Connecticut Leaps to 23rd in CNBC's 2026 Top States for Business
TL;DR
Connecticut rose five places to 23rd in CNBC’s 2026 America's Top States for Business rankings, aided by a heavier emphasis on infrastructure and CT’s strong performance in education (4th) and quality of life (5th). The state also ranked well in technology/innovation (19th), business-friendliness (21st), access to capital (23rd) and workforce (25th), while affordability remained a weakness (cost of doing business 40th, cost of living 44th). CNBC evaluated 50 states across 138 metrics; Ohio topped the list, followed by North Carolina (2), Virginia (3), Texas (4) and Minnesota (5). Among New England states, Massachusetts ranked 15th and Connecticut 23rd.
- Connecticut climbs five spots in CNBC’s Top States for Business rankings Hartford Business Journal
- Ohio is America's Top State for Business in 2026, capping yearslong rise with first No. 1 finish CNBC
- The biggest drag on Virginia’s business ranking is Trump The Washington Post
- North Carolina falls on CNBC's top business list as growth drives up costs Axios
- The State of Illinois Newsroom The State of Illinois Newsroom
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