Florida's economic outlook is on the upswing compared to national trends, according to data from the Florida Council of 100 Q2 2025 Economic Outlook Index.
"Florida's top business leaders are signaling continued confidence in the state's economic momentum," President & CEO of the Florida Council of 100 Mike Simas said in a release. "From expanded hiring plans to robust investment strategies, this index underscores the strength and direction of Florida's economy - and the role our members play in driving it forward."
The quarterly index is based on presumptions from top Florida CEOs on sales, capital spending, and employment. It is also modeled after the Business Roundtable (BRT) index.
Moreover, the Council expressed optimism in Florida's economic outlook, particularly in job creation, hiring, and long-term growth. Specifically, Florida's overall CEO Economic Outlook score for Q2 was 83, compared to 69 for the BRT national index.
Anything scored 50 or above indicates economic growth, the Council said.
According to its release, Florida CEOs appear to have higher economic optimism than their national peers across the following indicators.
Hiring Confidence: Florida CEOs outlined an employment outlook score of 87, much higher than the national score of 35, emphasizing strong optimism in workforce growth and talent availability.
Stronger Capital Investment Plans: Florida leaders announced a capital spending index score of 76, ten points higher than the national average of 65, exhibiting a desire to invest despite wider uncertainty.
Measured Sales Outlook: Florida CEOs gave a conservative sales outlook score of 86 to the national index of 107, indicating controlled growth projections amid market unpredictability.
"This quarterly index gives us a powerful new lens into Florida's private sector - and it comes at a critical time," Florida Council of 100 Chair George LeMieux said. "Our members are not only building companies - they're shaping communities, creating opportunities, and growing Florida's economy. These results show that Florida is on solid footing, and we intend to keep it that way."
