South Carolina Cruises to the Top Spot...Again!
Site Selection Group, a full-service location advisory, economic incentives and real estate services firm, recently conducted its annual assessment of the lower 48 states to determine rankings based on competitiveness for corporate investment. As the ability to hire and retain a qualified workforce is the #1 factor that drives final site selection decisions, readySC, Apprenticeship Carolina and the state’s 16 technical colleges were instrumental in solidifying South Carolina’s top position.
2023 Best States for Manufacturing
| Rank | State | Overall Index Score |
| 1 | South Carolina |
113.8% |
| 2 | North Carolina |
109.9% |
| 3 | Tennessee |
108.5% |
| 4 | Texas | 107.5% |
| 5 | Utah |
106.1% |
Factors that Drive Final Site Selection Decisions
- Ability to hire and retain a qualified workforce
- Ability to receive and ship goods in a cost-effective and timely manner
- Business environment and regulatory climate, including a strong manufacturing presence and low cost of doing business
- Infrastructure, including access to consumer bases and proximity to major ports
- Real estate
- Economic incentives
Assessment Categories and Weightings
| Category | Weighting |
| Workforce & Market Alignment | 50% |
| Operating Costs | 25% |
| Geographic Positioning | 25% |
(source: Site Selection Group)