The U.S. economy accelerated by 1.4 percent in the first quarter of 2024, according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis.But in a country as diverse as America, the economy performs differently in different states. Thirty-nine states and the District of Columbia saw their economy expand to begin the year.Idaho led the nation with a 5 percent annual rate of expansion of gross domestic product . The state's economy has been characterized by low unemployment that outpaces the national rate.
Recent data shows that the economy in the state is driven by retail, information services and construction. The state boasts that its balanced budget approach to fiscal policy, low taxes and a business-friendly regulatory environment were behind its economic success, according to Idaho's Department of Commerce.Nevada followed, expanding by 4.4 percent in the first quarter, demonstrating a recovery from the hurt of the pandemic recession.