In our 2024 study, we’ve explored the educational highs and lows across the United States. Leading the pack is Massachusetts, where nearly 44% of residents have at least a bachelor’s degree and close to 19% hold a graduate degree. Maryland and Vermont also shine brightly in academic achievement.
On the other end, Mississippi, Nevada, and Louisiana are struggling with lower education levels. California notably has the highest percentage of residents without a high school diploma at 14.59%.
The study also highlights a gender gap: women aged 25-44 hold bachelor’s degrees 8% more than men, yet men aged 25 and over earn 25.5% more than women with similar degrees.
This snapshot of educational achievement across the nation highlights both our successes and the areas where we need to focus our efforts to ensure a brighter future for all.
Key Findings
- High School Graduation Rate: 89% of Americans over 18 have at least a high school diploma.
- Bachelor’s Degree Attainment: 33% of Americans over 18 hold at least a bachelor’s degree.
- Gender Gap in Education: Among Americans aged 25-44, women hold bachelor’s degrees or higher at a rate 8% higher than men.
- Gender Pay Disparity: Men aged 25 and over with a degree earn 25.5% more in median annual salary compared to women.
- Earnings by Education Level: Graduates earn 23% more than those with a bachelor’s degree, 48% more than associate degree holders, 56% more than high school graduates, and 63% more than those without a high school diploma.
- The top three educated states: Massachusetts, Maryland, and Vermont
- The three least educated states: Mississippi, Nevada, and Louisiana
- California has the highest percentage of residents without a high school diploma at 14.59%.
Education Attainment in the USA, 2024
- Among 261 million Americans aged 18 and older, 89% have at least a high school diploma, and 33% have a bachelor’s degree or higher.
- In the 25-44 age group, 40.15% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, with women leading the way at 44.35%, significantly outpacing men at 36%.
Earnings Difference in America by Education Level and Gender
Earnings Disparity Between Men and Women:
- Men aged 25 and older earn a median annual salary of $56,500, while women earn $42,000, showing a 25.5% earnings disparity in favor of men.
- Among graduates, men earn a median of $103,000 compared to $72,500 for women, resulting in a 30% higher earnings rate for men.
- For those with a bachelor’s degree, men earn a median of $79,000, whereas women earn $55,000, with men earning over 30% more than women with the same degree.
Bachelor’s Degree Holders Earnings and Comparison with Others:
- The median annual salary for bachelor’s degree holders is $65,000.
- Bachelor’s degree holders earn 32% more than those with a college (associate) degree, 43% more than high school graduates, and 53% more than those with less than a high school education.
Graduate Degree Holders Earnings and Comparison with Others:
- Individuals with graduate or professional degrees earn a median annual salary of $84,000.
- Graduate degree holders earn 23% more than bachelor’s degree holders, 48% more than college (associate) degree holders, 56% more than high school graduates, and 63% more than individuals with less than a high school education.
Most Educated States in America, 2024 (Map)
Ranking the Most Educated States in America, 2024 (Table)
Grad Degree Holders: Top vs Bottom States (%)
- Massachusetts leads with 18.70% of its residents holding graduate or professional degrees, the highest in the nation.
- North Dakota has the lowest percentage of residents with graduate or professional degrees at 8.16%.
Bachelor's Degrees or Higher: Top vs Bottom States (%)
- Massachusetts has the highest percentage of residents with a bachelor's degree or higher at 43.56%.
- Mississippi has the lowest percentage of residents with a bachelor's degree or higher at 22.48%.
Associate's Degrees: Top vs Bottom States (%)
- North Dakota has the highest percentage of residents with an associate's degree at 18.93%.
- New Jersey has the lowest percentage of residents with an associate's degree at 10.20%.
High School Diplomas: Top vs Bottom States (%)
- West Virginia has the highest percentage of residents with only a high school diploma at 38.74%.
- Colorado has the lowest percentage of residents with only a high school diploma at 21.84%.
Less Than High School Graduation: Top vs Bottom States (%)
- California has the highest percentage of residents with less than a high school diploma at 14.59%.
- Vermont and Maine both have the lowest percentage of residents with less than a high school diploma at 5.69%.
10 Most Educated States in America, 2024
#1. Massachusetts
Massachusetts is shining bright as the most educated state in America, earning a top score of 90. Nearly 44% of residents aged 18 and older hold at least a bachelor's degree, and almost 19% have gone on to earn a graduate or professional degree. With world-renowned institutions like Harvard and MIT calling it home, it's no wonder Massachusetts is a leader in higher education.
