Florida has been ranked as having the strongest state economy in the nation for the third consecutive year, according to CNBC’s 2025 Top States for Business study. The state earned an economy score of 363 out of 445 points, the highest among all 50 states.
The ranking is based on several economic indicators, including gross domestic product growth, job growth, fiscal health, the number of major corporate headquarters, housing market strength, and exposure to federal spending and international trade. Florida’s GDP grew by 3.6 percent in 2024, and job growth was measured at 1.4 percent. The state holds a AAA credit rating with a stable outlook from Moody’s.
“Florida is a major player in international trade, but it comprises a relatively small percentage of the state’s overall economy.,” the article says. “And only a small percentage of that international trade is with China, leaving the state in a better position than many when it comes to tariffs.”
According to the report, Florida had $185 billion in international goods trade in 2024, making up 13.8 percent of the state’s GDP. Only a small percentage of that trade involved China. Approximately 34 percent of Florida’s state spending comes from federal funds, including around two-thirds of the state’s $34 billion Medicaid budget.
Major corporations headquartered in Florida include CSX, Carnival, and Lennar. The state was also recognized as a national leader in new business formations. CNBC’s methodology ranked the economy as the most heavily weighted factor in determining state competitiveness in 2025.
