New York residents have an average intelligence score of 100.7, which is higher than the national average of 98, according to rankings from analytics company Data Pandas. The state ranks 26th in the country for IQ, with Massachusetts claiming the top spot with an average IQ of 104.3, followed by New Hampshire at 104.2. North Dakota and Vermont tie for the third spot with an average IQ of 103.8. On the other end of the spectrum, Mississippi is the least intelligent state with an average IQ of 94.2.
Socioeconomic factors may play a role in the intelligence levels of different states, with the study suggesting that access to quality education is a significant aspect contributing to IQ levels. Mississippi, with the highest poverty rate in the nation at 19.6%, reflects this finding with its low average IQ score. Louisiana, with an 18.7% poverty rate, follows closely behind as the second least intelligent state with an average IQ of 95.3. California, despite falling in the middle of state poverty rankings, also ranks poorly in terms of IQ with an average of 95.5.
One theory for the decline in intelligence across the country is the increasing reliance on technology. A report from 2023 showed that the average intelligence test score in the United States fell from 100 to 98, breaking a 30-point rise that had been seen since 1905. This trend may indicate a correlation between technological advancements and a decrease in intelligence levels, although more research would be needed to confirm this hypothesis.
The rankings of states by IQ highlight the disparities that exist in terms of educational outcomes and overall intelligence levels across the country. While some states like Massachusetts and New Hampshire have high average IQ scores, states like Mississippi and Louisiana lag behind, potentially due to factors like poverty and access to quality education. Understanding these differences can help policymakers and educators address these disparities and work towards improving educational opportunities for all residents.
Despite ranking 26th in the nation for IQ, New Yorkers still have higher intelligence levels than the national average. The state’s average IQ score of 100.7 reflects the diverse educational opportunities and resources available to residents. By continuing to focus on promoting high-quality education and addressing socioeconomic factors that may impact intelligence levels, New York and other states can work towards improving overall IQ scores and creating a more educated and knowledgeable population.
While rankings based on IQ scores provide valuable insights into intelligence levels across states, it is important to consider the broader context in which these scores are generated. Factors like poverty, access to education, and technological advancements all play a role in determining IQ levels. By addressing these factors and focusing on improving educational outcomes for all residents, states can work towards closing the intelligence gap and creating a more knowledgeable and informed society.