The state also has a remarkably low percentage of residents with less than a high school diploma, at just 8.75%. This strong educational foundation means that households in Massachusetts likely enjoy higher median earnings, as those with bachelor’s degrees typically earn significantly more. The state's commitment to providing broad access to quality education ensures that its residents have ample opportunities to pursue advanced degrees, securing its position at the top of our list.
#2. Vermont
Vermont stands out as the second-most educated state in the United States with a score of 89.75. Approximately 40.23% of its residents aged 18 and older hold at least a bachelor's degree, and 17.29% have earned a graduate or professional degree. This high level of education is bolstered by institutions such as the University of Vermont and Middlebury College, which are known for their academic excellence.
Additionally, Vermont has a low percentage of residents with less than a high school diploma, at just 5.69%. This strong educational foundation likely results in higher median household earnings, as higher education levels correlate with increased income.
#3. Maryland
Maryland is the third-most educated state in the US, achieving a score of 80.44. About 40.88% of its residents aged 18 and older have at least a bachelor's degree, and 18.32% hold a graduate or professional degree. The state's strong educational standing is supported by notable institutions like Johns Hopkins University and the University of Maryland.
Maryland also emphasizes education at all levels, which is evident from its high school graduation rates. With only 8.91% of its population having less than a high school diploma, the state ensures a solid educational foundation for its residents. This commitment to education is reflected in higher median household earnings, as those with advanced degrees typically earn more. Maryland's focus on academic excellence and accessibility underscores its high ranking in our study.
#4. Connecticut
Connecticut ranks fourth among the most educated states in the United States, with a score of 76.71. Approximately 39.17% of its residents aged 18 and older hold at least a bachelor's degree, and 16.62% have earned a graduate or professional degree. This high level of education is supported by prestigious institutions such as Yale University and the University of Connecticut.
The state also has a strong educational foundation, with only 8.60% of its population having less than a high school diploma. The correlation between educational attainment and income is evident, as higher education levels generally lead to better median household earnings.
#5. New Hampshire
New Hampshire ranks fifth on the list of the most educated states in the United States, with a score of 76.71. About 38.46% of its residents aged 18 and older hold at least a bachelor's degree, and 14.97% have earned a graduate or professional degree. The state's educational excellence is reflected in the high performance of institutions like Dartmouth College and the University of New Hampshire.
New Hampshire also boasts a high percentage of high school graduates, with only 6.18% of its population having less than a high school diploma. This strong educational base contributes to higher median household earnings and overall economic well-being.
#6. Colorado
Colorado ranks sixth among the most educated states in the United States, with a score of 75.29. About 42.33% of its residents aged 18 and older hold at least a bachelor's degree, and 15.06% have earned a graduate or professional degree. Colorado's educational achievements are bolstered by prominent institutions such as the University of Colorado Boulder and Colorado State University.
The state has a relatively low percentage of residents with less than a high school diploma, at just 7.44%. This strong educational foundation is likely a contributing factor to higher median household earnings, as higher education levels generally lead to better income.
#7. New Jersey
New Jersey takes the seventh spot in the rankings with a score of 73.05. The state is notable for its high percentage of residents with advanced education; 40.86% of adults aged 18 and older have at least a bachelor's degree, and 15.70% have a graduate or professional degree. This educational strength is supported by top-tier institutions like Princeton University and Rutgers University.
In addition to its high level of college graduates, New Jersey has worked to minimize educational disparities, with only 9.47% of its population lacking a high school diploma. The emphasis on education not only enhances the state’s workforce but also boosts household earnings, reflecting the strong correlation between higher education and income.
#8. Virginia
Virginia secures the eighth position in our list with a score of 72.57. The state boasts a well-educated population, with 38.82% of residents aged 18 and older holding at least a bachelor's degree and 16.30% possessing a graduate or professional degree. This educational achievement is significantly supported by renowned institutions such as the University of Virginia and Virginia Tech.
What sets Virginia apart is its relatively low percentage of individuals with less than a high school education, at just 8.58%. The state's strong educational infrastructure contributes to higher median household incomes, given the direct link between advanced degrees and earning potential.
#9. Maine
Maine ranks ninth among the most educated states in the United States, with a score of 63.98. About 33.92% of its residents aged 18 and older hold at least a bachelor's degree, and 12.44% have earned a graduate or professional degree. The state's educational accomplishments are supported by institutions such as Bowdoin College and the University of Maine.
