Virginia has proven once again that it can attract big business to the commonwealth.
Gov. Tim Kaine announced on Thursday that technology and defense giant Science Applications International Corporation is moving its corporate headquarters from San Diego, Calif. to McLean.
The company is expected to invest $25 million to facilitate the move.
SAIC already has a major presence in Virginia.
“As one of the largest employers in Northern Virginia, SAIC already has a significant, positive impact on communities in the Commonwealth,” Kaine said.
SAIC employs about 17,500 people in the metro area.
The headquarters move is expected to generate 1,200 new jobs over the next three years.
SAIC cited quality of life, an educated work force, and proximity to the federal government as reasons for the move.
The building of the Silver Line Metro near McLean also influenced the move.
Business experts say the new jobs should be high paying.
“By expanding its investment in McLean, SAIC not only joins a growing list of Fortune 500 companies who call the Commonwealth home -- it confirms Virginia’s status as the 'Best State for Business in America,' ” Kaine said.
Forbes.com anointed Virginia as the best state to do business in a report released on Thursday.
This is the fourth straight year Virginia has topped Forbes' ranking.
Researchers looked at a number of factors such as business costs, quality of life, and growth prospects.
Earlier this year, CNBC also ranked Virginia as the top state for business.
