News Summary
North Carolina has been recognized as the best state for business by CNBC for 2025, marking its third consecutive top ranking since 2022. The state achieved an impressive score of 1,614 points out of 2,500 and excelled in key areas such as the economy, workforce, and infrastructure. Under Governor Josh Stein’s leadership, North Carolina is projected to attract significant investments and create thousands of jobs. Despite facing challenges in quality of life and worker protections, the state’s business-friendly climate continues to thrive.
North Carolina Named Best State for Business in CNBC Rankings for 2025
North Carolina has been honored as the best state for business by CNBC for 2025, marking a remarkable achievement for the state as this is the third time it has secured the top position since 2022. Previously, North Carolina held the No. 1 ranking in both 2022 and 2023 and was a runner-up in 2021 and 2024.
Key Metrics and Rankings
In the CNBC evaluation, North Carolina scored 1,614 out of a possible 2,500 points. The state excelled in various categories that are critical to businesses, including economy, workforce, infrastructure, and overall business friendliness. The ranking is based on ten competitiveness categories that assess how states promote themselves to businesses.
In 2023 alone, North Carolina announced 218 business recruitment and expansion projects projected to create nearly 17,000 new jobs and generate $15.2 billion in capital investment. This includes substantial investments such as $730 million from five major projects in Greenville-Pitt County.
Economic Growth and Job Creation
Since Governor Josh Stein took office in January 2025, North Carolina is projected to attract $20 billion worth of investments and create over 23,000 jobs. Noteworthy announcements include JetZero’s plans to construct a new factory in Greensboro, which is expected to invest $4.7 billion and create more than 14,500 jobs by the year 2063. Additionally, Amazon is investing $10 billion to build new data centers in the state, augmenting their previous investment of $12 billion since 2010.
The state’s economic performance is notable, as it ranks third in the Economy category with a GDP growth rate of 3.7%, which is the fifth-strongest in the country. North Carolina added more than 60,000 jobs last year, bolstering its position as home to one of the country’s best workforces.
Workforce and Education
North Carolina is particularly strong in attracting college-educated workers and boasts comprehensive STEM and vocational education programs. These factors contribute significantly to its favorable business climate.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the positive recognition, North Carolina faces several challenges. The state ranks 29th for Quality of Life and has received criticism for inadequate worker protections. Additionally, it is still recuperating from the impacts of Hurricane Helene, which caused considerable damage and required over $2 billion in recovery funds.
Furthermore, Governor Stein has highlighted the importance of federal assistance in disaster recovery while expressing concerns regarding potential cuts to Medicaid as a result of changing federal policies. In terms of economic vulnerability, North Carolina’s economy is heavily influenced by international trade, with over 20% of its GDP stemming from international trade in goods in 2024.
Conclusion
The latest ranking reinforces North Carolina’s position as a top contender for business investment and expansion opportunities, showcasing its strengths in workforce development, infrastructure, and economic growth. As policymakers work to improve quality of life and address challenges, the continued focus on attracting business to the state remains pivotal for its future economic landscape.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Beaufort: A Hidden Gem on North Carolina’s Crystal Coast
Discover the Outer Banks: Named Vacation of the Year for 2025!
Explore North Carolina’s Scenic Coastline
International Students Support Outer Banks Businesses Amid Staffing Challenges
Discover North Carolina’s Small Towns: Outdoor Adventures Await
CDC Updates COVID-19 Vaccination Guidelines for Children
2025 Entertainment Guide for Tidewater and Outer Banks
Discover North Myrtle Beach: Prime Vacation Home Investment
Discovering the Crystal Coast: A Coastal Paradise
Global Markets Rally on Trade Deal Hints
Additional Resources
- CNBC: North Carolina Named Best State for Business
- WECT: CNBC Ranks North Carolina First for Business
- NC Newsline: North Carolina Ranked Top State for Business
- Google Search: North Carolina Best State for Business
- Wikipedia: North Carolina
Author: STAFF HERE OUTER BANKS WRITER
The OBX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOBX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in the Outer Banks, Dare County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Outer Banks Seafood Festival, NC VIP Fishing Tournament, and NCBBA Red Drum Tournament. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce and Outer Banks Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in tourism, retail, and hospitality that power the local economy such as Kitty Hawk Kites, Outer Banks Mall, and Avon Fishing Pier. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HERERaleigh.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
