SLC listed 7th for low cost of doing business

Business • Low-cost benefits and electricity are behind ranking.

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Salt Lake City is ranked as the seventh most cost-attractive mid-sized city in the country in which to do business, according to a new study by the tax and accounting firm KPMG.

The firm's "Competitive Alternatives" study for 2012 looked at 13 different locations nationwide. Communities were ranked in 26 different categories that included the cost of labor, taxes, real estate and utilities.

"The study enables companies [that are considering relocating] to perform a 'quick scan' of locations to determine which markets can offer an advantageous business environment," said Hartley Powell, principal in KPMG's global location and expansion services practices.

Salt Lake City came in No. 7 on the list, benefitting from low "statutory and other employer-paid benefits" and relatively inexpensive electricity costs.

Oklahoma City topped the list, with the study finding strong cost advantages for labor, facility leases, expenses and property taxes. —

Top 10 most attractive business locations

1. Oklahoma City

2. Nashville

3. New Orleans

4. Indianapolis

5. Raleigh, N.C.6. Austin, Texas

7. Salt Lake City

8. Buffalo, N.Y.

9. Wilmington, Del.

10. Providence, R.I.

Source: KPMG