Average IQ in Montana
Average IQ
103.4
US Ranking
#7
of 50 states
Region
West
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 Montana's IQ Ranking
Montana ranks surprisingly high thanks to its well-funded rural school districts, high graduation rates, and a culture of self-reliance that values practical education. The state's small population allows for lower student-teacher ratios. Montana's outdoor-oriented lifestyle and growing remote-work economy are attracting educated professionals from larger states, further boosting its educational profile.
What Shapes Montana's Cognitive Profile
Bozeman has become the fastest growing piece of Montana's cognitive economy: Montana State University's enrollment and research spending have climbed sharply, photonics and optics firms cluster nearby, and remote tech workers have pushed Gallatin County incomes to the top of the state. The 1972 constitution's Indian Education for All mandate requires every public school to teach Native history and culture, a curricular requirement unique in the nation, though achievement gaps for Native students on reservations remain wide. Housing costs in boom towns now complicate teacher recruitment, and some districts have begun buying staff housing outright. NAEP results sit above national averages, consistent with low child poverty outside reservation counties. The University of Montana in Missoula has struggled with enrollment declines even as MSU grows, shifting the state's academic center of gravity eastward. Agricultural operations keep consolidating into fewer, more technical enterprises. The estimated average benefits from in-migration that skews heavily college educated.
For global context, see how the US compares in our United States IQ page and the full country rankings.
Montana vs Other West States
| State | Average IQ | US Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Montana | 103.4 | #7 |
| Oregon | 103.4 | #6 |
| Washington | 102.9 | #7 |
| Colorado | 102.5 | #11 |
| Wyoming | 102.4 | #11 |
| California | 101.5 | #14 |
| Idaho | 101.4 | #15 |
| Utah | 101.1 | #17 |
| Hawaii | 99.4 | #25 |
| Alaska | 99 | #30 |
| Arizona | 97.4 | #38 |
| Nevada | 96.5 | #40 |
| New Mexico | 95 | #47 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average IQ in Montana?
Montana's estimated average IQ is 103.4, ranking #7 nationally — a surprisingly high rank for a rural, sparsely populated state.
Why does Montana rank so high?
Montana benefits from well-funded rural schools, small class sizes, high graduation rates, and an influx of educated remote workers. The state's culture of self-reliance and practical education contributes to strong outcomes.
How does Montana compare to neighboring states?
Montana (103.4) outperforms most of its neighbors including Idaho (101.4), Wyoming (102.4), and the Dakotas. Its ranking is closer to Pacific Northwest states like Oregon and Washington.
Explore Other States
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MyIQScores Editorial Team
Researchers in cognitive psychology, psychometrics & educational science
Last updated
May 10, 2026
All content on MyIQScores is reviewed for scientific accuracy against peer-reviewed research in cognitive psychology and psychometrics. Our editorial team cross-references each article with published literature before publication and updates pages whenever new research warrants a revision.