances. The future of business operations in the U.S. remains promising as continuous testing and adaptive strategies pave the way for recovery.
The Most Open For Business States
| Rank | State | Restrictions Lifted | Operating Capacity | Covid Test To Cases |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Montana | 4/26/2020 | 50% | 50 |
| 2 | North Dakota | 5/1/2020 | 50% | 30 |
| 3 | Tennessee | 4/30/2020 | 50% | 17 |
| 3 | Alaska | 4/24/2020 | 25% | 78 |
| 5 | Alabama | 4/30/2020 | 50% | 12 |
| 6 | Mississippi | 4/27/2020 | 50% | 9 |
| 7 | West Virginia | 5/3/2020 | 25% | 47 |
| 8 | Oklahoma | 4/24/2020 | 10% | 20 |
| 9 | Utah | 5/1/2020 | 10% | 23 |
| 10 | Texas | 4/30/2020 | 25% | 12 |
| 11 | Colorado | 4/26/2020 | 50% | 5 |
| 11 | Wyoming | 5/1/2020 | 10% | 22 |
| 13 | Iowa | 5/1/2020 | 50% | 6 |
| 13 | Vermont | 5/15/2020 | 25% | 22 |
| 15 | Arkansas | 5/6/2020 | 33% | 16 |
| 16 | Nevada | 5/9/2020 | 50% | 10 |
| 17 | Florida | 5/4/2020 | 25% | 13 |
| 18 | North Carolina | 5/22/2020 | 50% | 12 |
| 18 | Missouri | 5/3/2020 | 25% | 11 |
| 20 | Indiana | 5/4/2020 | 50% | 6 |
| 20 | New Mexico | 5/15/2020 | 20% | 20 |
| 22 | Nebraska | 5/4/2020 | 50% | 5 |
| 23 | Idaho | 4/30/2020 | 0% | 14 |
| 24 | South Dakota | Never closed | 10% | 6 |
| 25 | New Hampshire | 5/31/2020 | 50% | 11 |
| 25 | South Carolina | 5/4/2020 | 20% | 11 |
| 25 | Georgia | 4/30/2020 | 10% | 7 |
| 28 | Ohio | 5/29/2020 | 50% | 8 |
| 29 | Oregon | 5/15/2020 | 0% | 23 |
| 30 | Kansas | 5/3/2020 | 10% | 7 |
| 31 | Louisiana | 5/15/2020 | 25% | 7 |
| 32 | Arizona | 5/15/2020 | 10% | 10 |
| 32 | Hawaii | 5/31/2020 | 0% | 59 |
| 34 | Maine | 5/31/2020 | 10% | 16 |
| 35 | Rhode Island | 5/8/2020 | 10% | 8 |
| 36 | Virginia | 6/10/2020 | 50% | 6 |
| 37 | Minnesota | 5/17/2020 | 19% | 9 |
| 37 | Wisconsin | 5/26/2020 | 10% | 11 |
| 39 | Kentucky | Late May | 0% | 15 |
| 40 | Pennsylvania | 6/4/2020 | 50% | 4 |
| 41 | Michigan | 5/28/2020 | 10% | 6 |
| 42 | Washington | Still in Effect | 0% | 14 |
| 43 | California | Still in Effect | 0% | 14 |
| 44 | New York | 5/15/2020 | 0% | 3 |
| 45 | Massachusetts | 5/18/2020 | 0% | 5 |
| 46 | Illinois | 5/31/2020 | 0% | 5 |
| 47 | Connecticut | 5/20/2020 | 0% | 4 |
| 48 | Delaware | 5/31/2020 | 0% | 4 |
| 49 | Maryland | Still in Effect | 0% | 5 |
| 50 | New Jersey | 6/5/2020 | 0% | 3 |
Author
Amanda Postma is a writer for the Zippia Career Advice blog with a focus on creating entertaining content to help you through your job search. She received her BA from the University Of Missouri-Columbia.
