Florida has been named the top state for attracting and developing a skilled workforce for the third consecutive year, according to the 2024 Talent Attraction Scorecard released by Lightcast. The report also notes that Florida is home to seven of the ten highest-scoring Large Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs) in the country, as well as four of the top ten Mid-Sized MSAs.
The Talent Attraction Scorecard evaluates states on factors such as job growth, education attainment, regional competitiveness, and migration data.
“Florida set an ambitious goal to be number one in workforce education by 2030—and we continue to march towards this achievement,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “We’re not just preparing for the future—we’re ahead of schedule, building a workforce ready for high-demand, high-wage careers today.”
In addition to being ranked first overall for talent attraction, Florida secured first place for overall job growth and competitive effect, second place for skilled job growth, and third place for high-earning job growth.
Among large metropolitan areas in Florida, Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach was ranked third nationally; Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford fourth; Crestview-Fort Walton Beach-Destin fifth; North Port-Bradenton-Sarasota seventh; Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater eighth; Lakeland-Winter Haven ninth; and Naples-Marco Island tenth. For mid-sized MSAs, Wildwood-The Villages was ranked first nationally; Panama City-Panama City Beach fourth; Punta Gorda fifth; and Sebastian-Vero Beach-West Vero Corridor ninth.
“Under Governor DeSantis’ leadership, we’re creating opportunities for both job seekers and job creators through a strong focus on education and workforce training,” said Florida Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly. “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.”
“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,” said Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas. “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.”
“Florida is a national leader because of intentional collaboration between the state’s business leaders and university faculty shaping curriculum,” said State University System Chancellor Ray Rodrigues. “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.”
“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,” said Adrienne Johnston, CareerSource Florida President and CEO. “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 state also placed sixth nationwide in educational attainment—a significant improvement since Governor DeSantis took office—attributed by officials to efforts aligning education programs with employer needs through targeted investments.
Since 2019, there have been 3.8 million new business formations in Florida with more than 360,700 new businesses already established in 2025 alone.
