News Summary
Alabama has achieved a noteworthy milestone by being ranked No. 8 in the annual Top States for Doing Business report by Area Development magazine. This recognition highlights Alabama’s strengths in categories such as favorable property tax, overall cost of doing business, and various business incentive programs. Governor Kay Ivey and Commerce Secretary Ellen McNair emphasized the state’s commitment to fostering a pro-business environment that attracts significant investments across critical sectors. As Alabama continues to adapt to economic challenges, its ranking reaffirms its position as a favorable state for business operations.
Alabama has been named one of the top 10 states for doing business, according to the annual Top States for Doing Business report released by Area Development magazine. The announcement, made by Governor Kay Ivey on Wednesday, places Alabama at No. 8 overall.
In this ranking, Alabama distinguished itself in several key categories, earning the top position for Favorable Property Tax. The state also excelled with a No. 3 ranking for Overall Cost of Doing Business and was recognized in the top 10 across nine categories, including:
- No. 4 for Business Incentive Programs
- No. 6 for Cooperative Local and State Government and Site Readiness Programs
- No. 7 for Workforce Training Programs and Availability of Sites
- No. 9 for Energy Cost
The annual survey evaluates states based on various factors, including tax structure, incentives, workforce readiness, and site availability. Governor Ivey stated that Alabama’s high ranking serves as confirmation that the state is open for business and progressing towards success. She noted that the state’s focus remains on low taxes, reducing red tape, and investing in people and infrastructure.
Commerce Secretary Ellen McNair emphasized that Alabama is dedicated to creating a pro-growth, pro-business environment, illustrating the state’s commitment to attracting major growth projects in vital sectors such as automotive, aerospace, chemicals, and advanced manufacturing.
In September, it was announced that Alabama would see nearly $2 billion in new capital investment through high-impact projects across the state. The 2025 rankings reflect a shift in corporate priorities in response to changing market demands, particularly focusing on speed, workforce readiness, and infrastructure development.
Officials noted that for states to maintain competitive advantages in today’s economic climate, they must execute projects efficiently while synchronizing land, labor, logistics, and leadership—qualities that Alabama aims to exemplify.
Alabama has consistently ranked among the top 10 states in Area Development’s business-friendliness survey throughout Governor Ivey’s tenure, notably achieving a No. 8 ranking in 2024 as well. The findings from this year’s evaluation reiterate the state’s ability to adapt and thrive amidst evolving economic challenges.
The top-ranking state for doing business for the twelfth consecutive year remains Georgia, which holds the number one position in the survey. Alabama’s ability to secure a high position in this report reflects its ongoing efforts to cultivate a robust economic landscape conducive to business operations.
The recognition by Area Development magazine serves to highlight not only Alabama’s strengths but also the strategies that are in place to attract future investments and foster sustainable economic growth.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- AL.com: Alabama is one of the top 10 states for doing business
- Wikipedia: Alabama
- Wiregrass Daily News: Alabama ranked among top states for business in 2025 report
- Google Search: Alabama business doing business report
- Alabama News Center: National publication ranks Alabama as a top state for doing business
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Business
- Yellowhammer News: Alabama climbs in key top states for business metric
- Google News: Alabama doing business report
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTSVILLE WRITER
The HUNTSVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHuntsville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntsville, Madison County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Panoply Arts Festival, Rocket City Brewfest, and Huntsville Comic & Pop Culture Expo. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce and HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, plus leading businesses in aerospace, defense, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Boeing, SAIC, and Mazda Toyota Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBirmingham.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
