25 Dumbest States in America

In this article, we will take a look at the 25 dumbest states in America.

Many people still hang onto their American dreams to this day. The phrase “American dream” first appeared in a 1931 book called The Epic of America. It was characterized by its author, James Truslow Adams, as “that dream of a land in which life should be better, richer, and fuller for everyone, with opportunity for each according to ability or achievement”. In other words, the American dream concept is grounded on the belief that success is possible for everyone, irrespective of where they were born or to which class they belong, as long as they are in a society where there is an equal opportunity for upward mobility. However, this American dream is not an easy feat; it requires the utmost hard work, risk-taking, and sacrifice rather than relying on mere luck.

As of 2021, the United States boasts an average high school graduation rate of 85.3%. Approximately 52% of the states witnessed an increase in their graduation rates. Furthermore, in 2020, there was an average of 4.09 million college graduates in the United States. Within this group, 1.9 million individuals obtained bachelor’s degrees, while 989,000 attained associate degrees. Nearly half, or 49.8%, of college graduates, earned bachelor’s degrees. However, in the United States alone, more than 1.2 million students discontinue their high school education annually. This equates to a student leaving school approximately every 26 seconds, or a staggering 7,000 students each day. Alarmingly, approximately a quarter of high school freshmen do not manage to graduate on schedule. As per the latest available data, the US state with the lowest high school graduation rate is New Mexico, where only 77% of students successfully graduate. Arizona takes the second spot in terms of low graduation rates, also at 77%. Alaska follows closely behind with a graduation rate of 79%.

Our Methodology

In this article, we won’t be utilizing high school graduation rates as a basis for identifying the least intelligent states in America. A person can make a good living without graduating from high school using his/her intelligence. That’s why we are going to base our rankings on the outcomes. In order to select the 25 dumbest states in America, three criteria are taken into account: the average income, the poverty rate, and the unemployment rate. These metrics are combined and averaged to generate our final list. In addition, the only states that made the cut had to have a population of at least 250,000 people. The data for the list of the 25 dumbest states in America was compiled from five different sources.

25 Dumbest States in America

25. Vermont

Current Population: 647,156

Poverty Rate: 10.78%

Median Household Income: 76,079

Unemployment Rate: 1.9%

Ranking 25 in our list of the 25 dumbest states in America is Vermont. Despite the presence of a high poverty rate in Vermont, it is noteworthy that the state exhibits a very high cost of living, positioning it as the 10th most economically burdensome state in the United States. This implies that all expenses, such as food, fuel, dining out, utilities, accommodation, and personal well-being, surpass the national mean. Vermont is widely acknowledged as the state with the lowest affordability index in the United States since merely 16% of households possess the financial capacity to purchase a mortgage. Moreover, it is worth noting that Vermont boasts one of the highest tax rates in the nation. Furthermore, the task of securing employment in the state of Vermont might prove to be arduous, given that the majority of available work opportunities are concentrated within the realms of insurance, government, healthcare, and education. In summation, Vermont can be characterized as a state of aesthetic appeal, accompanied by a relatively high cost of living, restricted avenues for economic expansion, and a noticeable absence of diversity.

24. Rhode Island

Current Population: 1,090,483

Poverty Rate: 11.58%.

Median Household Income: 80,650

Unemployment Rate: 2.9%

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to an increase in the harsh reality of poverty in Rhode Island. A significant portion of the population continues to face unemployment, coupled with a lack of adequate health insurance coverage for both routine expenses and the specific needs arising from COVID-19, such as hospitalizations and testing. Currently, there exists a notable prevalence of health disparity, whereby individuals may encounter barriers in accessing essential medical services due to insufficient financial resources. To this day, Rhode Island has not improved its economic status since then.

23. Delaware

Current Population: 1,031,985

Poverty Rate: 11.44%

Median Household Income: 68,687

Unemployment Rate: 4.2%

There are some drawbacks associated with residing in the state of Delaware that contribute to its overall economic health. One significant disadvantage associated with residing in Delaware is the necessity of traveling to neighboring states in order to access international aircraft services. In addition, it may be observed that Delaware experiences a certain degree of population overcrowding. Delaware is experiencing a consistent influx of individuals migrating from various states and nations, primarily driven by the numerous advantages available to its residents. Additionally, there is a scarcity of physicians in the state. The quality of public transportation in Delaware is subpar. Furthermore, it is worth noting that the state of Delaware experiences a minimum of one tornado annually.

