Ohio takes best spot for business as North Carolina slips from No. 1 ranking

Ohio has overtaken North Carolina to become the top state for business in CNBC's 2026 ranking, ending North Carolina's six-year reign at the top. This shift highlights Ohio's growing economic appeal, likely driven by its business-friendly policies and investment in infrastructure. Meanwhile, North Carolina's slip to second place signals a competitive business environment across the U.S., where states are continually vying for top spots to attract businesses and economic growth. This change underscores the dynamic nature of state economies and the factors that influence business location decisions.