In 2025, CNBC ranked all 50 states based on 135 metrics across 10 categories to determine competitiveness for businesses. Vermont, Maine, and New Jersey secured the top three positions for quality of life. The methodology remains consistent, focusing on factors influential in site selection and economic development. New metrics were added to assess risks from trade wars and federal budget constraints, while infrastructure metrics were enhanced to address business power and data needs. The ranking is grounded in data analysis rather than subjective opinions.
To rank America's Top States for Business in 2025, CNBC scored all 50 states on 135 metrics in 10 broad categories of competitiveness.
Each category is weighted based on how frequently states use them as a selling point in economic development marketing materials, with Economy No. 1 this year.
New in 2025, we have added metrics to gauge the states' risks from a trade war and a shrinking federal budget.
Our study is not an opinion survey. We use data from a variety of sources to measure the states' performance.
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