Gov. Ron DeSantis on Monday celebrated Florida having the No. 1 economy in America for the third year in a row, according to a CNBC report.
"Florida has the lowest number of state workers per capita, the lowest debt per capita, the second-lowest spending per capita, no income tax, the #1 public higher education system, the lowest in-state tuition, universal school choice, law-and-order policies, and we're #1 for new business formations," DeSantis said.
Per the report, Florida totaled 363 out of 445 points for an A+ economic score. The Sunshine State specifically had a GDP of $1.34 trillion in 2024, 1.4% job growth, an AAA credit rating from Moody’s, and $185 billion, or 13.8% of GDP, in international goods trade.
Overall, the report analyzed states with the best ability to handle a recession.
"Economic growth and job growth remain solidly in the top ten, state finances are strong, and the state is a leader in new business formations," the report said. "Florida is a major player in international trade, but it comprises a relatively small percentage of the state’s overall economy."
"And only a small percentage of that international trade is with China, leaving the state in a better position than many when it comes to tariffs," the report continued. "Florida depends on the federal government for about 34% of its budget — and roughly two-thirds of its $34 billion Medicaid budget. That has Floridians keeping a wary eye on Washington."
Texas ranked second with 348 out of 445 points for a slightly less A+ economic score. North Carolina was third, followed by Delaware, New York, Washington, Idaho, Utah, Georgia, and South Carolina.
Touting the state's success, DeSantis also celebrated Florida being the No. 1 state for religious freedom, according to the First Liberty Institute's "Religious Liberty in the States" (RLS) Index.
A press release said the score is based on an evaluation of 47 legal protections and 20 total safeguards that reflect the "continued evolution of the measure of religious liberty protections across the states."
Florida ranked second in the evaluation in 2024.
"Religious freedom is a cornerstone of our nation's founding and essential to the American way of life," DeSantis said. "I’m proud that Florida stands at the forefront in defending this fundamental right, and as governor, I will always uphold and protect religious liberty.
