North Carolina Ranked As The Top State For Business
If you are just beginning your career in the Tal Heel state, you have good timing. CNBC recently reported on the best states in the country for business in 2023, and…
If you are just beginning your career in the Tal Heel state, you have good timing. CNBC recently reported on the best states in the country for business in 2023, and North Carolina ranked number one. North Carolina came in first on CNBC's list last year as well.
"To rank America’s Top States for Business in 2023, CNBC scored all 50 states on 86 metrics in 10 broad categories of competitiveness," they state. Numerous analytical sources were then leveraged to determine each state's business performance. The following categories were then measured.
- Workforce
- Infrastructure
- Economy
- Cost of Doing Business
- Life, Health, and Inclusion
- Tech and Innovation
North Carolina's Results
Workforce and economy were the strongest points for North Carolina. In fact, North Carolina finished as the number one state for business economy. "Its $560 billion gross domestic product grew by a healthy 3.2% last year, though growth has leveled off at the beginning of 2023, according to the Commerce Department," CNBC states.
The only area where North Carolina ranked toward the lower half of the country was life, health, and inclusion.
CNBC also reported that the North Carolina unemployment rate is 3.40% as of May 2023. In addition, the top corporate tax rate measured 2.50%.
What's fascinating about the specifically detailed North Carolina report is that you can see an applied grade to each category that was measured. The following area received an A grade.
- Education
- Workforce (A+)
- Economy
- Technology and Innovation
Life, health, and inclusion could use a little work, as they received a D+.
This summer, Business NC detailed the best employers in the state for 2023. The banking industry was particularly strong, with First Bank, North State Bank, and Dogwood State Bank all being recognized.
"North Carolina continues to excel in life sciences, as well as transportation equipment, aviation services, building products, consumer foods, and financial services," Business NC explained in relation to the state's economic development.
North Carolina Has One of the Best Winter Getaways in the U.S.
It's never too early to start planning an exciting winter getaway, especially since the most popular winter vacation spots get booked up quickly. The good news, though, is that most people take vacations in the summer, so traveling in the winter can be a bit more relaxing. You are also able to usually find better travel rates during the winter season, except during the holidays. If you don't have to travel during the holidays, just don't, because it's a mess. So, what are the best winter getaways in the U.S.? North Carolina has one of them.
I've researched some of the most popular winter vacation destinations in hopes of finding the perfect spot. The following list includes not just sunny, warm getaways, but also some areas that people who love snow can enjoy. Honestly, many people who live in a warm climate like to flock to a snowy location for a bit during the winter to get that seasonal experience, even if that seems counter intuitive. Of course, those who live in the northern parts of America love to go to a warm spot and get away from their daily lives filled with snow and ice.
I'm a Michigan girl, so I'm very familiar with the cold and ice in the winter. Not that I like it. Each year, I say I'm going to escape, even if it's just for a few days, to a warmer location. But, I never do. Maybe this year will be different. Looking at vacation rates, it's fairly easy to find some good deals, again, if it's not during the holiday travel season. Read on for some of the bets winter getaways in the U.S., based on my research. What's your favorite winter vacation spot? Reach out to me on social media here and let me know. Have a fantastic winter, and stay warm.
Best Winter Getaways in the U.S.
5. Savannah, Georgia
If you're looking for a mild getaway, Savannah, Georgia, is a great choice. It's pretty mild in the winter, so not too cold or too hot. The Historic District is a popular winter vacation spot, too.
4. Asheville, North Carolina
The beautiful area of Asheville, North Carolina, has plenty of gorgeous snowfall, and it's less dangerous than many other areas with snowfall. Lately, Asheville has one up in population, but it's still a popular tourist destination. One choice spot is the French Broad River, with lots of winter activities, breweries and restaurants.
3. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
If you want to enjoy a winter vacation and learn about history, Philadelphia is a great vacation spot. Sure, it's won't be like sunny Florida. But, Philly has lots of great museums and historical spots to enjoy indoors, while staying toasty.
2. Traverse City, Michigan
I know what you're thinking. Why go to Michigan in the winter? Well, if you love snow, then it's worth the trip. Traverse City, Michigan, is a quaint town, but it's big enough to have lots of things to do and places to stay. It's also cold in the winter but not as cold as, say the Dakotas.
1. Key West, Florida
If you want to get away from the snow and ice, go to Key West, Florida. It's considered one of the finest tropical spots in the U.S. during the winter months. Soak up the sun and have a margarita, because why not?
