Average IQ in New Mexico
Average IQ
95
US Ranking
#47
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 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 | 103.4 | #6 |
| Washington | 102.9 | #7 |
| Montana | 103.4 | #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 |
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
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.