Carlton A. on Florida:
"Florida has long been regarded as a place for tourists and retirees. However, because of it's location, univeristy system, void of income tax, well maintained and developed highway infrastructure, numerous international and regional airports, sea ports..."

Tracy F. on North Dakota:
"Leadership gurus around the globe say that today’s companies want a workforce whose actions speak louder than their words. Companies want to hire and promote people who get to the point, get the job done and get results...."

Claude L. on North Carolina:
"North Carolina is certainly among the top five states in business. All you have to do is ask people from Manteo to Murphy why they live, work, worship and play here...."

Betty K. on Texas:
"I think Texas is # 1. This is a great state to work and reside in. San Antonio has great medical facilities and research."

Joseph R. on Nevada:
"NEVADA! It is very hard to believe that you have ranked Nevada at #43! In Nevada there is no state income tax, no corporate tax, no inheritance tax, we have one of the best economies in the nation..."

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Washington

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Redmond, Washington is the home of Microsoft. / AP

Year of Statehood:	1889
Governor:	Christine Gregoire (D)
Population:	6,287,759
Gross State Product:	$42,512 (per capita)
Growth Rate:	3.2%
Unemployment Rate:	4.6%
Major Industries:	Aircraft, Computer Software, Aluminum Refining, Lumber
Related Links:	- State Economic Development - Official State Website

Rank	Category	Score
22	OVERALL	1015
36	Cost of Doing Business	179
37	Workforce	144
30	Economy	114
16	Education	149
10	Quality of Life	160
7	Technology & Innovation	123
13	Transportation	67
36	Cost of Living	15
35	Business Friendliness	19
6	Access to Capital	45

Data is a real-time snapshot *Data is delayed at least 15 minutes

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Redmond, Washington is the home of Microsoft. / AP

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