Florida business leaders closed out 2025 with rising confidence and a more optimistic outlook than their national peers, according to a new survey from the Florida Council of 100.
The Council’s Q4 2025 CEO Economic Outlook Index climbed to 100, up from 91 in the third quarter, marking a nine-point increase. By comparison, the national CEO index rose four points to 80. The index is a forward-looking measure of executive expectations for sales, capital investment and employment over the next six months.
“Florida’s business leaders remain confident in the state’s economic fundamentals as we look ahead to the next six months,” said Mike Simas, President & CEO of The Florida Council of 100. “These numbers show growing optimism when it comes to hiring and sales and steady gains in investment, even amid broader national uncertainty.”
Florida CEOs reported strengthening expectations across all three categories, led by hiring. The employment subindex surged 13 points to 100, far above the national reading of 41. Sixty-one percent of Florida CEOs said they expect employment levels to rise over the next six months, signaling continued job growth as the state enters 2026.
Revenue expectations also improved. The sales subindex increased from 100 to 112, with 71 percent of respondents anticipating higher sales. While Florida’s sales outlook remains below the national index of 120, the state’s quarterly improvement outpaced the national gain, suggesting accelerating momentum.
Confidence in capital investment showed steadier growth. The capital spending subindex rose from 85 to 88, exceeding the national score of 79. Half of Florida CEOs expect capital investments to increase, pointing to continued spending on expansion, infrastructure and innovation.
“Florida CEOs are sending a clear signal that they expect continued job growth and economic expansion,” said George LeMieux, Chair of The Florida Council of 100. “This quarter’s results reflect confidence in Florida’s workforce, business climate, and long-term growth prospects.”