22. Illinois

Current Population: 12,477,595

Poverty Rate: 11.99%

Median Household Income: 79,253

Unemployment Rate: 4%

Illinois ranks 22nd in our list of the 25 dumbest states in America. In terms of quality of life, Illinois did not rank among the top states. The quality of life in Illinois is influenced by both the natural environment and the social environment. In addition, the factors of community engagement, social support, and voter participation are significant. Furthermore, a significant number of individuals have departed from the state of Illinois due to the absence of urban expansion, which has failed to counterbalance the decline experienced in rural areas. The phenomenon of market towns undergoing a decline and eventual disappearance is also observed. The challenges associated with retaining young individuals in Illinois are considerable.

21. Nebraska

Current Population: 1,972,292

Poverty Rate: 10.37%

Median Household Income: 78,109

Unemployment Rate: 1.9%

The drawbacks associated with Nebraska can be quite substantial for individuals who lack knowledge regarding the state’s offerings. The high tax rates, limited diversity, occurrence of tornadoes, inadequate road infrastructure, heavy snowfall, the prevalence of seasonal allergies, and extensive farmland are among the factors that contribute to the challenges associated with inhabiting Nebraska, consequently contributing to the decline in its overall socioeconomic health.

20. Wisconsin

Current Population: 5,904,977

Poverty Rate: 10.97%

Median Household Income: 69,943

Unemployment Rate: 2.5%

Wisconsin landed in the 20th spot of the dumbest states in America. Despite the improvement of the economy in Wisconsin, poverty rates remain relatively unchanged compared to the years immediately following the Great Recession. Despite marginal increases in percentages, a significant number of residents in Wisconsin continue to face economic adversity and reside in conditions of poverty. Numerous variables contribute to the existence of poverty in Wisconsin, such as limited access to education and opportunities, the prevalence of single-parent family structures, the prevalence of low-wage and part-time jobs, the presence of barriers to employment, and a history of incarceration.

19. North Dakota

Current Population: 780,588

Poverty Rate: 10.53%

Median Household Income: 68,882

Unemployment Rate: 2%

Residing in the state of North Dakota may not be suitable for all individuals because of its declining economy. The characteristics of North Dakota have exhibited a notable degree of continuity, as little communities continue to flourish and the major cities of yesteryear persist as the focal points of urban activity in the present. The region continues to possess vast expanses of agricultural land, deeply ingrained moral principles, and a rich historical legacy that remains preserved. Despite this, North Dakota continues to face persistent challenges in terms of limited diversity, low population density, unregulated wildlife, adverse weather conditions, and a shortage of housing.

18. Idaho

Current Population: 1,973,752

Poverty Rate: 11.94%

Median Household Income: 76,918

Unemployment Rate: 2.7%

Ranking 18th in our list of the dumbest states in America is Idaho. Despite possessing numerous positive traits, Idaho is consistently ranked unfavorably in several categories. Idaho continues to encounter numerous challenges, including education, healthcare, suicide prevalence, child vaccines, household income, and the gender wage gap.

17. Pennsylvania

Current Population: 12,931,957

Poverty Rate: 11.95%

Median Household Income: 72,627

Unemployment Rate: 3.8%

Pennsylvania had a significant economic downturn as a result of its stringent shutdown measures implemented in March 2020. In that particular year, the ratio of small company closures in the region was second only to that of Michigan. In April 2020, Pennsylvania experienced a significant decline in its employment rate. Low-wage workers saw a disproportionate impact. Subsequent to that period, Pennsylvania has exhibited a slower pace of economic recovery compared to the majority of states. According to recent available data, Pennsylvania has had a comparatively lower rate of job recovery in comparison to other states. In the year 2022, legislators are presented with new prospects to address the issue of job restoration and mitigate the persistent challenge of resident outmigration.

16. Oregon

Current Population: 4,223,973

Poverty Rate: 12.36%

Median Household Income: 81,855

Unemployment Rate: 3.5%

Oregon is widely regarded as a remarkably scenic destination in the United States. However, notwithstanding its inherent magnificence, the region also exhibits some of the highest poverty rates in the nation. There are several factors contributing to the current state of affairs, including limited industry diversity, a scarcity of affordable housing options, and a lack of job opportunities. Moreover, there is a lingering effect of the financial crisis in the late 1970s and early 1980s: low corporate tax rates, a high cost of living relative to incomes, a shortage of timber revenues, and an economy heavily reliant on industries centered around the harvesting of natural resources. Notwithstanding the aforementioned, although the prevailing extent of poverty in Oregon may appear daunting, there are measures that can be taken to mitigate its impact.

