Average IQ in Missouri

    Average IQ

    99.5

    US Ranking

    #26

    of 50 states

    Region

    Midwest

    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 Missouri's IQ Ranking

    Missouri sits near the national average, with St. Louis and Kansas City's knowledge economies balanced by rural communities facing economic challenges. Washington University in St. Louis is a world-class research institution, and Kansas City's tech and healthcare sectors are growing. The state's central location and lower cost of living attract educated workers from expensive coastal states.

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

    Missouri vs Other Midwest States

    StateAverage IQUS Rank
    Missouri99.5#26
    Minnesota103.7#5
    Iowa103.2#8
    Wisconsin102.9#10
    North Dakota102.7#10
    Nebraska101.4#15
    South Dakota101.4#15
    Kansas101.7#16
    Illinois100.1#22
    Ohio99.8#24
    Michigan99.4#25
    Indiana99.3#27

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the average IQ in Missouri?

    Missouri's estimated average IQ is 99.5, ranking #26 — essentially average. St. Louis and Kansas City's educated populations balance rural areas with fewer resources.

    How do St. Louis and Kansas City affect Missouri?

    Both cities have growing knowledge economies — Washington University and BJC Healthcare in St. Louis, and the Cerner/Oracle health tech hub in Kansas City. These metro areas drive Missouri's educational profile.

    How does Missouri compare to Kansas?

    Kansas (101.7) outranks Missouri (99.5). Kansas' more uniformly strong suburban school districts give it an edge, while Missouri has greater urban-rural disparity.

    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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