Average IQ in Montana: Estimates & Context
Estimated Avg IQ
~103
US Ranking
#7
of 50 states
Region
West
Note: No state administers IQ tests to its residents. These estimates are proxy conversions from standardized achievement scores (NAEP, SAT, ACT) — an approach popularized by McDaniel's 2006 state-IQ estimates in the journal Intelligence — combined with demographic data. Proxy conversions carry real limitations: SAT/ACT participation rates differ sharply by state and bias comparisons, and the variation within any state dwarfs the differences between states. Figures are shown rounded; decimal precision would overstate what these proxies can support. They say nothing about 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 | #7 |
| Oregon | ~103 | #6 |
| Washington | ~103 | #7 |
| Colorado | ~103 | #11 |
| Wyoming | ~102 | #11 |
| California | ~102 | #14 |
| Idaho | ~101 | #15 |
| Utah | ~101 | #17 |
| Hawaii | ~99 | #25 |
| Alaska | ~99 | #30 |
| Arizona | ~97 | #38 |
| Nevada | ~97 | #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
Take our free IQ test to see how you compare, or learn what IQ actually measures.
MyIQScores Editorial Team
Editorial team focused on cognitive testing & psychometrics research
Last updated
May 10, 2026
MyIQScores content is written and maintained by our editorial team using published research in cognitive psychology and psychometrics as its source base. We label estimates as estimates, link primary sources where available, correct errors when readers flag them, and update pages as research or feedback warrants — see our corrections policy.