Florida business leaders expressed stronger confidence in near-term economic growth than their national peers during the third quarter, signaling continued optimism about hiring and investment opportunities even as national sentiment remains more cautious.
According to the Florida Council of 100’s Q3 2025 CEO Economic Outlook Index, the state’s overall score climbed eight points from the previous quarter to 91, compared with 76 for the Business Roundtable’s national index. The quarterly survey, conducted from Sept. 9 to 15 among 123 executives, measures expectations for sales, capital spending, and employment over the next six months.
Nearly half of respondents, 46 percent, said they expect to increase hiring compared with just 25 percent nationally, yielding an employment subindex of 87 versus 37 for the national measure. The Council said the gap highlights continued confidence in Florida’s labor market and availability of skilled talent.
“Florida’s economy is on the rise, and our CEOs are building for the future, growing teams, sparking innovation, driving investment, and creating new opportunities that strengthen Florida’s communities,” said Mike Simas, president and CEO of the Florida Council of 100.
Investment expectations also remained upbeat. Forty-nine percent of Florida CEOs reported plans to boost capital spending, producing a subindex of 85, eight points above the national average. The state’s index rose nine points from the previous quarter, while the national measure gained 12, indicating that Florida firms are sustaining momentum despite a mixed national picture.
Sales projections were more measured but still positive. Sixty-four percent of Florida respondents expect higher sales in the next six months, generating a subindex of 100 compared with 114 nationally. The Council noted that Florida’s sales outlook rose 14 points from last quarter, twice the rate of national improvement, suggesting steady but cautious optimism as inflation pressures ease.
Council Chair George LeMieux said the quarterly index “signals increasing optimism among our members who are collaborating with business leaders around the world to create opportunity and welcome innovation so that Florida’s economy and workforce can thrive.”
