Average IQ in Louisiana

    Average IQ

    95.3

    US Ranking

    #45

    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 Louisiana's IQ Ranking

    Louisiana faces significant educational challenges rooted in high poverty rates, limited education funding, and the lingering effects of Hurricane Katrina on New Orleans' school system. Interestingly, New Orleans' post-Katrina charter school experiment has produced mixed but sometimes promising results. Baton Rouge benefits from LSU's presence, and the state's oil industry supports some well-funded communities, but overall educational outcomes remain below the national average.

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

    Louisiana vs Other South States

    StateAverage IQUS Rank
    Louisiana95.3#45
    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
    Kentucky96#42
    Alabama95.7#43
    West Virginia95.5#44
    Arkansas95#46
    Mississippi94.2#50

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the average IQ in Louisiana?

    Louisiana's estimated average IQ is 95.3, ranking #45. High poverty rates and education funding challenges contribute to below-average cognitive test performance.

    How did Hurricane Katrina affect Louisiana's education?

    Katrina devastated New Orleans' already struggling school system. The post-Katrina rebuild transitioned most schools to charters, creating a natural experiment in education reform with mixed results — some schools dramatically improved while others have not.

    How does Louisiana compare to Mississippi?

    Louisiana (95.3) ranks slightly above Mississippi (94.2). Both states face similar challenges with poverty and education funding, though Louisiana's larger urban economies provide somewhat more educational resources.

    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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