Jacksonville, FL, February 11, 2026
Several Florida companies have been recognized in Forbes’ 2026 ‘America’s Best Large Employers’ ranking, highlighting their commitment to employee satisfaction and positive workplace culture. This recognition reflects a broader trend in Florida where businesses prioritize workforce well-being. Honored companies include Sarasota Memorial Health Care System, Travel + Leisure Co., Publix Super Markets, and others, demonstrating the link between employee satisfaction and overall business success.
Florida Companies Shine on Forbes’ ‘America’s Best Large Employers’ List
Highlighting Employee Satisfaction and Workplace Culture
Jacksonville, FL – Several Florida-based companies have been recognized in Forbes’ 2026 ‘America’s Best Large Employers’ ranking, showcasing their unwavering commitment to employee satisfaction and a positive workplace culture. This acknowledgment not only uplifts these organizations but also reflects a broader trend in Florida’s business climate, where companies prioritize the well-being of their workforce.
In an era where employee satisfaction can drive productivity and innovation, the companies honored in this ranking emphasize how a focus on workplace culture not only benefits their staff but also contributes to their overall success. By fostering environments that promote growth and stability, these businesses exemplify how treating employees well can lead to sustained economic growth and community engagement.
Sarasota Memorial Health Care System
Sarasota Memorial Health Care System, with nearly 11,000 staff members, stands out as the region’s largest employer and is honored in this year’s list. This recognition highlights their dedication to creating a sustainable and supportive workplace environment.
Travel + Leisure Co.
Travel + Leisure Co., a significant player in the vacation ownership and membership travel market, boasts a global workforce of 19,000 and has secured its spot in the Forbes ranking for the third consecutive year. Their consistent commitment to employee well-being underscores the importance of a positive company culture in the hospitality industry.
Publix Super Markets
Publix Super Markets, headquartered in Lakeland, continues to shine on the Forbes list, securing high rankings consistently over the years. Ranked No. 168 overall in 2022 and No. 7 in the retail and wholesale sector, Publix exemplifies how a stable work environment leads to strong employee loyalty and satisfaction.
CSX Corporation
CSX Corporation, a vital transportation entity, was recognized as one of Florida’s premier employers, earning a No. 29 ranking in the state on Forbes’ 2025 list of America’s Best-In-State Employers. Their focus on workforce engagement reflects positively on their operational effectiveness.
OUC – The Reliable One
OUC – The Reliable One, a municipal utility in Orlando, earned a spot at No. 60 among Florida employers on the Forbes ‘America’s Best Employers by State’ list. Being the top-ranked utility underscores their commitment to fostering a workplace that prioritizes employee welfare.
Velera
Velera, a credit union service organization, was celebrated in Forbes’ ‘America’s Best Midsize Employers 2026’ list for the fourth consecutive year, ranking seventh in the Banking and Financial Services sector. Their recognition highlights the significance of employee-centric policies in achieving superior workplace results.
Lee Health
Lee Health, a comprehensive health system in Southwest Florida, continued its positive trajectory by making it onto Forbes’ ‘America’s Best-in-State Employers’ list for the second year in a row in 2024. This acknowledgment showcases their commitment to a constructive and empowering work environment.
Tampa General Hospital
Tampa General Hospital, known for its excellence as an academic health system, marked its third consecutive appearance among Florida’s top 25 employers in Forbes’ ‘America’s Best-in-State Employers’ rankings for 2023. Their focus on employee satisfaction directly correlates to patient care quality and operational success.
About the Ranking
The ‘America’s Best Large Employers’ list is compiled through a partnership between Forbes and market research firm Statista. The ranking uses anonymous employee surveys to gauge workplace safety, professional development, company culture, and more. To qualify, companies must employ at least 5,000 staff members.
FAQ
What is the ‘America’s Best Large Employers’ list?
The ‘America’s Best Large Employers’ list is an annual ranking compiled by Forbes in partnership with Statista, evaluating companies based on anonymous employee surveys that assess factors like workplace safety, professional development, and company culture. To be eligible, employers must have at least 5,000 employees.
Which Florida companies were recognized in the 2026 ranking?
Florida companies recognized in the 2026 ‘America’s Best Large Employers’ ranking include Sarasota Memorial Health Care System, Travel + Leisure Co., Publix Super Markets, CSX Corporation, OUC – The Reliable One, Velera, Lee Health, and Tampa General Hospital.
How are companies selected for this ranking?
Companies are selected based on anonymous employee surveys that evaluate factors such as workplace safety, professional development, and company culture. Eligible employers must have at least 5,000 employees.
What criteria are used to evaluate employers?
Employers are evaluated based on factors like workplace safety, professional development opportunities, company culture, compensation packages, work flexibility, training opportunities, and leadership programs.
Is this ranking specific to Florida?
No, the ‘America’s Best Large Employers’ list is a national ranking. However, there is also a state-specific ranking called ‘America’s Best-in-State Employers,’ which highlights top employers in each state, including Florida.
Key Features of the Article
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Recognition of Florida Companies | Several Florida-based companies were honored in Forbes’ 2026 ‘America’s Best Large Employers’ ranking, highlighting their commitment to employee satisfaction and workplace culture. |
| About the Ranking | The ranking evaluates companies based on anonymous employee surveys assessing factors like workplace safety, professional development, and company culture. Eligible employers must have at least 5,000 employees. |
| FAQ Section | A FAQ section provides additional information about the ranking, selection criteria, and specific Florida companies recognized. |
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Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.

