Average IQ in the United States: 2026 Data, State Rankings & Analysis
The United States has one of the most studied populations in the world when it comes to cognitive research. Here's a comprehensive look at average IQ in America — the national figure, state-by-state variation, global comparison, and what it all actually means.
What Is the Average IQ in the United States?
US Average IQ
~98
World Average
~100
Global Rank
~24th
Population
335M+
The United States has an average IQ of approximately 97–98, placing it slightly below the international reference point of 100 but well above the global average when all countries are included. The US ranks around 24th globally — solidly in the upper tier of developed nations.
US IQ Compared to Other Countries
| Country | Average IQ | Region |
|---|---|---|
| Singapore | ~108 | East Asia |
| Japan | ~105 | East Asia |
| South Korea | ~106 | East Asia |
| Finland | ~101 | Europe |
| Germany | ~99 | Europe |
| United Kingdom | ~100 | Europe |
| Canada | ~99 | North America |
| United States | ~97–98 | North America |
| France | ~98 | Europe |
| Australia | ~99 | Oceania |
| Argentina | ~93 | South America |
| Brazil | ~84–87 | South America |
Average IQ by State (United States)
IQ scores vary significantly across US states, correlating strongly with education spending, income levels, and access to resources:
🏆 Highest IQ States
📊 Lower IQ States
Important Context on State Rankings
State IQ differences reflect education funding, income inequality, and access to resources — not inherent differences in cognitive potential. States with higher education spending and lower poverty rates consistently score higher. These are policy outcomes, not fixed characteristics.
IQ Distribution in the United States
Like all countries, the US follows a normal distribution (bell curve) centered around its average:
| IQ Range | Classification | % of US Population | Approx. # of Americans |
|---|---|---|---|
| 130+ | Gifted / Very Superior | ~2% | ~6.7 million |
| 120–129 | Superior | ~7% | ~23 million |
| 110–119 | Above Average | ~16% | ~54 million |
| 90–109 | Average | ~50% | ~168 million |
| 80–89 | Low Average | ~16% | ~54 million |
| 70–79 | Borderline | ~7% | ~23 million |
| Below 70 | Extremely Low | ~2% | ~6.7 million |
Factors Behind the US Average IQ
Education system quality
The US has world-class universities but significant inequality in K-12 education. Public school quality varies enormously by zip code, creating large cognitive development gaps between socioeconomic groups.
Immigration and demographic diversity
The US is one of the most diverse nations on Earth. Immigrants from countries with lower average IQs can temporarily lower the national average, while highly educated immigrants raise it. The net effect is complex.
Income inequality
The US has one of the highest Gini coefficients among developed nations. High inequality means that environmental advantages (nutrition, stimulation, quality schools) are concentrated in a smaller portion of the population.
Healthcare access
Unlike most developed nations, the US lacks universal healthcare. Disparities in prenatal care, nutrition programs, and treatment of conditions affecting cognitive development contribute to IQ variation.
The Flynn Effect plateau
The US experienced strong IQ gains throughout the 20th century (Flynn Effect). However, research suggests this trend has slowed or plateaued since the 1990s, possibly due to changes in education, diet, and screen time.
US IQ Trends Over Time
American IQ scores have changed significantly over the past century:
- 1900–1990: Steady IQ gains of ~3 points per decade (Flynn Effect) — driven by better nutrition, education, and healthcare
- 1990–2010: Gains slowed significantly in most developed states
- 2010–present: Some studies suggest a slight decline in certain cognitive measures, particularly in younger generations
- Ongoing: Significant variation by state, with high-investment states continuing to improve
What the US Average IQ Means for You Personally
The national average of ~98 doesn't predict your individual score — millions of Americans score 120, 130, or higher
Your IQ reflects your specific environment, education, and opportunities — not your nationality
The US produces more Nobel laureates, patents, and scientific publications than any other country
IQ is one dimension of intelligence — emotional intelligence, creativity, and practical skills matter equally
Your score can improve with education, cognitive training, exercise, and healthy lifestyle habits
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average IQ in the United States?
The average IQ in the United States is approximately 97–98, placing it slightly below the international reference point of 100 but well above the global average. The US ranks around 24th globally.
Which US state has the highest average IQ?
Massachusetts consistently ranks highest, with an estimated average IQ of ~104. New Hampshire, North Dakota, and Vermont also rank near the top. These states have high education spending and low poverty rates.
Which US state has the lowest average IQ?
Mississippi typically ranks lowest, with an estimated average IQ of ~94. This correlates with lower education funding, higher poverty rates, and less access to cognitive development resources.
Why is the US average IQ below 100?
The 100 reference point is based on international normalization. The US scores slightly below due to income inequality, variable education quality, and demographic diversity. The US still ranks in the top 25% of all countries globally.
How does the US compare to other English-speaking countries?
The US (98) is similar to Canada (99), Australia (99), and the UK (100). New Zealand scores around 99. All English-speaking developed nations cluster in the 97–101 range.
Find Out Your Personal IQ Score
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