RALEIGH, N.C. (WITN) – North Carolina has maintained its strong position as the second-best state for business according to CNBC, marking its fifth consecutive year in the top three.
The ranking underscores the state’s robust economy, highly skilled workforce, and favorable business climate, with previous rankings of third in 2019, second in 2021, and first in both 2022 and 2023.
“Investing in our people is key to our ongoing success,” remarked Governor Roy Cooper. “North Carolina’s thriving economy and skilled workforce continue to attract businesses and drive economic growth.”
Machelle Baker Sanders, N.C. Commerce Secretary, emphasized the state’s commitment to education, infrastructure, and quality of life issues such as childcare. Gene McLaurin, chair of the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina’s Board of Directors, credited collaborative efforts across the state for its economic achievements.
CNBC’s evaluation of 128 metrics across ten categories placed North Carolina third in workforce quality, highlighting its strong economy, business-friendly environment, and access to capital. Since Governor Cooper assumed office in 2017, the state has secured over 115,000 jobs and $53 billion in capital investments, drawing major corporations like Apple and Toyota.
Meanwhile, CNBC ranked Virginia as the top state for business, praising its public education system and infrastructure investments that contributed to its high standing.
Governor Cooper continues to advocate for improvements in quality of life areas, despite North Carolina receiving a D+ in CNBC’s assessment, particularly focusing on childcare affordability, reproductive healthcare, and voting rights as critical investments for the state’s future.
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