Average IQ in South Dakota: 2026 Data, Rankings & Analysis
Quick answer — South Dakota
Estimated average IQ in South Dakota: ~102.4 (national rank #11 of 50). Population ~0.9M; capital Pierre. South Dakota's Midwest economy mixes urban services and rural counties—county-level NAEP and graduation rates vary more than the statewide IQ estimate suggests.
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South Dakota's estimated average IQ of 102.4 places it at rank #11 among US states in the Midwest region. Figures reflect education investment and poverty — not individual potential.
South Dakota data snapshot
Population (approx.)
0.9 million
Child poverty proxy
~11.9%
K-12 spend rank (proxy)
#11 of 50
South Dakota Avg IQ
~102.4
US Average
~98
National Rank
#11
vs US Avg
+4.4 pts
South Dakota vs neighboring and peer states
| State | Avg IQ | Rank | Region |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nebraska | 102.5 | #10 | Midwest |
| Wyoming | 102.3 | #12 | West |
| North Dakota | 103.8 | #3 | Midwest |
| Minnesota | 103.7 | #5 | Midwest |
Important context
State IQ averages reflect policy and economics — not genetics. South Dakota's Midwest economy mixes urban services and rural counties—county-level NAEP and graduation rates vary more than the statewide IQ estimate suggests.
South Dakota in the national rankings
| State | Avg IQ | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | 104.3 | #1 |
| New Hampshire | 104.2 | #2 |
| South Dakota | 102.4 | #11 |
| Louisiana | 95.3 | #49 |
| Mississippi | 94.2 | #50 |
Factors behind South Dakota's score
Education investment
South Dakota K-12 spending ranks near #11 nationally in our proxy model — strongly correlated with average IQ estimates.
Poverty & inequality
Child poverty proxy ~11.9% in South Dakota affects nutrition, stress, and school readiness in early childhood.
Midwest labor market
The Midwest economy shapes migration of college graduates in and out of Pierre metro areas versus rural counties.
Urban vs rural mix
South Dakota'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 — South Dakota
What is the average IQ in South Dakota?
The estimated average IQ in South Dakota is approximately 102.4, placing it at rank #11 among US states. This is above 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 South Dakota rank where it does in average IQ?
South Dakota's ranking reflects environmental factors: education spending per pupil (approximate rank #11), poverty (~11.9% child poverty proxy), and urban/rural opportunity. South Dakota's Midwest economy mixes urban services and rural counties—county-level NAEP and graduation rates vary more than the statewide IQ estimate suggests.
Is the IQ data for South Dakota accurate?
State IQ estimates are based on multiple studies and correlate with educational achievement data. Capital Pierre and a population of ~0.9M shape labor markets and school systems. Individual variation within South Dakota remains enormous.
How does South Dakota's IQ compare to the US average?
South Dakota's estimated average IQ of 102.4 is approximately 4.4 points above the US average of 98.
Can I score above average even if I'm from South Dakota?
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 South Dakota compare to neighboring states on average IQ?
South Dakota (≈102.4) ranks #11 nationally. Compare with Nebraska and Wyoming in the full table on our Average IQ by State hub.
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