Average IQ in Mississippi: 2026 Data, Rankings & Analysis
Quick answer — Mississippi
Estimated average IQ in Mississippi: ~94.2 (national rank #50 of 50). Population ~2.9M; capital Jackson. Lowest estimated average aligns with highest child poverty and lowest per-pupil spending—policy gaps, not fixed ability.
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Mississippi's estimated average IQ of 94.2 places it at rank #50 among US states in the South region. Figures reflect education investment and poverty — not individual potential.
Mississippi data snapshot
Population (approx.)
2.9 million
Child poverty proxy
~21.8%
K-12 spend rank (proxy)
#50 of 50
Mississippi Avg IQ
~94.2
US Average
~98
National Rank
#50
vs US Avg
-3.8 pts
Mississippi vs neighboring and peer states
Important context
State IQ averages reflect policy and economics — not genetics. Lowest estimated average aligns with highest child poverty and lowest per-pupil spending—policy gaps, not fixed ability.
Mississippi in the national rankings
| State | Avg IQ | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | 104.3 | #1 |
| New Hampshire | 104.2 | #2 |
| Mississippi | 94.2 | #50 |
| Louisiana | 95.3 | #49 |
Factors behind Mississippi's score
Education investment
Mississippi K-12 spending ranks near #50 nationally in our proxy model — strongly correlated with average IQ estimates.
Poverty & inequality
Child poverty proxy ~21.8% in Mississippi affects nutrition, stress, and school readiness in early childhood.
South labor market
The South economy shapes migration of college graduates in and out of Jackson metro areas versus rural counties.
Urban vs rural mix
Mississippi's mix of metros and rural districts creates wider within-state IQ variance than a single statewide number suggests.
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Frequently asked questions — Mississippi
What is the average IQ in Mississippi?
The estimated average IQ in Mississippi is approximately 94.2, placing it at rank #50 among US states. This is below the US average of ~98 and reflects systemic factors including education funding, poverty rates, and access to resources — not inherent differences in cognitive potential.
Why does Mississippi rank lower in average IQ?
Mississippi's ranking reflects environmental factors: education spending per pupil (approximate rank #50), poverty (~21.8% child poverty proxy), and urban/rural opportunity. Lowest estimated average aligns with highest child poverty and lowest per-pupil spending—policy gaps, not fixed ability.
Is the IQ data for Mississippi accurate?
State IQ estimates are based on multiple studies and correlate with educational achievement data. Capital Jackson and a population of ~2.9M shape labor markets and school systems. Individual variation within Mississippi remains enormous.
How does Mississippi's IQ compare to the US average?
Mississippi's estimated average IQ of 94.2 is approximately 3.8 points below the US average of 98.
Can I score above average even if I'm from Mississippi?
Absolutely. State averages are population statistics — they say nothing about individual potential. Your IQ reflects your specific education, environment, and opportunities, not your state of residence.
How does Mississippi compare to neighboring states on average IQ?
Mississippi (≈94.2) ranks #50 nationally. Compare with Louisiana and Louisiana in the full table on our Average IQ by State hub.
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