Florida ranks number one for quality of living environment, second for business

A recent survey by Chief Executive Magazine of 500 CEOs from across the country has ranked the Sunshine State second in rankings for the best states for business. Florida trails only Texas, which earned the top spot for the second consecutive year. 

Florida's decision to eliminate the machinery equipment and sales tax drove the state up in the rankings. The survey measured tax and regulatory benefits, the quality of the workforce and the quality of the living environment. Florida did beat out the 49 other states in the category of quality of living environment, and Governor Scott celebrated the achievement.

"This news is proof that our efforts to create the ideal business climate in Florida have paid off […] Since taking office, we have worked to remove nearly 3,000 regulations on small businesses, paid down $3.6 billion in state debt and our unemployment rate stands at 6.3 percent, down from 11 percent in 2010. While more than 563,000 private-sector jobs have been added to our economy since December 2010, we know there's still work to do. We will keep working to create an opportunity economy and to make Florida the best state in the nation for business," Scott stated in a press release. 

Florida also ranked among the best states for startups, falling in at number 5 in the nation in scoring by the Tax Foundation. Florida has clearly demonstrated its willingness to accommodate businesses, and it has begun to pay off. Insurance News reports that the state experienced a 133 percent increase in capital investment in 2013. 

For companies looking to change location and take advantage of Florida's enticing tax incentives, On Point Executive Center can make the transition affordable and efficient. With furnished office space available by the hour, day or month and a host of virtual office and secretarial services, On Point is ready to help your business make Florida its new home.