CNBC 2025 · #46 of 50

Louisiana

Less favourable
Overall score
67 /100

Rank: #46 of 50

Category breakdown

All 10 CNBC categories — score out of category max, rank among 50 states.

Economy #47 173/445
Infrastructure #46 152/405
Workforce #44 140/335
Cost of Doing Business #7 207/295
Business Friendliness #35 117/270
Quality of Life #46 87/265
Technology & Innovation #38 101/255
Education #22 57/110
Access to Capital #32 24/60
Cost of Living #39 22/60

CNBC methodology — 10 categories, 2,500 points max

Founder Snapshot

Lite operational context for Louisiana — what to know before operating here. Sourced public facts, separate from CNBC scores.

Tax posture

Louisiana corporate franchise and income taxes apply to most corporations; personal income tax is progressive up to 4.25%. Sales tax combines state and local rates.

Source: Louisiana Department of Revenue

Business registration

Form entities through the Louisiana Secretary of State Commercial Division.

Source: Louisiana Secretary of State

Compliance calendar

Annual reports are due on the anniversary date of formation; franchise tax returns follow separate LDR deadlines.

Source: Louisiana SOS — Annual Reports

Multi-state heads-up

If you operate outside Louisiana or hire remotely — informational, not legal advice.

Remote sales & economic nexus

Louisiana remote seller rules require sales tax collection once economic nexus thresholds are exceeded.

Source: Louisiana DOR — Remote Sellers

Remote employees & payroll

Employers with Louisiana workers must register for withholding and unemployment insurance.

Source: Louisiana DOR — Withholding

Also applies across state lines

Regulatory Pulse

Recent regulatory changes in Louisiana — sourced public updates for founders operating here.