From technology talent to life sciences innovation, the latest Business Facilities rankings continue to strengthen both North Carolina and the Research Triangle’s position among the nation’s top destinations for business growth and investment.

The annual Business Facilities 2026 State and Metro Rankings provide insight into the locations attracting corporate investment, building highly skilled talent pipelines, and creating environments that support long-term economic success. For Wake County and the Research Triangle, this year’s results highlight many of the advantages that continue to drive site selection decisions and business expansion.

Metro Analysis

At the metro level, the Raleigh-Durham region ranked No. 2 nationally among metros with technology labor pools between 50,000 and 100,000 workers.

Business Facilities credited the region’s performance to the strength of the Research Triangle’s universities, research institutions and technology employers. This innovative ecosystem continues to generate a deep STEM talent pipeline while supporting growth in software development, life sciences technology and advanced research. The ability to consistently produce and attract highly educated talent remains one of the region’s greatest competitive advantages.

The Raleigh-Durham region also ranked No. 3 among U.S. Life Sciences Hubs, placing ahead of major markets such as Washington-Baltimore, New York-New Jersey, and San Diego.

Statewide Recognition

The report cited several factors driving the region’s rise, including expanding pharmaceutical and biotechnology investments, world-class research institutions and a growing biomanufacturing base. This recognition reflects years of growth that has transformed the Research Triangle into one of the nation’s premier destinations for life sciences research, development and manufacturing.

North Carolina earned several top-tier state rankings, including:

• #3 Best Business Climate
• #2 Fastest Growing State by Population
• #1 Corporate Tax Climate
• #3 Life Sciences Leader
• #5 for Foreign Direct Investment Projects
• #3 for Foreign Direct Investment Capital Investment
• #6 Tech Talent Pipeline

The report highlighted North Carolina’s thriving economy, skilled workforce, and success attracting investment across technology, life sciences and manufacturing. Together, these rankings reinforce the state’s unique combination of business competitiveness, talent availability, and long-term growth potential.

These rankings reinforce North Carolina’s and Greater Raleigh’s appeal as destinations where businesses can access talent, infrastructure, innovation, and opportunity. They closely align with the factors driving today’s corporate location decisions, including workforce availability, research and innovation ecosystems, industry clusters, and long-term growth prospects.

As companies evaluate where to launch, expand, or relocate operations, the Wake County continues to distinguish itself as a market that offers both business opportunities and a high quality of life. Raleigh’s combination of affordability, connectivity, educational excellence, and economic momentum offers companies room to grow and thrive.