BUSINESS

Ohio Tops CNBC Ranking as Nation's Best Business State

PUBLISHED Jul 9, 2026, 10:23 AM ET

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Media Bias Meter

Sources: 8

Center 100%

Sources: 8

Columbus, Ohio. CNBC named Ohio the No. 1 state for business in its 2026 "America's Top States for Business" rankings, a first-time top finish announced in early July 2026. State officials including Gov. Mike DeWine, Lt. Gov. Jim Tressel and JobsOhio leaders cited multi-year investments and a rise from No. 5 in 2025 to secure the top position. This week state leaders emphasized the ranking's basis in categories such as Infrastructure and Cost of Doing Business, where CNBC awarded Ohio A+ grades, and credited low business costs, robust power supplies, market access and shovel-ready sites. Local development executives and companies such as Joby Aviation and SNC highlighted regional projects and said the designation could support further recruitment and investment efforts in coming months.

By James Porter | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

2007: CNBC ranking program begins; Ohio ranked in mid-range.
2010: Ohio placed No. 34 in CNBC rankings.
2015: Minnesota last Midwest state to top CNBC list.
2025: Ohio reached No. 5 in CNBC's Top States for Business.
July 2026: CNBC names Ohio No. 1; state and local leaders publicly announce and react.

News Intelligence

Ohio's top business ranking means more jobs and investment in your community. It could also mean more opportunities for local businesses to grow. Keep an eye out for new developments in your area.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 8
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 8

Who Benefited

Ohio state government, JobsOhio, regional economic development organizations, and local businesses gained national recognition likely to attract investment and talent.

Who Impacted

Competing states and regions may experience a relative reputational disadvantage while communities not prioritized by development may see fewer immediate benefits.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 8
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 8
Distribution:: Left 0%, Center 100%, Right 0%

Who Benefited

Ohio state government, JobsOhio, regional economic development organizations, and local businesses gained national recognition likely to attract investment and talent.

Who Impacted

Competing states and regions may experience a relative reputational disadvantage while communities not prioritized by development may see fewer immediate benefits.