Ohio Named America's Top State For Business in 2026

Ohio has been named America's Top State for Business in 2026, earning the top position in CNBC's annual rankings after consistently finishing among the top two states over the past six years.

The report said Ohio continues to attract major investments, including a $4.2 billion data center project in Pike County backed by SoftBank and AEP.

The state is also home to 224 existing data centers, reinforcing its growing role in technology and infrastructure development.

According to the report, workforce development remains a challenge, with only about 19 percent of adults holding a bachelor's degree.

JobsOhio has announced a $300 million, 10-year initiative to recruit and train skilled workers, while some local groups have raised concerns over large-scale development projects across the state.

Related Tweet:

Ohio is America's Top State for Business in 2026, capping yearslong rise with first No. 1 finish https://t.co/qIXpiFEID2

— CNBC (@CNBC) July 9, 2026

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tippinsightsTIPP Staff