America’s Top States for Business in 2026 Highlight Workforce Competitiveness
In 2026, U.S. states are being evaluated based on their workforce quality as a key factor in CNBC's annual competitiveness study. While nationwide worker shortages have improved since the pandemic peak, companies still seek skilled labor and favorable business conditions such as low costs, reliable infrastructure, and minimal regulatory hurdles.
Topics: economic development labor shortages state competitiveness workforce