Average IQ in Pennsylvania
Average IQ
100.5
US Ranking
#20
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 Pennsylvania's IQ Ranking
Pennsylvania's IQ ranking reflects its split personality — the highly educated Philadelphia and Pittsburgh metro areas anchored by UPenn, Carnegie Mellon, and numerous other universities, versus the rural and former industrial communities in between. The state has undergone a significant economic transition from manufacturing to healthcare, education, and technology, with educational outcomes tracking these economic changes.
For global context, see how the US compares in our United States IQ page and the full country rankings.
Pennsylvania vs Other Northeast States
| State | Average IQ | US Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | 100.5 | #20 |
| 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 |
| New York | 100.7 | #18 |
| Delaware | 99.8 | #24 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average IQ in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania's estimated average IQ is 100.5, ranking #20 nationally. Philadelphia and Pittsburgh drive the average up, while rural and post-industrial communities moderate it.
How do Pittsburgh and Philadelphia compare?
Both cities have transformed into knowledge economies with strong university systems. Pittsburgh's tech renaissance (Carnegie Mellon, robotics, AI) and Philadelphia's medical/pharma corridor both attract highly educated workers.
How does Pennsylvania compare to New York?
Pennsylvania (100.5) is close to New York (100.7). Both states have major cities with educated populations balanced by rural areas with lower educational outcomes.
Explore Other States
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