MONTGOMERY, Alabama – Area Development, a national publication, ranked Alabama No. 3 in its 2018 “Top States for Business” survey and gave the state a shout-out for improved economic development policies.
Alabama’s overall ranking in the Area Development survey improved three spots from 2017 and 2016. The state has placed in Top 10 of the publication’s annual ranking of state business-friendliness for nearly a decade, consistently joining its Southern neighbors at the top of the pack.
“As competitive as the environment is, with ever-shifting policies and programs, it’s clear that some states have really figured out how to hit the sweet spot,” Area Development notes in a story posted online Thursday.
“Regular appearances at or near the top are a reflection of success, and the ongoing success that builds upon past wins and positive reputations,” it adds.

