Illinois Soars to 13th in CNBC’s Top States for Business Rankings

Illinois is getting top marks in a recent survey of Best U.S. States for Business, which has the Land of Lincoln reaching its best ranking ever.

Highest-Ever Ranking Reflects Major Gains in Several Sectors

According to a press release from Governor Pritzker's office, Illinois reached its highest position ever in CNBC's annual Top States for Business rankings.

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Illinois experienced a dramatic jump, rising from 30th in 2019 to 13th place in 2025, primarily due to significant gains in the state's economy, education, and infrastructure.

Strength in Key Categories Signals Balanced Growth

Illinois was in the Top 5 of the CNBC ranking for access to capital (#5) and technology and innovation (#6), along with strong rankings in infrastructure (#8) and education (#3).

Major year-to-year improvements were also shown in workforce quality (up 18 spots to #19) and cost of doing business (up 13 spots to #19).

These rankings are a clear sign that our strategy of economic growth, fiscal responsibility, and workforce investment is working. We are laying the groundwork for long-term prosperity. -Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker

Under Pritzker's administration, Illinois has launched new business attraction incentives and committed $500 million in site readiness to repurpose state-owned land for future development, according to the press release.

Education Investment Fuels Workforce Pipeline

Illinois now ranks #4 for Pre-K-12 education, according to U.S. News, following a $2.8 billion boost in K-12 funding and creation of 11,000 preschool seats since 2023.

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According to the CNBC ranking, Illinois ranked #41 for Economy, #38 for Business Friendliness, and #23 for Quality of Life.

CLICK HERE to see how all 50 states ranked in the CNBC poll.