Average IQ by State in the US for 2024

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The average IQ in the United States is approximately 98, based on the most recent data from MedicineNet.

IQ tests are designed with a standard average score of 100, so a slight variation is normal.

According to data, the average IQ among U.S. males is slightly higher than that of females, with males scoring an average of 99 and females scoring 97.

Encouragingly, the average IQ in the U.S. has been steadily increasing over time.

This improvement is linked to factors such as enhanced education, better healthcare, and improved nutrition.

These trends emphasize the importance of investing in education and ensuring equal opportunities for everyone.

Key Takeaways

  • The average IQ in the U.S. is approximately 98, with males scoring slightly higher (99) than females (97).
  • Massachusetts leads with the highest average IQ of 104.3, while Mississippi ranks lowest at 94.2.
  • IQ typically peaks during late adolescence (108 at 16-17 years) and increases slightly in older age (119 at 70-74 years).
  • Global IQ comparisons show Singapore (108) and Japan (106) at the top, while the U.S. averages 98.
  • IQ correlates with education, healthcare, and socio-economic factors but doesnโ€™t fully predict real-world success.
  • Emotional intelligence, creativity, and adaptability are critical for success, complementing cognitive skills measured by IQ.

Average IQ by State in the United States

Rank State Average IQ
1 Massachusetts 104.3
2 New Hampshire 104.2
3 North Dakota 103.8
4 Vermont 103.8
5 Minnesota 103.7
6 Maine 103.4
7 Montana 103.4
8 Iowa 103.2
9 Connecticut 103.1
10 Wisconsin 102.9
11 Kansas 102.8
12 New Jersey 102.8
13 South Dakota 102.8
14 Wyoming 102.4
15 Nebraska 102.3
16 Virginia 101.9
17 Washington 101.9
18 Ohio 101.8
19 Indiana 101.7
20 Colorado 101.6
21 Pennsylvania 101.5
22 Idaho 101.4
23 Oregon 101.2
24 Utah 101.1
25 Missouri 101
26 New York 100.7
27 Michigan 100.5
28 Delaware 100.4
29 North Carolina 100.2
30 Texas 100
31 Illinois 99.9
32 Maryland 99.7
33 Rhode Island 99.5
34 Kentucky 99.4
35 Oklahoma 99.3
36 Alaska 99
37 West Virginia 98.7
38 Florida 98.4
39 South Carolina 98.4
40 Georgia 98
41 Tennessee 97.7
42 Arkansas 97.5
43 Arizona 97.4
44 Nevada 96.5
45 Alabama 95.7
46 New Mexico 95.7
47 Hawaii 95.6
48 California 95.5
49 Louisiana 95.3
50 Mississippi 94.2

The ranking of average IQ by state reveals distinct regional and socioeconomic trends.

States like Massachusetts and New Hampshire, known for strong education systems and widespread access to quality healthcare, rank the highest, while states such as Mississippi and Louisiana, which face challenges like underfunded schools and higher poverty rates, rank at the bottom according to the data from DataPandas.

Interestingly, many rural states with smaller populations, such as North Dakota and Vermont, perform better than larger, more urbanized states like California and Texas, likely due to better student-to-teacher ratios and a focus on community-driven education.

These patterns highlight the significant influence of state policies and resource allocation on cognitive development. States with higher average IQs often invest in early childhood education, teacher training, and access to healthcare and nutrition programs, ensuring a strong foundation for intellectual growth. In contrast, lower-ranking states frequently contend with systemic issues such as economic inequality and inadequate public services, which hinder their ability to improve outcomes for students.

Addressing these disparities will require targeted efforts to improve equity in education funding, expand access to healthcare, and implement robust nutrition programs, particularly in underserved areas. Such changes can help bridge the cognitive gaps across states and provide more equal opportunities for all individuals to reach their intellectual potential.

