Florida CEOs are expressing greater economic optimism in the state compared to their national counterparts, according to data from The Florida Council of 100’s Q4 2025 CEO Economic Outlook Index this week.
Per the release, Florida's CEO Economic Outlook Index rose from 91 in Q3 to 100 in Q4, compared to a national rate of 80, indicating business leaders' trust in the state's economic trajectory over the next six months.
Moreover, Florida's index increased nine points quarter-over-quarter compared to a four-point rise nationally.
“Florida’s business leaders remain confident in the state’s economic fundamentals as we look ahead to the next six months,” President & CEO of the Florida Council of 100 Mike Simas said in a release. “These numbers show growing optimism when it comes to hiring and sales and steady gains in investment, even amid broader national uncertainty.”
The Florida Council of 100’s Economic Outlook Index measures expectations from Florida's top CEOS on sales, capital investment, and employment over the next six months and is designed after the Business Roundtable (BRT) CEO Economic Outlook Index.
A breakdown of Florida vs. the national sentiment is below:
Sales
- 71% increase over the next six months.
- Subindex up 100 to 112 (12-point quarterly increase).
- Outpaced national gain (six points).
Capital Investment
- Investing up from 85 to 88.
- Higher than the national average (79), with a quarterly increase of +3 over the national average of +2.
- 50% optimism from Florida CEO's in capital investments growth, pointing to a commitment to infrastructure, expansion, and innovation.
Employment Outlook
- Hiring up among Florida CEO's in quarter four.
- Employment subindex up 87 to 100, a 13-point rise.
- Up over the national average, which rose just four points.
- 61% optimism from Florida's CEO's on employment levels for the next six months.
“Florida CEOs are sending a clear signal that they expect continued job growth and economic expansion,” Florida Council of 100 Chair George LeMieux said. “This quarter’s results reflect confidence in Florida’s workforce, business climate, and long-term growth prospects.”
