COLUMBUS — Ohio has been named CNBC's Top State for Business for the first time, earning the number one ranking in the network's annual nationwide study of economic competitiveness. CNBC credited Ohio's rise to its low cost of doing business, strong transportation infrastructure, affordable housing, abundant electric power, market access, and inventory of shovel-ready development sites. Governor Mike DeWine called the ranking evidence that years of economic development efforts are paying off. "This number one ranking proves that Ohio is the best place in America for business and all that comes along with it, including jobs, quality of life, and opportunities for everyone," DeWine said. Ohio's climb has been steady over the past several years. The state ranked 34th in CNBC's business rankings in 2010 before moving to 15th in 2022, 12th in 2023, seventh in 2024, fifth in 2025, and first this year. State leaders pointed to investments in site development, workforce training, career-technical education, environmental cleanup, infrastructure improvements and economic development as key factors in the state's success. JobsOhio President and CEO J.P. Nauseef credited collaboration among state, regional and local partners. "This Top State recognition belongs to Team Ohio," Nauseef said. "Ohio succeeds because government, economic development organizations, employers, workforce partners and local communities all work toward the same goal."
The Ohio Chamber of Commerce welcomed the ranking but cautioned that continued investment will be needed to maintain the state's competitive position.
"Rankings aren't permanent — they're earned every year," Ohio Chamber President and CEO Steve Stivers said. "If Ohio wants to remain the best state for business, we can't coast." The ranking comes as Butler County continues to see significant economic development activity, including recent announcements of Weidmann Electrical Technology's $155 million manufacturing investment in Middletown and Monroe's approval of the $140 million Project Clear distribution facility. CNBC evaluated all 50 states using 138 metrics across 10 categories, including infrastructure, workforce, business costs, technology, quality of life and the overall economy.
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