Average IQ Scores by Age

Average IQ Scores By Age In The US Chart
Average IQ scores by age

The average IQ score varies with age, typically peaking during late adolescence and gradually increasing again in later years according to the NCBI studies.

For example, the average IQ is 108 for those aged 16-17 but reaches 119 for individuals aged 70-74.

This pattern suggests that life experience and cognitive maturity influence IQ in different age groups.

IQ Scores and Intelligence Levels

IQ Scores Intelligence Level
Between 110 and 119 Superior intelligence or above-average
Between 120 and 140 Superintelligence or gifted
Over 140 Genius or nearly genius
Between 80 and 89 Indicates dullness or lower average
Below 70 Definite low intelligence or “feeble-mindedness”

IQ scores are categorized to indicate various levels of intelligence.

A score between 110-119 reflects above-average intelligence, while 120-140 represents giftedness.

Scores over 140 classify individuals as geniuses, with only about 2% of the population reaching above 130 as per this research notes.

Scores below 70 indicate significantly lower intellectual abilities.

Some historical figures, such as Albert Einstein and Ada Lovelace, were estimated to have IQs of around 160, while rare outliers, such as Terence Tao (IQ 230), are considered mathematical and intellectual prodigies.

The Average IQ

 

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An average IQ score is 100, represents typical intelligence for a given age group. IQ scores are calculated based on statistical comparisons to peers of the same age.

Importantly, IQ is not an isolated metric but reflects how an individualโ€™s abilities relate to those of others.

The Evolution of Testing

The concept of IQ testing began in the late 1800s, with Alfred Binet creating the first intelligence test in 1905.

William Stern later refined the methodology, introducing the term “intelligence quotient.”

Over time, tests have evolved to measure not only cognitive skills but also practical, social, and emotional intelligence.

Despite advancements, critics argue that IQ tests remain limited in capturing the full spectrum of human intelligence.

Applications of IQ Testing


IQ tests serve multiple purposes, including:

  • Evaluating cognitive abilities like memory, problem-solving, and processing speed.
  • Assessing eligibility for jobs and educational programs.
  • Diagnosing intellectual disabilities.
  • Supporting psychological research.

Factors Influencing IQ

Several factors can affect IQ, including genetics, environment, health, education, and even musical training.

IQ typically increases with age but may decline in older adulthood. Cultural practices and brain anatomy also play roles in shaping an individualโ€™s IQ.

Case Studies and Real-Life Examples


High IQ individuals have contributed significantly to their fields, while others with average or below-average IQs have demonstrated success through creativity, perseverance, and other qualities according to the Verywell Mind.

Here are some notable examples:

Name IQ Score Contribution
Albert Einstein 160-180 Revolutionized physics with the theory of relativity.
Terence Tao 211-230 Advanced mathematics in number theory and harmonic analysis.
Ada Lovelace Estimated 170 Pioneered computer programming as the first programmer.

In contrast, individuals with average or below-average IQs show that intelligence alone does not define success:

Name IQ Score Achievement
Richard Feynman 125 Nobel Prize-winning physicist known for quantum mechanics.
Muhammad Ali 78 World boxing champion, renowned for his strategic thinking and charisma.

These examples highlight the multifaceted nature of intelligence, where qualities like creativity, determination, and emotional intelligence also play crucial roles.

IQ Beyond Academics

The Image Shows a Highly Detailed, Glowing Illustration of A Human Brain
Steve Jobs leveraged creativity to transform industries with innovation

IQ measures cognitive skills like reasoning and memory, but life success involves more dimensions.

Key additional intelligence includes:

Type of Intelligence Description Examples of Professions
Emotional Intelligence (EQ) Ability to manage emotions and empathize with others. Counseling, Leadership, Social Work
Practical Intelligence Solving real-world problems effectively. Entrepreneurs, Tradespeople
Creativity Innovating and generating new ideas. Artists, Engineers, Scientists

For example, leaders like Steve Jobs leveraged creativity more than traditional cognitive skills, reshaping industries with innovative products as noted in HBR.

