When people talk about the “dumbest” states in the United States, they usually mean those that consistently rank low in education, literacy, and critical thinking metrics—not intelligence itself. In this context, “dumbest” refers to states facing persistent educational challenges, including high dropout rates, low standardized test scores, and limited access to higher education.
Using data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), and World Population Review’s most recent rankings, here are the 10 states struggling the most with education in 2025.
1. Mississippi
Why It Ranks Low:
Mississippi has long struggled with poor educational outcomes. The state consistently ranks near the bottom in reading and math proficiency among 4th and 8th-graders. ACT and SAT scores are well below the national average, and only about 22% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Challenges:
- High poverty rates
- Teacher shortages
- Underfunded school districts
2. West Virginia
Why It Ranks Low:
West Virginia faces systemic educational and economic issues. The state has one of the lowest high school graduation rates and lags in higher education enrollment. Literacy and numeracy levels are among the worst in the country.
Challenges:
- Aging population
- Brain drain of younger, educated residents
- Decline of coal-based economy affecting public education funding
3. Louisiana
Why It Ranks Low:
Despite efforts to reform its education system, Louisiana still ranks poorly in national education indexes. Only 24% of adults have a college degree, and the state’s public schools perform significantly below the national average.
Challenges:
- Inequality in school funding
- High child poverty rate
- Low teacher pay and retention
4. Arkansas
Why It Ranks Low:
Arkansas schools struggle with low literacy rates and poor test scores. The state ranks near the bottom in educational attainment and has limited access to pre-kindergarten programs.
Challenges:
- Rural school districts with limited resources
- Low investment in early childhood education
- Limited internet access in rural communities
5. Alabama
Why It Ranks Low:
Alabama’s educational system continues to be plagued by low performance in reading and math and poor ACT scores. Teacher shortages and low salaries make it difficult to retain talent.
Challenges:
- Segregated school systems
- Limited access to STEM education
- Political resistance to education reform
6. Nevada
Why It Ranks Low:
Though known for Las Vegas and tourism, Nevada’s education system is often ranked among the worst. High dropout rates and low high school graduation rates remain major issues.
Challenges:
- Large class sizes
- Limited public school funding
- Transient student population due to economic migration
7. New Mexico
Why It Ranks Low:
New Mexico ranks low in nearly every educational category, from test scores to graduation rates. The state has a high percentage of English-language learners, which can complicate early education efforts.
Challenges:
- Underfunded schools
- Language barriers
- Limited access to educational technology
8. Kentucky
Why It Ranks Low:
Although some districts are improving, Kentucky continues to rank poorly in adult literacy and college readiness. A large portion of the population does not have post-secondary education.
Challenges:
- Low household income
- Poor rural education infrastructure
- Lack of broadband internet access
9. Alaska
Why It Ranks Low:
Alaska’s unique geography presents barriers to delivering consistent, high-quality education. Many remote areas have few teachers and limited access to resources.
Challenges:
- Geographic isolation
- Weather-related school closures
- Low student attendance rates
10. Indiana
Why It Ranks Low:
Indiana often falls in the bottom third in national rankings due to below-average ACT scores and limited per-pupil funding. While there are strong school districts, many rural and inner-city areas struggle.
Challenges:
- Politicized education policy
- Declining school enrollment
- Teacher burnout
Final Thoughts
It’s important to emphasize that labeling a state as “dumb” is not a reflection of the intelligence or potential of its residents. Instead, it highlights ongoing educational and socioeconomic struggles that can hold communities back. Many of these states are actively working to improve their school systems through reforms, funding boosts, and teacher support initiatives. Educational success is achievable, but it requires long-term commitment and investment.
Rather than ridicule, these rankings should inspire a national dialogue about equity in education and the importance of supporting all students—no matter where they live.