Statement: CNBC Rankings Reinforce the Need to Keep Virginia Competitive

RICHMOND, VIRGINIA — The Virginia Chamber of Commerce recognizes the release of CNBC’s America’s Top States for Business 2026 rankings, which placed Virginia No. 3, improving one position from its No. 4 ranking in 2025. The rankings once again highlight the Commonwealth’s many competitive advantages including infrastructure, technology and innovation, quality of life, and workforce which reaffirm Virginia’s position as one of the nation’s premier destinations for business, investment, and talent.

This recognition reflects the Commonwealth’s many strengths, but some key metrics serve as a warning sign. An Economy ranking of No. 23 and Cost of Doing Business ranking of No. 26 signal that we are losing ground where it matters most: job creation, economic growth, and private-sector dynamism. Virginia must remain focused on advancing policies that strengthen our economic growth, the cost of doing business, and overall competitiveness.

The Virginia Chamber remains committed to working alongside business leaders and policymakers to advance the priorities outlined in Blueprint Virginia 2035, ensuring the Commonwealth continues to compete and lead for decades to come.

About the Virginia Chamber of Commerce:

The Virginia Chamber of Commerce is the largest business advocacy organization in the Commonwealth, with more than 33,000 alliance members. The Virginia Chamber is a non-partisan organization that champions the interests of the business community in the legislative, regulatory, and political arenas to serve as the catalyst for positive change in all areas of economic development and competitiveness for Virginia. Learn more at www.vachamber.com.