Ever wondered how stupid – or smart – your state is compared to the rest of the country? Here’s some intriguing data that ranks states based on their average IQ scores. But before we dive in, let’s remember that intelligence is a complex concept that can’t be fully captured by a single number. That said, these figures do provide some interesting data.
America’s Smartest States
Let’s start with the good news. The honor of being the smartest state in the nation goes to… drumroll, please… New Hampshire! With an average IQ score of 103.2, the Granite State is living up to its “Live Free or Die” motto by freely embracing its intellectual prowess.
Hot on New Hampshire’s heels are:
- Massachusetts (103.1)
- Minnesota (102.9)
- Vermont (102.2)
It seems the Northeast and upper Midwest are giving the rest of the country a run for its money in the brains department. Maybe it’s all that maple syrup?
States With Average Intelligence Across America
The national average IQ score comes in at a respectable 99.6. States hovering around this mark include Michigan (99.6), Missouri (99.5), and North Carolina (99.5). So, if you’re from one of these states, congratulations – you’re statistically average! (But we know you’re special in your own way.)
The Dumbest States In America
Now, for the part you’ve all been waiting for – the states that might want to hit the books a little harder. Coming in at the bottom of our list is New Mexico, with an average IQ score of 95. Following closely behind are:
- Louisiana (95.2)
- Mississippi (95.8)
- Alabama (96.4)
It’s worth noting that these scores are still within the range of average intelligence. So, no need to panic if you’re from one of these states – you’re not living in a real-life “Idiocracy” just yet!
What Does It All Mean? (Spoiler: It’s Complicated)
Before you pack up and move to New Hampshire in search of intellectual stimulation, it’s crucial to understand that these test scores don’t tell the whole story. Intelligence is influenced by a myriad of factors, including education systems, socioeconomic conditions, and even cultural biases in testing methods.
Moreover, a state’s average IQ score doesn’t define the individuals living there. Every state has its share of geniuses and, well, let’s say “intellectually challenged” folks. So, whether you’re from the top of the list or the bottom, remember – you’re more than just a number!
The Takeaway: A Call for Educational Investment
While it’s fun to compare states and crack jokes about who’s the smartest, these rankings should serve as a wake-up call. The disparities in average intelligence scores across states highlight the need for continued investment in education and cognitive development programs nationwide.
So, the next time someone asks you, “How stupid is your state?” you can confidently rattle off these stats. Just remember to follow up with a thoughtful discussion about the complexities of intelligence and the importance of nurturing cognitive growth across the nation. Who knows? You might just raise the average IQ of your state by having that conversation!
US States Listed By Average IQ
STATE | Average IQ Score | |
---|---|---|
New Hampshire | 103.2 | |
Massachusetts | 103.1 | |
Minnesota | 102.9 | |
Vermont | 102.2 | |
North Dakota | 101.7 | |
Wyoming | 101.7 | |
Utah | 101.5 | |
Washington | 101.5 | |
Connecticut | 101.2 | |
Nebraska | 101.2 | |
Virginia | 101.2 | |
Wisconsin | 101.2 | |
Colorado | 101.1 | |
Iowa | 101.1 | |
Montana | 101.1 | |
New Jersey | 101 | |
Maine | 100.9 | |
South Dakota | 100.7 | |
Indiana | 100.6 | |
Idaho | 100.5 | |
Kansas | 100.5 | |
Oregon | 100.3 | |
Pennsylvania | 100.2 | |
Maryland | 100 | |
Ohio | 100 | |
Michigan | 99.6 | |
Missouri | 99.5 | |
North Carolina | 99.5 | |
Alaska | 99.4 | |
Illinois | 99.4 | |
Rhode Island | 99.4 | |
Hawaii | 99.2 | |
Florida | 98.8 | |
Kentucky | 98.8 | |
Delaware | 98.7 | |
New York | 98.4 | |
Arizona | 98.3 | |
Tennessee | 98.3 | |
Oklahoma | 98.2 | |
Georgia | 98.1 | |
South Carolina | 97.8 | |
Texas | 97.4 | |
West Virginia | 97.2 | |
Arkansas | 97.1 | |
California | 97.1 | |
Nevada | 96.6 | |
Alabama | 96.4 | |
Mississippi | 95.8 | |
Louisiana | 95.2 | |
New Mexico | 95 | |
United States (AVG) | 99.59599999999996 |
Frank Wilson is a retired teacher with over 30 years of combined experience in the education, small business technology, and real estate business. He now blogs as a hobby and spends most days tinkering with old computers. Wilson is passionate about tech, enjoys fishing, and loves drinking beer.
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