15. Nevada

Current Population: 3,209,142

Poverty Rate: 12.78%

Median Household Income: 64,340

Unemployment Rate: 5.4%

Ranking 15th in our list of the 25 dumbest states in America is Nevada. Nevada allocates the lowest amount of funding towards the well-being of its populace in comparison to other states, with a mere $50 per capita dedicated to public health expenditures. Additionally, the state is situated in the lowest position in terms of the ratio of primary care physicians to the population. Moreover, the desert region has suboptimal air quality conditions, accompanied by elevated levels of criminal activity.

14. Missouri

Current Population: 6,186,091

Poverty Rate: 13.01%

Median Household Income: 63,594

Unemployment Rate: 2.6%

Missouri’s poverty can be attributed to its unfavorable reputation, characterized by perceptions of high crime rates, a lack of excitement, and economic challenges. The adverse weather conditions and prevalence of crime in Missouri contribute to a decrease in the overall cost of living and housing prices. Furthermore, the southern region of Missouri is characterized by its relatively low cost of living and lower socioeconomic status compared to other parts of the state. In the south-west region, the level of danger is comparatively lower and the level of activity is relatively higher. In all sections, the topography exhibits notable similarities, characterized by an abundance of undulating terrain.

13. Tennessee

Current Population: 7,134,327

Poverty Rate: 13.7%

Median Household Income: 62,166

Unemployment Rate: 3.2%

There are numerous factors that contribute to Tennessee’s lack of recognition as an optimal residential destination ultimately contributing its decline in overall economic health. The state underperforms over many aspects, such as infrastructure, poverty rate, education attainment, and healthcare. Due to these factors, Tennessee may not be seen as a favorable choice for most individuals to live in. Tennessee exhibits a poverty rate of 13.7%, which is among the highest in the nation. Additionally, it is characterized by relatively low levels of life satisfaction. Moreover, several communities within the state of Tennessee, such as Memphis and Nashville, have elevated levels of criminal activity. The state’s economy is positioned in the intermediate range when compared to other regions. The state’s infrastructure exhibits signs of aging and requires maintenance, hence posing challenges to transportation in certain areas. Indeed, Tennessee is said to possess a relatively substandard infrastructure in comparison to other states within the nation.

12. Texas

Current Population: 30,500,280

Poverty Rate: 14.22%

Median Household Income: 67,404

Unemployment Rate: 4.1%

Despite experiencing significant economic expansion and diversification, Texas has unfortunately had a less favorable trajectory since 1980, characterized by a higher proportion of its population living in poverty compared to the national average in the United States. The distribution of poverty in Texas, as well as in other states, does not exhibit an equitable racial distribution, as seen by the data presented in the accompanying charts and graphs. Texas is currently approaching the status of a majority-minority state, wherein the combined populations of the two largest racial minority groups, namely African-Americans and Hispanics, are projected to constitute a majority of the state’s population in the near future. Moreover, there are numerous alternative perspectives to consider poverty in Texas and to draw comparisons between Texas and the United States as a whole. These perspectives encompass various domains such as education, child care, health insurance, healthcare and health disparities, housing, and access to state services, among others.

11. Arizona

Current Population: 7,453,517

Poverty Rate: 14.12%

Median Household Income: 70,821

Unemployment Rate: 3.5%

Arizona is designated as one of the worst states due to several factors, including substandard air quality, inadequate allocation of public health resources, elevated crime rates, and a deficiency in promoting inclusivity. Furthermore, the phenomenon known as the “urban heat island effect” poses a significant challenge to numerous urban areas, with particular emphasis on the state of Arizona, as global temperatures continue to rise. The heat island effect refers to the phenomenon wherein urban areas exhibit elevated temperatures compared to their surrounding regions. Due to the anticipated consequences, it is quite probable that Phoenix will become unsuitable for human habitation in the foreseeable future. The precise timing of this event cannot be definitively determined by scientists; however, they possess knowledge regarding the indicators that will precede it. A decrease in population is foreseen in the future.

