Study reveals the smartest states in the US

Your state of residence may influence more than just your lifestyle—it could also impact your IQ. A new study by Web3 platform Freename has ranked the smartest states in America, measuring factors like business and professional performance, educational attainment, IQ levels, lifelong learning, intellectual engagement, standardized test scores, and innovation in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics). The rankings are based on a comprehensive analysis of various indicators, and here’s a look at the top 10 brainiest states...

Massachusetts took the top spot, largely due to its impressive average IQ of 104.3 and the high percentage of residents holding graduate or bachelor's degrees. The state is also home to world-renowned universities like Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), which contribute to a culture of academic excellence. According to the study, the state's emphasis on quality education and intellectual engagement is reflected in its top ranking.

Connecticut followed closely behind, ranking second with an average IQ of 103.1. The state also excelled in standardized test performance, particularly in reading and math, where students outperformed many of their peers across the nation.

Out west, Washington claimed the third position, distinguished by its high average SAT scores and the largest percentage of residents employed in STEM fields at 9.5 percent. This aligns with Washington's reputation as a hub for technology and innovation, with major companies like Microsoft and Amazon calling the state home.

Other states in the top 10—Vermont, Virginia, New Jersey, New Hampshire, Maryland, Colorado, and Minnesota—all showed strong results in education, IQ scores, and career achievements. For instance, Vermont had an average IQ of 103.8, the third highest in the nation, and an impressive 44.37 percent of its residents held at least a bachelor’s degree.

In Virginia, nearly 9 percent of the population was employed in STEM fields, reflecting the state's investment in science and technology. New Jersey stood out for its low dropout rate of just 3.25 percent among students aged 16 to 24, alongside a notable average IQ of 102.8.

'Education in America varies widely from state to state, creating a landscape where some regions consistently outperform others in academic achievement and resources,' said Davide Vicini, CEO of Freename.

He added, 'States often ranked as the "smartest," like Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Washington, benefit from a combination of well-funded school systems, highly qualified teachers, and a strong emphasis on higher education access. These states tend to have higher graduation rates, standardized test scores, and college enrollment numbers.'

The study highlights the connection between education, income, and cultural attitudes toward learning. States that view education as a fundamental part of their identity tend to produce residents with higher levels of academic achievement, setting them on a path toward success in an increasingly knowledge-driven world.

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