STATE:

Why NFIB

Take Action

Get Support

Stay Informed

Podcast Podcast

Careers Careers

Join Now

Home / News /

North Carolina Ranks No. 2 in Economic Outlook Ranking

April 18, 2023

It ranked higher than any other state in the Southeast

North Carolina Ranks No. 2 in Economic Outlook Ranking

North Carolina ranked higher than Florida and other states in the Southeast to place 2nd on the American Legislative Exchange Council’s latest State Economic Outlook Ranking. Florida came in 9th. The only state to rank higher was Utah. The Economic Outlook Ranking is a forecast based on states’ current standing in 15 state policy variables. Each of these factors is influenced directly by state lawmakers through the legislative process. According to ALEC, states that spend less — especially on income transfer programs — and states that tax less — particularly on productive activities such as working or investing — generally experience higher growth rates than states that tax and spend more. North Carolina ranked No. 1 on three of the 15 variables: whether it has an estate or inheritance tax, its state minimum wage, and its right-to-work status. Click here to read the report.

Topics:

Uncategorized

State:

North Carolina

Get to know NFIB

NFIB is a member-driven organization advocating on behalf of small and independent businesses nationwide.

Learn More

Satellite view of a powerful hurricane with a clearly defined eye near the southeastern U.S. coast in the Atlantic Ocean.

June 1, 2026

NOAA Predicts Below-Normal Atlantic Hurricane Season

Small business owners should still prepare for possible disruptions.

May 29, 2026

Small Business Owners in Seven Counties May Apply for Disaster Relief

Small business owners affected by the April 20 wildfires in South Georgia can now apply for low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administra…

Woman in pink shirt helps a man in a suit at a cafe counter, with jars of drinks and fresh fruit (pineapples, limes) in view against green walls.

May 27, 2026

Rep. Murphy Meets with NFIB Members in Greenville

Topics including the rising cost of healthcare and the 20% small business deduction.

May 27, 2026

New NFIB Industry-Specific Survey Shows Shift in Small Business Optimism

WASHINGTON, D.C. (May 27, 2026) – The NFIB Research Center released an industry-specific quarterly Small Business Economic Trends survey highlighting the const…

North Carolina Ranks No. 2 in Economic Outlook Ranking

Related Articles