10. Georgia

Current Population: 11,037,723

Poverty Rate: 14.28%

Median Household Income: 61,497

Unemployment Rate: 3.2%

Georgia ranks 10th in our list of the 25 dumbest states in America. While Georgia provides numerous benefits to its inhabitants, there are certain disadvantages associated with residing in the state. Certain drawbacks are associated with particular areas. Georgia experiences a variety of insect species, an intense allergy season, high temperatures during the summer, and potential risks from tropical systems. The prevalence of criminal activities in certain regions, the presence of congested traffic conditions, the sizeable homeless population, and the frequently inadequate provision of public transportation services are noteworthy concerns. These concerns altogether contribute to Georgia’s decline in overall economic health.

9. South Carolina

Current Population: 5,372,002

Poverty Rate: 14.68%

Median Household Income: 62,542

Unemployment Rate: 3.1%

The issue of poverty in South Carolina has persisted for an extended period of time. Multiple causes contribute to this phenomenon, encompassing elements such as limited access to education, restricted career prospects, and inadequate income levels. Furthermore, South Carolina is positioned as the seventh most unfavorable state in the country, according to a recent analysis assessing the optimal and suboptimal locations for raising a family. This ranking is attributed to factors such as poverty, diminished life expectancy, and a disconcerting crime rate.

8. Oklahoma

Current Population: 4,048,375

Poverty Rate: 15.27%

Median Household Income: 60,096

Unemployment Rate: 2.7%

Ranking 8th in our list of the 25 dumbest states in America is Oklahoma. The existence of poverty in Oklahoma predates the establishment of the state. The early settlers encountered significant challenges, including drought, food insecurity, and a lack of infrastructure, while having limited access to material resources. During the period of the Great Depression, the state experienced a significant decrease in its population as a result of outmigration, which was primarily driven by severe levels of poverty and famine. Currently, the poverty rate in Oklahoma stands at 15.27 percent, indicating that around one in six residents of the state are experiencing poverty. Furthermore, it is noteworthy that nearly one-third of Oklahoma’s counties have a poverty rate of 20 percent or higher. Despite increasing levels of economic affluence, poverty persists and is transmitted across generations.

7. Alabama

Current Population: 5,098,746

Poverty Rate: 15.98%

Median Household Income: 56,929

Unemployment Rate: 2.2%

The root cause of poverty in Alabama is multifaceted. Certain states experience economic challenges due to a scarcity of natural resources. Contrary to the aforementioned statement, it should be noted that Alabama is characterized by a significant presence of water bodies, vast forest resources, and substantial mineral richness. The underlying causes of its impoverished state can be attributed to its social, political, and economic policies. The significant prevalence of poverty among African Americans can be attributed to the state’s extensive historical background of slavery, segregation, and racial discrimination.

6.  Arkansas

Current Population: 3,063,152

Poverty Rate: 16.08%

Median Household Income: $50,784

Unemployment Rate: 2.6%

Arkansas ranks 6th in our list of the 25 dumbest states in America. Arkansas, as an American state, is characterized by a relatively low socioeconomic status, positioning it among the states with the highest poverty rates. The issue of poverty in Arkansas has exhibited a persistent upward trend over the course of several decades, resulting in a substantial proportion of the population, approximately one-quarter, residing below the poverty threshold. Many aspects, such as the state’s economy, demographics, and other relevant elements, contribute to the state’s poverty. Arkansas exhibits a diverse array of challenges, encompassing suboptimal levels of educational achievement, constrained industrial capacity, and a low prospect for economic advancement. These aforementioned factors have played a role in the prevalence of poverty inside the state and have been further intensified by governmental policies and insufficient allocation of resources.

5. West Virginia

Current Population: 1,764,786

Poverty Rate: 16.8%

Median Household Income: 46,836

Unemployment Rate: 3.3%

West Virginia ranks 5th in our list of the 25 dumbest states in America. The account of persistent poverty in West Virginia is conveyed through statistical indicators, positioning the state at or in close proximity to the highest positions in national rankings. These rankings include several aspects, such as the state’s poorest health conditions, lowest education levels, and highest unemployment rates. However, the matter is frequently characterized by a greater degree of complexity. One perplexing aspect of the state’s struggling economy is the presence of rolling mountains, which serve as a barrier between towns and crucial industries and internet connectivity. This issue is most pronounced in the southern region of the state, commonly referred to as “coal country.” The closing of coal mines in West Virginia initiated a significant disruption to the state’s economy during the 1960s, resulting in a prolonged decline in both population and workforce that has persisted for subsequent generations. Legislators made assurances regarding the resurgence of the coal industry or the availability of alternative lucrative employment opportunities, although these aspirations failed to materialize.

