Southern states tee off as ease of living drives investment race

The battle for investments among key southern states is escalating, and the new secret weapon is quality of life. Forget less paperwork and faster approvals, some of them are marketing everything from golf tournaments for expats and showcasing wildlife reserves to guaranteeing an exciting nightlife as well as modern amenities. Vibrant, liveable conditions have officially become a non-negotiable top ask as companies funnel investment dollars into the states.

“We are focusing on ease of doing business to ease of living,” Paul Arun, senior vice…