Average IQ in New York
Average IQ
100.7
US Ranking
#18
of 50 states
Region
Northeast
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 York's IQ Ranking
New York's ranking reflects its dual nature: Manhattan and the NYC metro area are among the most educated places in the world, while upstate New York and parts of the outer boroughs have more modest educational profiles. New York City alone has more Ivy League-equivalent universities than most countries, but the state's massive population and wide socioeconomic range moderate the overall average.
For global context, see how the US compares in our United States IQ page and the full country rankings.
New York vs Other Northeast States
| State | Average IQ | US Rank |
|---|---|---|
| New York | 100.7 | #18 |
| Massachusetts | 104.3 | #1 |
| New Hampshire | 104.2 | #2 |
| Vermont | 103.8 | #3 |
| Connecticut | 103.1 | #4 |
| Maine | 103.4 | #6 |
| New Jersey | 102.8 | #8 |
| Rhode Island | 101 | #17 |
| Pennsylvania | 100.5 | #20 |
| Delaware | 99.8 | #24 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average IQ in New York?
New York's estimated average IQ is 100.7, ranking #18. Manhattan and suburban Westchester/Long Island score well above average, while other areas score lower, bringing the state average near the national mean.
Why doesn't New York rank higher?
Despite having world-class universities and a financial/media hub, New York's massive population of 20 million includes wide socioeconomic diversity. NYC alone has extreme inequality between wealthy neighborhoods and impoverished communities.
How does New York compare to New Jersey?
New Jersey (102.8) outranks New York (100.7). New Jersey's more uniformly affluent suburbs contribute to a higher average, while New York's larger population includes more variation.
Explore Other States
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