Alabama’s reputation for a growing business environment has just received another honor, as the state has landed on top ten list for the best states to do business.

Last week, Site Selection Magazine announced that the Yellowhammer State placed 9th overall in their annual business climate report. It reflects a significant jump over the past year- Alabama ranked 11th in 2015.

The report took into consideration a survey of corporate facility investors and site consultants who were asked to indicate which states they believe are the most business-friendly. On that front, Alabama was ranked 8th.

Results include data that reflects on states’ new investments, construction, and job growth. Additional factors like workforce skills, incentives, tax structure, transportation infrastructure, and quality of life were also analyzed.

Senator Pro Tem Del Marsh (R- Anniston) told Yellowhammer News that he would like to see Alabama higher on the list in the future.

“Job creation has been our number one priority, so it comes as no surprise that Alabama is among the top states for business,” Sen. Marsh said. “With that said, there is still work to do to ensure that Alabama not only stays in the top, but improves on that ranking in the future.”

By far, Southern states dominated in 2016. Georgia topped the list, followed by North Carolina (#2), Ohio (#3), Tennessee (#4), Texas (#5), Virginia (#6). Louisiana and South Carolina both placed 7th on the list, while Indiana landed at the #10 spot.

It’s not the first time Alabama has caught the eye of Site Selection. In 2015, two Alabama metro areas, Decatur-Morgan County and Auburn-Opelika, were both featured in top lists for their success in attracting new business.