ATLANTA — Georgia has once again been crowned the nation’s top state for business, marking an unprecedented 12-year winning streak in Area Development magazine’s annual rankings.
“Site selectors across the country have spoken, and for 12 straight years they’ve chosen Georgia,” Governor Brian Kemp said. “This is not guaranteed — it’s earned through teamwork and a long-standing commitment to excellence.”
The Top States for Doing Business survey, now in its 16th year, ranks states based on 15 categories such as workforce, infrastructure, and business climate. Georgia placed in the top five in 10 of those categories, claiming the overall No. 1 spot once again. South Carolina, Texas, North Carolina, and Ohio round out the top 5.
Georgia topped the categories for Cooperative Local and State Government, Favorable Regulatory Framework, and Logistics and Infrastructure.
VIEW Category rankings
Keeping the state competitive
Lt. Governor Burt Jones credited the win to statewide collaboration. “This reflects the efforts of local leaders, legislators, and everyday Georgians who show up and invest in our future,” he said.
House Speaker Jon Burns called the achievement the result of “decades of strong leadership, forward-thinking policies, and strategic investments” that have fueled job growth across the state.
Economic development officials say Georgia’s success is no accident. Programs like the Rural Site Development Initiative, which prepares communities for industrial investment, are helping keep the state competitive.
“Success in economic development takes years of planning and partnerships,” said GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson. “With world-class workforce programs and global connectivity, Georgia continues to give companies what they need to thrive.”
