Northeastern Pennsylvania -
Pennsylvania’s rise to the No. 1 business climate in the Northeast and 11th nationally, as ranked by Site Selection Magazine, underscores the growing economic momentum being felt directly in Northeastern Pennsylvania - a region increasingly recognized for its strategic location, workforce readiness, and industrial capacity.
The Commonwealth’s seven-spot jump in the national rankings reflects the Shapiro Administration’s continued implementation of its 10-year Economic Development Strategy, which is strengthening regional economies, such as NEPA, by improving competitiveness, accelerating project approvals, and investing in shovel-ready sites.
Why the Ranking Matters for NEPA
Site Selection Magazine’s rankings are based on factors such as job growth, tax climate, and the presence of fast-growing companies—all areas where Northeastern Pennsylvania continues to stand out. The region’s central location within a one-day drive of major East Coast markets, access to interstate highways and rail infrastructure, and deep labor pool within the Scranton–Wilkes-Barre Metropolitan Statistical Area position NEPA as a prime destination for logistics, manufacturing, and advanced industry investment.
Pennsylvania also ranked eighth nationally for Inc. 5000 companies, signaling a strong environment for fast-growing businesses—many of which are increasingly choosing Northeastern Pennsylvania for expansion due to competitive costs, available sites, and workforce availability.
“This ranking reinforces that Pennsylvania’s long-term economic strategy is delivering real results,” said DCED Secretary Rick Siger. “Under Governor Shapiro’s leadership, we are competing again by investing in our economy, strengthening communities, and making government more efficient.”
Economic Growth Backed by Data
Recent analysis from Moody’s Analytics further supports Pennsylvania’s momentum, identifying the Commonwealth as the only state in the Northeast with a growing economy and one of just 16 states nationwide experiencing continued economic expansion. For Northeastern Pennsylvania, that growth is translating into increased site activity, industrial development, and corporate investment.
NEPA’s advantages have also been reinforced by Area Development, which ranked Pennsylvania among the Top 20 Best States for Business and placed the Commonwealth ninth nationally for Site Readiness Programs - with Pennsylvania standing as the only Northeast state to make the list. These programs directly benefit Northeastern Pennsylvania by accelerating infrastructure improvements and preparing large-scale sites for development.
Investments Reaching Northeastern Pennsylvania
Recent investments announced by the Shapiro Administration highlight how statewide momentum is driving local impact. Notably, Mint-X’s $10.5 million investment in Luzerne County, which will relocate manufacturing operations from New York and create more than 100 new jobs, demonstrates how Northeastern Pennsylvania is capturing growth as companies seek competitive locations in the Northeast.
In addition, funding through initiatives like PA SITES is helping prepare shovel-ready locations across the Commonwealth, including in Northeastern Pennsylvania, ensuring the region remains competitive for large-scale industrial and manufacturing projects.
Since taking office, Governor Shapiro’s reforms have helped attract nearly $31.6 billion in private-sector investment and support the creation of more than 16,700 new jobs statewide, reinforcing conditions that benefit regions like NEPA, where site readiness, workforce access, and transportation connectivity align.
A Competitive Future for Northeastern Pennsylvania
From logistics and advanced manufacturing to technology-driven investment, Northeastern Pennsylvania is well-positioned to capitalize on Pennsylvania’s improving business climate. With streamlined permitting, record-setting private investment, and continued focus on workforce and infrastructure, the region is emerging as a top location for companies seeking growth opportunities in the Northeast.
As Pennsylvania continues to rise in national rankings, Northeastern Pennsylvania stands ready to deliver the sites, workforce, and strategic advantages that today’s businesses demand.
