Florida business leaders remained optimistic about the state’s economic outlook in the third quarter of 2026, according to new findings released Tuesday by the Florida Council of 100.
The Florida CEO Index registered 96 in the third quarter, down 10 points from a record 106 in the second quarter but above its reading of 91 during the same period last year. Florida’s overall score also exceeded the national index of 94.
The index measures executives’ expectations for sales, capital investment and employment over the next six months. All three categories declined from the previous quarter but remained above their year-earlier readings.
Florida’s sales expectations index fell to 104 from 118 in the second quarter, although it remained above last year’s reading of 100. The national sales index stood at 129.
Approximately 65% of Florida CEOs expect sales to increase over the next six months, compared with 83% of executives nationally.
Capital investment expectations declined slightly to 96 from 99 in the previous quarter but increased 11 points from a year earlier. Florida’s reading matched the national index of 96, with 59% of surveyed Florida executives anticipating increased investment.
Employment expectations showed the largest difference between Florida and the nation. The state’s employment index measured 89, compared with 58 nationally, a 31-point advantage.
Nearly half of Florida CEOs, 49%, expect to increase employment over the next six months, while 10% anticipate workforce reductions. Nationally, 36% expect to increase hiring and 28% anticipate reductions.
“Hiring expectations remain particularly strong relative to the nation, and investment expectations are substantially higher than a year ago,” said George LeMieux, chairman of the Florida Council of 100.
The council, which represents more than 200 companies employing over 1.3 million Floridians, conducts the survey quarterly to assess business confidence and expectations for economic activity.
