colorado listed as number nine in top states for business survey

An annual report issued by the network CNBC, looking at the overall climate for business in the nation’s states, has placed Colorado in the top ten.

More specifically, the Centennial State came in at number 9 in its overall scoring, but scored an eight in the subcategory of the quality of its workforce, and seven for its overall quality of life.

Only two other states in the West made the network’s top ten: Texas with an overall score of 2, and Utah, coming in with an overall score of 4.

Lower on the list was Arizona at 20, although the Grand Canyon State received a high number 2 in the subcategory of its workforce.

New Mexico received an overall 41 ranking, with its highest subcategory score listed at 24 for the condition of its infrastructure.

Number one on the overall list was Virginia, which also scored high in the subcategories of its workforce, condition of infrastructure, and education.

Although three Deep South states, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi, were listed in the survey’s overall bottom ten, Rhode Island was ranked dead last, scoring particularly low in the subcategories of its overall economy, infrastructure, and cost of doing business.

The CNBC survey scores are based on some 64 metrics in ten competitiveness categories.

A statement by the network said that the states are graded “based on the qualities they deem most important in attracting business.”

Of Colorado, the survey says: “For truly outstanding quality of life, head for the Rockies. Coloradans are healthy, there is plenty to do, and the state is tolerant and inclusive. These are great selling points to companies looking to attract skilled workers.”

By Garry Boulard

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