Average IQ in Kentucky

    Average IQ

    96

    US Ranking

    #42

    of 50 states

    Region

    South

    Note: State-level IQ estimates are derived from standardized test scores (NAEP, SAT, ACT) and demographic data. They reflect population-level trends influenced by education funding, socioeconomic factors, and demographics — not the intelligence of any individual resident.

    About Kentucky's IQ Ranking

    Kentucky faces educational challenges particularly in its rural eastern Appalachian communities, where poverty rates are among the nation's highest. Lexington (University of Kentucky) and Louisville have growing knowledge economies, but the state's overall educational attainment is below the national average. Kentucky was an early adopter of education reform in the 1990s (KERA), which produced initial improvements.

    For global context, see how the US compares in our United States IQ page and the full country rankings.

    Kentucky vs Other South States

    StateAverage IQUS Rank
    Kentucky96#42
    Virginia101.9#9
    Maryland102.3#12
    Texas99.6#26
    North Carolina99.2#28
    Florida98.4#32
    Georgia98#35
    Tennessee97.1#39
    Oklahoma97#39
    South Carolina96.4#41
    Alabama95.7#43
    West Virginia95.5#44
    Louisiana95.3#45
    Arkansas95#46
    Mississippi94.2#50

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the average IQ in Kentucky?

    Kentucky's estimated average IQ is 96.0, ranking #42. Lexington and Louisville are improving, but rural Appalachian poverty continues to challenge the state's educational outcomes.

    Did Kentucky's education reform help?

    The 1990 Kentucky Education Reform Act (KERA) was nationally recognized for its ambitious approach. It produced meaningful improvements in the 1990s, though gains have plateaued. The reform demonstrated that even struggling states can improve with political will.

    How does Kentucky compare to West Virginia?

    Kentucky (96.0) outranks West Virginia (95.5). Both face Appalachian poverty challenges, but Kentucky's larger metro areas (Lexington, Louisville) provide more educational resources and economic opportunity.

    Explore Other States

    Massachusetts (104.3)New Hampshire (104.2)Vermont (103.8)Connecticut (103.1)Minnesota (103.7)Oregon (103.4)Maine (103.4)Washington (102.9)

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