This year, Minnesota inched its way up Forbes' annual list of the country's best states for business and careers-climbing to 15th after coming in 17th in 2009.

Minnesota garnered attention for its quality of life-which ranked fourth overall. The state was also recognized for its labor supply, a category in which it ranked eighth among states. It came in 13th based on growth prospects.

Minnesota ranked lowest-37th-for its economic climate. It also fared poorly in the regulatory environment and business costs categories, ranking 32nd and 30th, respectively.

Utah topped the best-for-business list, followed by Virginia and North Carolina. Maine ranked last.

Both North Dakota and Iowa ranked higher than Minnesota, coming in at 11th and 13th, respectively. Wisconsin trailed its Midwestern neighbors, ranking 43rd overall.

Forbes based its list on a variety of factors, including projected population, job, and income growth, as well as incentives, government integrity, and poverty rates.

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