Virginia Climbs to #3 in CNBC’s Top States for Business

Virginia climbed to the No. 3 spot overall in CNBC’s 2026 America’s Top States for Business rankings, reinforcing the Commonwealth’s position as one of the nation’s premier destinations for business investment and long-term growth. The annual rankings recognize states that excel in the factors companies value most, including infrastructure, workforce, business competitiveness and quality of life. Virginia’s No. 3 finish continues a remarkable track record of competitiveness. Since CNBC launched its Top States for Business rankings in 2007, the Commonwealth has earned a Top 5 ranking 18 times in 19 editions of the list. 

Photo credit: Comstock Companies

Virginia ranked No. 2 in the nation for Infrastructure, CNBC’s most heavily weighted category in 2026. As companies place increasing value on reliable transportation networks, digital connectivity, utilities and speed to market, Virginia continues to deliver the assets businesses need to succeed.

These infrastructure advantages have helped make Northern Virginia a global hub for AI, cloud computing, aerospace, defense, and other innovation-driven industries.

Virginia ranked in the Top 10 for Workforce, underscoring the strength of the Commonwealth’s talent pool. Employers benefit from a highly educated and cleared talent pipeline with expertise across technology, cybersecurity, and other high-growth industries.

Northern Virginia exemplifies the strength of Virginia’s workforce. In Fairfax County, 65% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and the county has the largest population of young professionals under age 34 in the Commonwealth. Combined with a strong pipeline of graduates from regional universities and workforce programs, these advantages ensure that companies have access to the skilled professionals they need to innovate and grow.

Virginia’s No. 7 ranking for Quality of Life reinforces why Northern Virginia continues to attract top talent from around the world. The region pairs exceptional career opportunities with vibrant communities, top-ranked schools and universities, extensive parks and trails, renowned arts and cultural institutions, rich history, and global connectivity through Dulles International Airport. Residents enjoy the best of both worlds: the energy and opportunity of the nation’s capital alongside easy access to scenic parks, historic sites, and outdoor recreation.

Virginia’s No. 3 overall ranking reflects a business climate built on proven success. Rather than relying on a single competitive advantage, the Commonwealth has consistently delivered across infrastructure, talent, innovation, and quality of life over the past five years. This consistent performance continues to make Virginia a preferred destination for companies looking to start, expand and invest.

Together, these rankings reinforce why companies across the world’s fastest-growing industries continue to choose Virginia for long-term investment and growth.

For Fairfax County and Northern Virginia, the rankings reinforce the advantages that global companies consistently cite when choosing where to locate and grow: world-class digital and transportation infrastructure, access to exceptional talent, proximity to federal customers, policymakers, and decision-makers, and a vibrant, globally connected region that offers an unparalleled quality of life.

Ready to grow in one of the nation’s top business climates? Our Business Investment team can help you explore why Fairfax County and Northern Virginia offer the infrastructure, talent, and innovation ecosystem your company needs to succeed.

Connect with our Business Investment Team today.

Breaking News

• Reston-Based Empower AI Acquires Highlight Technologies in Federal AI Push – Washington Business Journal
• EVA Air’s New Dulles-Taipei Route Becomes Airport’s Longest Nonstop Flight – Patch
• Fairfax County-Based Carfax Spun Off Into New Publicly Traded Company – Washington Business Journal
• Mitre Proposes Consolidating Planned Tysons Offices, Making Room for Housing – FFXnow
• Macerich Assembles Nearly 8 Acres Near Tysons Corner Center – Washington Business Journal