Even in the face of economic uncertainty, geopolitical tensions, and rapid technological disruption, the management consulting sector has not just endured—it’s thriving. According to a recent report by the Business Research Company, the global management consulting market is set to hit more than $1.07 trillion in 2025, a notable rise from over $1.02 trillion in 2024. The outlook remains strong, with projections estimating a further leap to $1.33 trillion by 2029.
Zooming into the U.S. market, the consulting sector alone is valued at over $404 billion, as reported by IBISWorld. However, with nearly 955,000 consulting firms operating in the U.S., finding the right partner can be a daunting task for company leaders seeking strategic guidance.
Forbes’ 2025 Rankings Provide Clarity
To help simplify the decision-making process, Forbes has released its tenth annual list of America’s Best Management Consulting Firms. The list is designed to spotlight firms that consistently deliver excellence and earn the highest levels of trust across industries and service areas.
This year’s rankings are based on two detailed surveys conducted by Statista between mid-November 2024 and mid-January 2025. The first was a peer-to-peer survey involving over 1,200 partners and executives from consulting firms. The second surveyed more than 1,150 clients who had worked with consulting firms in the past four years.
A Deep-Dive Into Methodology
Participants in both groups evaluated firms across 33 different categories, divided between 16 industries (like IT, insurance, energy, and environment) and 17 functional areas (such as artificial intelligence, finance and risk management, and supply chain management).
To ensure a balanced and thorough evaluation, survey responses were analyzed using a scoring model that included input from both 2025 and 2024. Recommendations from consulting peers were given more weight than client reviews, and current-year feedback was prioritized over past-year input.
Based on the combined scores, consulting firms received star ratings as follows:
- Five stars – “Very frequently recommended”
- Four stars – “Frequently recommended”
- Three stars – “Recommended”
Recognizing the Standouts
The final list features 191 consulting firms, collectively earning 913 awards across all categories. These firms have stood out as leaders in their respective fields, receiving high praise for their specialized expertise, innovative approaches, and ability to solve complex problems for clients across sectors.
As the consulting industry continues its upward trajectory, this Forbes list serves as a vital guide for businesses navigating an increasingly complex landscape—pointing them to firms that not only deliver value but are trusted by both peers and clients alike.
