Massachusetts is first—again—in the Milken Institute's State Technology and Science Index 2016. The index tracks and evaluates every state's tech and science capabilities and success at converting these assets into companies and high-paying jobs, which naturally also means demand for office and lab space. Conducted every two years, the index has scored the Bay State first in every edition since it launched in 2002.

With a score of 83.7, which is more than three points ahead of its nearest competitor (Colorado), Massachusetts' university and private sector research assets are fertile breeding grounds for tech innovation. The showing underscores recent anecdotal evidence, such as GE's decision to move its HQ to Boston, that the state is an innovation magnet.

Calculating and evaluating 107 individual indicators, the State Tech and Science Index provides a benchmark for states to assess their science and technology capabilities, as well as the broader ecosystem that contributes to job and wealth creation, according to the LA-based Milken Institute. Rounding out the top five states are Maryland, California and Washington state.