While IQ correlates moderately with academic performance, other factors, such as adaptability and emotional resilience, are better predictors of career and personal achievements.

Global Comparisons of IQ

Global Comparisons of IQ Chart
Global comparisons of IQ

Average IQ varies significantly worldwide due to educational quality, healthcare, and socio-economic factors. Below is a table comparing the U.S. to other countries:

Cultural and Environmental Impacts

  • Education: Countries with well-funded schools and rigorous curricula produce higher IQ averages according to the NCBI.
  • Healthcare: Access to good nutrition and prenatal care contributes to brain development.
  • Environment: Stable, enriching environments foster better cognitive outcomes.

Statistics and Visual Insights

Based on data, IQ changes across the lifespan:

Average IQ By Age Group Chart
Average IQ by age group

The data suggests that IQ peaks in adolescence and increases slightly in later life due to accumulated knowledge and experience.

Global Distributions

Hereโ€™s a simple representation of global IQ averages:

  • Above 105: Singapore, Japan
  • 90-105: Most European countries, United States
  • Below 90: Developing nations with limited access to education and healthcare.

Limitations and Misconceptions

While IQ tests measure certain intellectual abilities, they do not encompass all aspects of intelligence, such as creativity, emotional intelligence, or common sense.

High IQ scores do not guarantee success, especially in stressful or practical scenarios.

Furthermore, reliance on IQ scores can lead to biases and societal prejudice.

Intelligence is multifaceted, and qualities like adaptability, emotional health, and judgment extend beyond what IQ can measure.

FAQs

How does the average IQ of men and women compare?
There is no significant difference in average IQ between men and women, contrary to historical misconceptions. While women tend to cluster around average IQ scores, men are more likely to score at both the higher and lower extremes. Societal influences, such as patriarchal norms, contribute to men often overestimating their intelligence and women underestimating theirs. In the U.S., the average IQ is 98, with men averaging 99 and women 97.
How often does the average IQ change over time?
An individualโ€™s IQ remains generally stable throughout life, although knowledge and cognitive abilities can improve with age, peaking between 20 and 50 years before declining. However, the population’s average IQ has steadily increased globally, a phenomenon known as the Flynn Effect, attributed to advancements in education, nutrition, and access to information.
Is the average IQ different in various countries?
Yes, IQ varies between nations, often reflecting levels of education and development. In 2019, Japan had the highest average IQ (106.48), followed by Taiwan and Singapore. The U.S. ranked 31st with an average IQ of 97 but topped the Intelligence Capital Index (ICI), a measure of a country’s ability to capitalize on its knowledge base, due to its environment for education and creativity.
What IQ range indicates intellectual disability?

IQ scores below 70 are classified as intellectual disabilities:

  • 71-84: Borderline intellectual functioning
  • 50-70: Mild intellectual disability
  • 35-50: Moderate intellectual disability
  • 20-35: Severe intellectual disability
  • Below 20: Profound intellectual disability
How can someone improve their IQ?

While IQ is largely innate, scores can be enhanced through practice and knowledge acquisition. Ways to improve include:

  • Learning new skills, such as music or sports.
  • Engaging in puzzles, word games, and brain exercises.
  • Expanding knowledge through reading and learning new languages.
  • Developing verbal skills and maintaining overall health with balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and sufficient sleep.

Methodology

  1. Researched authoritative sources like MedicineNet, Bright Futures, and NCBI for accurate IQ statistics.
  2. Analyzed state-level IQ data to identify regional and socio-economic trends.
  3. Cross-referenced global IQ scores to provide a comparative perspective.
  4. Included historical context and case studies of individuals with varying IQ levels.
  5. Highlighted critiques and limitations of IQ testing as a measure of intelligence.
  6. Structured the article with visuals, tables, and actionable insights for clarity and engagement.

References

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