America’s Top States for Business 2026: NC No. 2

CNBC announced its 2026 America's Top States for Business rankings, and North Carolina came in behind No. 1 Ohio.

A quick recap: North Carolina ranked No. 1 in 2025, 2023, and 2022, and No. 2 in 2024.

Raleigh Economic Development Director Kyle Touchstone shared the following:

“North Carolina is an economic powerhouse. We didn’t get here by chance, this is something leaders have honed for many years and will continue to do so.”

Wake County Economic Development Executive Director Michael Haley said:

“This sustained performance reinforces the state’s and Wake County's position as a national leader in economic development and a top choice for business.”

You can see the full rankings on the CNBC website.