Pennsylvania Remains in Top 20 States for Business Amidst Rankings Changes

News Summary

Pennsylvania holds the 17th position in CNBC’s ‘America’s Top States for Business 2025’ report, maintaining its rank from 2024 but slipping two spots since 2023. While it excels in quality of life, the state faces challenges in workforce and business friendliness, ranking 37th and 40th respectively. In contrast, Ohio made a significant leap to 5th place, driven by strong infrastructure and favorable business costs. The rankings highlight competitive landscapes and areas of improvement for Pennsylvania to attract investment.

Pennsylvania has maintained its position in the top 20 rankings in CNBC’s latest survey, securing the 17th spot in “America’s Top States for Business 2025”. While the state has not lost any ground from its 2024 ranking, it has slipped two places compared to its performance in 2023. In a contrasting performance, Ohio has made a significant leap, moving up to 5th place, marking its first entry into the top five of this annual ranking.

These rankings are crucial as they analyze states based on multiple metrics including economic performance, business climate, infrastructure, workforce quality, business friendliness, operational costs, and quality of life. In the current evaluation, North Carolina emerged as the top state, reclaiming the number one position after Virginia secured it in 2024.

Pennsylvania’s Strengths and Weaknesses

Pennsylvania’s rankings show a mixed performance. The state has relatively close rankings in economy and infrastructure, indicating solid foundations for business operations. However, significant weaknesses are apparent in the areas of workforce and business friendliness, where Pennsylvania ranks 37th and 40th, respectively. The state, however, shines in quality of life, being positioned in the top 10 nationally, showcasing its livability and community standards.

Ohio’s Rise in Rankings

Ohio’s success in the latest CNBC survey marks a noteworthy achievement, as it sits behind only North Carolina, Texas, Florida, and Virginia. The state has earned high ratings in infrastructure, where it claims the top spot, and is also ranked second concerning the cost of doing business. These factors contribute to Ohio’s enhanced business environment, making it an attractive destination for companies looking to establish or expand their operations.

Comparative Rankings of Neighboring States

As part of the broader analysis of the country’s business climate, nearby states such as West Virginia and New York also featured in the rankings, positioned at 40th and 23rd respectively. This comparison highlights the diverse economic landscapes and varying degrees of business attractiveness across the region.

Implications of the Rankings

The information presented in CNBC’s survey reflects not only current economic conditions but also potential future trends in business development and investment decisions across the United States. The rankings suggest areas where states like Pennsylvania may need to improve, particularly in workforce quality and business climate, to remain competitive in attracting new businesses. Conversely, Ohio’s rapid rise signals a growing recognition of its favorable business conditions, particularly appealing to companies seeking an advantageous operational framework.

In summary, while Pennsylvania holds a steady yet slightly declining status in the competitive landscape, Ohio has positioned itself as a newcomer in the upper echelon of business-friendly states. The implications of these rankings will resonate within state economies as they strategize for future growth.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• WPXI: Pennsylvania’s Business Ranking
• Wikipedia: Pennsylvania
• BusinessBecause: Wharton MBA Ranking
• Google Search: Pennsylvania business climate
• Patch: Best School Districts in PA
• Google Scholar: Pennsylvania economy
• CBS News: Top Schools in PA
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Pennsylvania
• Patch: Radnor Township School District Ranking
• Google News: Best schools Pennsylvania