Washington's "Top 10" Ranking Hides a Business Exodus

Washington placed 9th in U.S. News Best States, but 87% of that ranking is weighted toward quality-of-life factors, not business health. A spring 2026 employer survey found 24% of businesses considering leaving the state, nearly triple the winter 2025 level. Washington ranks 50th in short-term fiscal stability. https://clarkcountytoday.com/opinion/opinion-dont-be-fooled-by-the-hype/ #WashingtonState #BusinessExodus #Economy #SmallBusiness #WashingtonPolicy #Opinion