America's Top States for Business 2011 - Special Report

COUNTDOWN TO FACEBOOK IPO

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And The Winner Is — Virginia
The Old Dominion State is back on top, knocking out Texas and capturing first-place honors for the third time in five years.

OVERALL RANKINGS:

Top Five

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Bottom Five

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CATEGORY RANKINGS:

Access to Capital

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Business Friendliness

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Cost of Doing Business

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Cost of Living

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Economy

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Education

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Quality of Life

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Technology & Innovation

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Infrastructure & Transportation

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Workforce

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SLIDESHOWS

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Governors' Mansions
These houses are as famous as their residents — maybe even more.
Biggest Job Rate Declines
These states have had the biggest declines in their jobless rates in the past year.
Most Expensive States
Here's what a basket of goods will cost you in ten states.

TOP STATES VIDEOS

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Virginia is Tops for Business

Discussing what makes the Old Dominion state work so well, and what federal lawmakers can learn from it, with former Gov. Douglas Wilder, (D-VA), and former Gov. James Gilmore, (R-VA).

Top State for Business: Virginia
CNBC's Scott Cohn has the story behind this year's top state for business: Virginia.
Top States for Business: Texas
CNBC's Scott Cohn has the No. 2 top state for business.
Top State Countdown: North Carolina
CNBC's Scott Cohn reveals North Carolina scored high points for workforce, infrastructure, and low taxes, making it a perennial contender for top state.
Top States for Business: Georgia
CNBC's Scott Cohn reports Georgia came in fourth as a top state contender, and reveals another hint about the top state winner.