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Hilton has slipped from the top of Fortune’s annual ranking of the 100 Best Companies to Work For, landing at No. 2 after holding first place in both 2024 and 2025.
The hospitality company, headquartered in Tysons since 2009, finished behind Synchrony, a financial services firm based in Stamford, Connecticut, on the 2026 list released April 1.
Fortune and research firm Great Place to Work compiled the rankings using anonymous survey responses from more than 7.3 million workers. Employees evaluated workplace qualities including trust, innovation and support from company leadership.
Synchrony had steadily climbed the list and placed second behind Hilton last year. Its rise to No. 1 was attributed partly to strong employee morale and workers’ sense that company leaders encourage them to bring their individual perspectives and motivations to their jobs.
Hilton employees also reported feeling supported by company leadership. One LGBTQ+ worker said Hilton provided a welcoming environment before such acceptance was widespread, helping the employee build confidence, advance professionally and enjoy life outside work.
Hilton has now appeared on the list for 11 consecutive years. It rose from No. 56 in 2016 and has secured a top-three position every year since 2019.
In marking its second-place finish, Hilton emphasized its training and mentorship initiatives. The company’s LAUNCH program, now in its third year, gives people entering the hospitality industry paid experience in hotel operations, including work at the corporate office.
Some employees can also access tuition-free educational opportunities, from English-language instruction to certificate programs connected with college degrees.
Hilton President and CEO Chris Nassetta said employees are central to the company’s hospitality and to its appeal as both a place to stay and a place to build a career.
Three other Fairfax County-based organizations made the 2026 list: Capital One in Tysons ranked No. 33, Modern Technology Solutions in Lincolnia placed No. 76, and Navy Federal Credit Union in Vienna finished No. 82.