Florida Council of 100 Q2 2025 CEO Survey is more optimistic than national outlook

The Sunshine State’s economic trajectory appears brighter than national trends, according to the Florida Council of 100 Q2 2025 CEO Economic Outlook Index.

The quarterly index is a forward-looking measure capturing expectations from top Florida CEOs on sales, capital spending, and employment. It is modeled after the nationally recognized Business Roundtable (BRT) index.

The Florida Council of 100’s Q2 2025 CEO Economic Outlook shows that Florida CEOs remain optimistic — especially when it comes to job creation, hiring, and long-term growth.

Florida’s overall CEO Economic Outlook Index score for Q2 was 83, compared to 69 for the BRT national index with 50 or above indicating economic expansion.

“Florida’s top business leaders are signaling continued confidence in the state’s economic momentum,” said Mike Simas, President & CEO of the Florida Council of 100. “From expanded hiring plans to robust investment strategies, this index underscores the strength and direction of Florida’s economy — and the role our members play in driving it forward.”

Florida vs. National Sentiment

Compared to their national peers, Florida CEOs are showing greater optimism across key indicators:

• Hiring Confidence Surges: Florida CEOs reported a significantly higher employment outlook (87) compared to national peers (35), highlighting strong confidence in workforce growth and talent availability.

• Stronger Capital Investment Plans: Florida leaders reported a capital spending index of (76) versus (65) nationally, showing more willingness to invest despite broader uncertainty.

• Measured Sales Outlook: Florida CEOs projected a more conservative sales outlook (86) compared to the national index (107), reflecting disciplined growth expectations amid market uncertainty.

“This quarterly index gives us a powerful new lens into Florida’s private sector — and it comes at a critical time,” said George LeMieux, Chair of the Florida Council of 100. “Our members are not only building companies — they’re shaping communities, creating opportunities, and growing Florida’s economy. These results show that Florida is on solid footing, and we intend to keep it that way.”

The next FC100 CEO Economic Outlook Index will be released in September.