4. Kentucky

Current Population: 4,518,031

Poverty Rate: 16.61%

Median Household Income: 55,629

Unemployment Rate: 3.8%

The poverty line served as a primary indicator, whereby over 30% of Kentucky’s population relies on food stamps or other forms of assistance to meet their basic needs. One of the primary factors contributing to the economic challenges faced by Kentucky is the significant decline in its key exports, which has resulted in the loss of employment opportunities. Additionally, the prevalence of a drug epidemic and high rates of obesity among the population have had detrimental effects on overall health and life expectancy, further exacerbating the state’s socioeconomic conditions. Furthermore, the outmigration of individuals from Kentucky has also contributed to the state’s economic struggles. Kentucky lacks sufficient access to higher education opportunities for its inhabitants, and individuals from outside the area are discouraged from coming or providing assistance due to the negative perception associated with the location.

3. New Mexico

Current Population: 2,110,011

Poverty Rate: 18.55%

Median Household Income: 53,463

Unemployment Rate: 3.5%

New Mexico lands at the 3rd spot of our list of the 25 dumbest states in America. According to a study, one of the lowest IQ states in America is New Mexico. Additionally, the state is frequently regarded as one of the poorest states in America, as evidenced by its consistently higher poverty rate compared to the national average. Several factors contribute to the state’s poverty, including an overreliance on low-wage employment, limited economic diversification, low educational attainment, elevated rates of poverty and inequality, a history of questionable leadership, and dependence on the federal government. Consequently, New Mexico currently holds a position among the most impoverished states in the nation. The absence of resources has resulted in significant hardships for many individuals, and a substantial portion of the population is living in poverty. It is evident that additional measures must be taken to foster economic growth and alleviate poverty in New Mexico.

2. Louisiana

Current Population: 4,553,384

Poverty Rate: 18.65%

Median Household Income: 57,206

Unemployment Rate: 3.6%

According to national statistics, Louisiana consistently exhibits subpar performance in terms of health, education, and development when compared to other states in the United States. This is often accompanied by elevated levels of poverty. Louisiana, in the year 2018, obtained the lowest ranking among all states in terms of overall health, primarily due to elevated rates of mortality associated with drug usage.

The origins of poverty in Louisiana can be traced back to the colonial era. During the 18th century, Louisiana was subjected to colonization by the French, resulting in the establishment of a deeply ingrained power structure that was predicated upon distinctions of race and social status. The implementation of this system has resulted in a lasting legacy of segregation and inequality that persists in contemporary society.

1. Mississippi

Current Population: 2,930,528

Poverty Rate: 19.58%

Median Household Income: 46,637

Unemployment Rate: 3.1%

Ranking 1st in our list of the 25 dumbest states in America, and can be considered as the dumbest city in the United States is Mississippi. The state of Mississippi’s position as one of the most economically disadvantaged states can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, its reliance on cotton agriculture both prior to and following the Civil War played a significant role. Additionally, the delayed development of its frontier bottomlands in the Mississippi Delta contributed to this situation. Furthermore, the state experienced frequent natural disasters in the form of flooding during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, necessitating substantial capital investments in levees as well as the drainage and reclamation of the bottomlands. Lastly, the slow progress in establishing railroads to connect the towns in the bottomlands with the river cities further hindered economic development in the region.

Mississippi was identified as the state with the lowest socioeconomic status in the nation. The Delta region is predominantly occupied by prominent cotton farmers who possess expansive mechanized plantations. These farmers are the primary beneficiaries of a significant proportion of the huge federal subsidies allocated to the state. However, it is important to note that a considerable number of other residents in the region continue to endure impoverished conditions, residing as rural laborers without land ownership. The chicken sector in the state has encountered comparable obstacles during its shift from small-scale, family-operated farms to huge mechanized enterprises.

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Disclosure: None. 25 Dumbest States in America is originally published on Insider Monkey.