What Is The Average American IQ? 2026 Updated

Where does the United States rank on the global IQ scale? IQ, or Intelligence Quotient, often sparks curiosity and debate across education, science, and society.

This section explains the average IQ in America, how it compares with other countries, and which U.S. state ranks highest. The goal stays simple: clear numbers, plain meaning, and easy context without confusion.

What Is The Average IQ In The United States?

Visualise the average IQ scores across U.S. states with this IQ distribution chart, with a colour gradient ranging from 94.0 to 104.0.

Massachusetts stands as the smartest state among all, with an average IQ of 104, followed by New Hampshire with an IQ of 103.2, and North Dakota (103.1).

States like New Mexico (94.2), Mississippi (94.3), and Louisiana (95.3) fall on the lower end.

Isn’t it a fascinating snapshot of intelligence distribution in the United States?

Quick Fact: In the world the USA ranks 29th position. Guess who is at the top? It’s Japan with an average IQ score of 106.48, while Nepal is at the bottom with a 42.99 IQ score. 

Average IQ Score In The USA By States

Now let’s look at in-depth which state ranks superior to others, as the U.S. has 50 states, and each state has its own IQ average.

What Are The Top 10 US States With Higher IQ Scores?

Here are the top 10 U.S. states with the highest average IQ scores:

Rank	State	Average IQ
1	Massachusetts	104.0
2	New Hampshire	103.2
3	North Dakota	103.1
4	Minnesota	102.9
5	Vermont	102.2
6	Maine	101.9
7	Montana	101.8
8	Iowa	101.7
9	Connecticut	101.6
10	Wisconsin	101.2

These states often excel in cognitive ability and education; they are known for strong public schools.

Top 10 US States With Lower IQ Scores

These states have the lowest IQ in the U.S.

Rank	State	Average IQ
50	New Mexico	94.2
49	Mississippi	94.3
48	Louisiana	95.3
47	Hawaii	95.6
46	Nevada	95.7
45	Alabama	95.9
44	Texas	96.1
43	South Carolina	96.3
42	Arizona	96.5
41	Arkansas	96.7

I have gathered all this data from the World Population Review, so if you want, you can re-check it by yourself.

How Does America Compare Globally?

When compared internationally, the U.S. ranks slightly below countries like Japan (106), South Korea (106), and Singapore (107), which top the charts.

Here’s a quick snapshot:

Country	Average IQ
Singapore	107
South Korea	106
Japan	105
United States	98
India	82
Sub-Saharan Africa	70-80

This ranking doesn’t mean Americans are “less intelligent.” It’s important to consider cultural differences, education systems, and socioeconomic factors that influence IQ scores.

What Are The Factors Influencing IQ In America?

Several key factors cause the variations in IQ scores across the U.S.:

1. Genetics: Some smarts come from your parents! Scientists say about 50-80% of IQ comes from genes, but don’t worry, your brain isn’t stuck that way. Learning new things can still make you sharper!
2. Money Matters (Socioeconomic Status): Richer families usually have better schools, tutors, and books; that’s why kids from wealthier homes often score higher on IQ tests. It’s like getting extra training for a brain race!
3. Education: School isn’t just about homework; it grows your brain! Studies show that more years in school = higher IQ. Missing school? It is like skipping gym, but for your brain, it gets weaker.
4. Food for Thought (Nutrition): Brain LOVES healthy food! It needs nutrition; junk food makes it slow, while good stuff like fish, nuts, and veggies help it work better. Fun fact: Kids who eat breakfast score higher on IQ tests!
5. Home & Environment: If you grow up in a loud, stressful, or unsafe place, your brain may struggle to focus. Lead poisoning, pollution, and too much screen time can also make thinking harder, so go play outside!
6. Culture & Language: IQ tests aren’t always fair! If a test asks about skiing but you live in Florida, you might be confused. That’s why some experts say IQ tests favour certain backgrounds more than others.
7. Health & Sleep: Sick a lot? Not getting enough sleep? That can make learning tough. Kids who sleep at least 9 hours a night do better in school. So yeah, bedtime IS important (sorry, night owls!).
8. Love & Support: Hugs, encouragement, and a happy home make a BIG difference. Kids who feel loved and supported tend to do better in school and in life. So yes, kindness actually helps grow brains!

What Is IQ & How Is It Measured?

IQ measures cognitive abilities like problem-solving, logical reasoning, and understanding. It’s not a measure of knowledge but rather the ability to process and analyse information.

The IQ Scale:

• Below 70: Extremely low
• 70-84: Below average
• 85-114: Average range
• 115-129: Above average
• 130 and above: Gifted

IQ tests, like the Stanford-Binet or Wechsler scales, are designed to assign a score, with 100 being the “average.” However, this average can vary slightly across populations and age groups.

Busting IQ Myths

1. IQ Is Not Fixed: While genetics play a role, IQ isn’t set in stone. Cognitive abilities can improve with learning, problem-solving practice, and healthy habits.
2. IQ Is Not a Measure of Worth: IQ scores don’t define a person’s success, creativity, or emotional intelligence. Many brilliant innovators weren’t geniuses on paper—just look at Albert Einstein, whose IQ was estimated at 160, yet struggled in traditional education settings early on.
3. High IQ ≠ Life Success: High IQ doesn’t guarantee success in relationships, careers, or life. Traits like perseverance, adaptability, and emotional intelligence often matter more.

What Does IQ Tell Us About Americans?

The average IQ of 98 in the US tells us a nation with diverse educational and cultural backgrounds. All the data highlights areas for improvement in health and education systems, but also showcases the adaptability of a large, multifaceted population.

Fun fact: Some studies suggest that creativity, a hallmark of American culture, isn’t always captured in IQ tests.

This explains why the U.S. excels in innovation, despite not topping IQ charts.

Improving Cognitive Abilities In The U.S.

While IQ scores aren’t everything, fostering intelligence and cognitive skills can benefit society. Here’s how:

1. Investing in Early Education:
   Programs like Head Start have shown success in boosting cognitive and emotional skills in children.
2. Promoting Lifelong Learning:
   Encouraging adults to take up courses or learn new skills can keep their brains sharp.
3. Focusing on Mental Health:
   Reducing stress and improving mental health can boost problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
4. Accessible Healthcare:
   Ensuring that all Americans have access to proper nutrition and healthcare is vital for cognitive development.

Interestingly, factors like mental clarity can influence cognitive performance. To explore how practices like meditation can impact brain function, check out our article on Meditation Statistics.

If you are seeking peace, personal growth, and inner change, Mindvalley, with a 50% discount, stands out as a smart choice that brings learning, clarity, and self-awareness together in one place.

Final Thoughts: Average American IQ

In conclusion, I hope you get your answer to “What is the average IQ in America?”Which is 98 might not top global rankings, but it tells a story of resilience, diversity, and potential.

Intelligence is more than just a single number; it’s a combination of factors that reflect creativity, adaptability, and the drive to grow.

The US can unlock the full potential of all Americans by investing in education, health, and equal access to resources. This should be done regardless of where they live or their background.

FAQs On Average IQ In America