Business
Business Climate Shifts Across States
Arkansas topped CNBC's annual Top States rankings for business in 2026, attracting workers with low costs and high quality of life. Meanwhile, Hawaii ranked as the worst state due to challenges in maintaining its quality of life.
Coverage timeline — 2 articles
CNBC
Hawaii is America's Worst State for Business in 2026, even its legendary quality of life takes a dip
Hawaii, America's Worst State for Business in 2026, is trying to address one of the few disadvantages it can control: quality if life. It isn’t easy.
2026-07-09 13:38 UTC
CNBC
Arkansas is the Most Improved State for Business in CNBC's annual Top States rankings, as working-age adults are attracted by low costs and quality of life.
2026-07-09 13:39 UTC