Average IQ in New Mexico: Estimates & Context
Estimated Avg IQ
~95
US Ranking
#47
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 New Mexico's IQ Ranking
New Mexico's ranking reflects a paradox — the state is home to two national laboratories (Los Alamos, Sandia) and major research institutions, yet has some of the nation's highest child poverty rates and lowest educational outcomes. The contrast between the scientific elite in Los Alamos/Santa Fe and the struggling schools on Native American reservations and in rural communities is among the starkest in the country.
What Shapes New Mexico's Cognitive Profile
The Yazzie/Martinez ruling in 2018 found New Mexico failing its constitutional duty to Native American, low-income, and English learner students, a sweeping decision that still drives legislative sessions. Oil revenue from the Permian Basin has since funded an early childhood trust fund worth billions and the Opportunity Scholarship, which makes public college tuition-free for most residents, among the most generous arrangements in the country. The state perennially ranks 50th in child wellbeing in the Kids Count survey, the underlying constraint on every outcome measure. Intel's Rio Rancho fab, operating since 1980, predates the current semiconductor boom and remains a major technical employer outside Albuquerque. The film industry, anchored by Netflix's Albuquerque studios, has built a below-the-line production workforce from scratch. Spaceport America and White Sands add niche aerospace activity. UNM struggles with graduation rates despite real research strength. The estimated average ranks near the bottom, yet the new money flowing toward young children has no precedent in state history.
For global context, see how the US compares in our United States IQ page and the full country rankings.
New Mexico vs Other West States
| State | Average IQ | US Rank |
|---|---|---|
| New Mexico | ~95 | #47 |
| Oregon | ~103 | #6 |
| Washington | ~103 | #7 |
| Montana | ~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 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average IQ in New Mexico?
New Mexico's estimated average IQ is 95.0, ranking #47. Despite hosting two world-class national labs, high poverty and educational challenges in many communities pull the average down.
Why does New Mexico score low despite having national labs?
Los Alamos and Sandia's scientists are a tiny fraction of New Mexico's population. The state has high child poverty, large rural and reservation communities with limited resources, and one of the nation's widest socioeconomic gaps between its wealthiest and poorest residents.
How does New Mexico compare to Arizona?
Arizona (97.4) outranks New Mexico (95.0). Both face similar challenges with Native American education equity and border community resources, but Arizona's larger metro economies provide more educational momentum.
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.