Florida has reached a new milestone by becoming the world’s 15th largest economy, according to the Florida Chamber Foundation. This development was announced during the Future of Florida Forum and Florida Chamber Annual Meeting in Orlando, where an overview of the upcoming Florida 2030 Blueprint Halftime Report was presented.
“When we launched the Florida 2030 Blueprint, Florida ranked 18th in the world,” said Mark Wilson, President & CEO of the Florida Chamber of Commerce and Foundation. “Today, we are 15th and gaining ground on Australia. This is the direct result of years of laser focus on free enterprise, principled leadership, smart policy decisions, and business and community leaders working together to secure Florida’s future. Florida’s rise is not just a state story. It is a global story.”
The Foundation’s report indicates that since launching its strategic plan, Florida has seen significant economic growth. The state has added high-wage jobs, expanded its workforce to over 10 million workers—more than the population of 40 U.S. states—and reduced childhood poverty through targeted initiatives.
Florida currently leads in several economic categories nationwide. It ranks first for new business start-ups, manufacturing job growth, net income migration, new business migrations, Black-owned businesses, and higher education system quality. The state also holds top positions for Hispanic- and women-owned businesses and maintains one of the lowest state debt levels per capita.
“Florida’s economic success is no accident,” said Sheridan Morby, Senior Research Economist at the Florida Chamber Foundation. “It is the result of businesses, government, and communities working toward a shared vision. The data show clear progress toward making Florida a top 10 global economy by 2030.”
Business and community leaders are encouraged to participate in the upcoming virtual 2026 Florida Economic Outlook & Jobs Solution Summit on January 29, 2026. The event will feature analysis from economists and industry experts to help guide strategic planning as economic trends evolve.
The Foundation noted that while initial reports suggested Florida had surpassed South Korea economically, updated GDP data for South Korea have not yet been released. The research team will continue monitoring these figures.
The Florida Chamber Foundation describes itself as a non-partisan organization focused on long-term strategies for economic competitiveness and prosperity in partnership with regional and state leaders.
