Florida has been ranked as the top state in the nation for attracting and developing a skilled workforce for the third consecutive year, according to the 2024 Talent Attraction Scorecard released by Lightcast. The annual report assesses states based on job growth, educational attainment, regional competitiveness, and migration patterns.
Governor Ron DeSantis responded to the ranking by stating: “Florida set an ambitious goal to be number one in workforce education by 2030—and we continue to march towards this achievement. We’re not just preparing for the future—we’re ahead of schedule, building a workforce ready for high-demand, high-wage careers today.”
The Lightcast report places Florida first in overall job growth and competitive effect. The state is also ranked second for skilled job growth and third for high-earning job growth. Several metropolitan areas in Florida scored highly as well. Seven out of the top ten large metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) nationwide are located in Florida, including Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach (#3), Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford (#4), Crestview-Fort Walton Beach-Destin (#5), North Port-Bradenton-Sarasota (#7), Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater (#8), Lakeland-Winter Haven (#9), and Naples-Marco Island (#10). Four mid-sized MSAs from Florida also made it into the national top ten: Wildwood-The Villages (#1), Panama City-Panama City Beach (#4), Punta Gorda (#5), and Sebastian-Vero Beach-West Vero Corridor (#9).
J. Alex Kelly, Florida Secretary of Commerce, said: “Under Governor DeSantis’ leadership, we’re creating opportunities for both job seekers and job creators through a strong focus on education and workforce training. Florida continues to lead the nation with an economy where workforce and talent development are a priority to our success as we continue to build a future full of opportunity for anyone ready to grow and succeed here in the Free State of Florida.”
Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas commented: “For the third year in a row, Florida has earned the top spot for attracting and developing a skilled workforce. This consistent Number 1 ranking is proof that our talent pipeline is delivering results. We’re committed to keeping this momentum going so Floridians are prepared for high-value careers and businesses have the talent they need to thrive.”
State University System Chancellor Ray Rodrigues highlighted collaboration between business leaders and universities: “Florida is a national leader because of intentional collaboration between the state’s business leaders and university faculty shaping curriculum. The State University System of Florida’s 2030 Strategic Plan highlights the importance of university presidents working with industry leaders, attracting top-tier faculty, and preparing students for successful careers. Thanks to Governor DeSantis and the Florida Legislature’s recent investment of $200M to recruit and retain world-class faculty, Florida can remain #1. The Lightcast rankings demonstrate our steadfast commitment to emphasizing degrees that propel students forward and align with Florida’s workforce needs.”
Adrienne Johnston, President and CEO of CareerSource Florida added: “Florida’s top ranking in talent attraction and development for the third year in a row is a testament to our strategic investments in workforce education and our commitment to preparing Floridians for the jobs of tomorrow. At CareerSource Florida, we’re proud to help lead the charge in building a resilient, future-ready workforce that powers our state’s continued economic success.”
The report also shows that Florida moved up significantly in educational attainment rankings since Governor DeSantis took office; it now ranks sixth nationally—a notable improvement attributed to efforts aligning educational programs with employer needs.
Since 2019, there have been 3.8 million new business formations in Florida—more than any other state—with over 360,700 new businesses already formed in 2025.
