"This is the third time in less than a year that objective judges have named Georgia the top state for businesses," said Deal. "Since taking office, I've made it my top priority to make Georgia the No. 1 place in the nation to do business and create jobs. We've accomplished that goal three times over, and will continue working to cultivate a business environment where companies can grow and succeed. These successful policies have allowed us to create nearly 300,000 private sector jobs; that translates directly in better lives and better communities for the people of Georgia. This recognition, alongside our previous national rankings, will build on our momentum and keep the jobs engine humming."

In addition to being the top state for business, Georgia ranked first for labor climate and second for business environment, overall infrastructure and global access. In 13 of 18 subcategories, Georgia placed in the top three, including first for cooperative state government and leading workforce development programs.