Maine stands out for having one of the highest percentages of high school graduates in the country, with only 5.69% of its population having less than a high school diploma. This strong educational base is likely a contributing factor to better median household earnings, as higher education levels are closely tied to increased income.
#10. New York
New York rounds out the top ten most educated states with a score of 63.96. Approximately 37.73% of its residents aged 18 and older hold at least a bachelor's degree, and 15.67% have earned a graduate or professional degree. The state's educational prowess is anchored by world-renowned institutions like Columbia University and New York University.
Despite its urban challenges, New York maintains a strong educational foundation, with only 11.80% of its population having less than a high school diploma. This commitment to education at all levels supports higher median household earnings, reflecting the positive impact of advanced degrees on income.
10 Least Educated States in America, 2024
#50. Nevada
Nevada ranks as the least educated state in the United States with a final score of 10. Only 24.95% of residents aged 18 and older hold at least a bachelor's degree, and 8.45% have a graduate or professional degree. Additionally, 12.69% of Nevada's population has less than a high school diploma. Nevada also faces challenges due to its transient and diverse population. Despite these hurdles, institutions like the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), and the University of Nevada, Reno, strive to improve educational opportunities across the state.
#49. Mississippi
Mississippi ranks as the second least educated state in the country with a final score of 12.06. The state has the lowest percentage of residents with a bachelor's degree or higher at 22.48%, and only 8.34% have a graduate or professional degree. Additionally, 12.76% of Mississippi's population has less than a high school diploma, contributing to the state's low educational attainment. Despite these challenges, Mississippi is home to institutions like the University of Mississippi and Mississippi State University, which strive to improve educational outcomes and opportunities for its residents.
#48. Louisiana
Louisiana comes in as the third least educated state, with a score of 15.89. Just 24.84% of residents have a bachelor's degree or higher, and 8.92% hold a graduate or professional degree. Moreover, 12.84% of the population has less than a high school education. Louisiana also has one of the lowest percentages of residents with an associate degree, highlighting a gap in intermediate educational attainment. However, institutions like Louisiana State University and Tulane University are working to boost educational standards and opportunities in the state.
#47. Arkansas
Arkansas ranks fourth among the least educated states, with a score of 17.58. Only 23.44% of its residents aged 18 and older hold at least a bachelor's degree, and just 8.46% have a graduate or professional degree. Additionally, 11.09% of Arkansas’s population has not completed high school. Despite these statistics, the state benefits from institutions like the University of Arkansas, which work to improve educational attainment and opportunities.
#46. Oklahoma
Oklahoma is the fifth least educated state with a score of 20.93. Around 25.89% of residents have a bachelor's degree or higher, and 8.59% hold a graduate or professional degree. Additionally, 10.86% of the population has less than a high school education. The state's educational challenges are balanced by efforts from universities like the University of Oklahoma and Oklahoma State University to enhance educational outcomes.
#45. West Virginia
West Virginia ranks sixth among the least educated states, with a score of 24.12. Approximately 23.20% of its residents aged 18 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, and 8.73% have a graduate or professional degree. Additionally, 10.87% of the population has less than a high school diploma. Despite these challenges, West Virginia University and Marshall University are pivotal in improving education and opportunities in the state.
#44. Texas
Texas ranks seventh in the list of least educated states, with a score of 26.04. About 31.02% of residents aged 18 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, and 10.67% have a graduate or professional degree. However, Texas faces significant challenges with 13.93% of its population having less than a high school diploma, the second highest after California. Universities like the University of Texas and Texas A&M University play a crucial role in striving to enhance educational standards and opportunities.
#43. Alabama
Alabama is the eighth least educated state with a score of 26.15. Around 26.38% of residents aged 18 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, and 9.88% have a graduate or professional degree. Additionally, 11.29% of the population has less than a high school diploma. Institutions like the University of Alabama and Auburn University are working to improve educational outcomes in the state.
#42. Kentucky
Kentucky ranks ninth among the least educated states, with a score of 27.09. Approximately 25.95% of its residents aged 18 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, and 10.06% have a graduate or professional degree. Additionally, 11.12% of the population has less than a high school diploma. Despite these challenges, the University of Kentucky and the University of Louisville strive to enhance educational opportunities in the state.
#41. New Mexico
New Mexico rounds out the list as the tenth least educated state, with a score of 27.54. Around 27.64% of residents aged 18 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, and 11.85% have a graduate or professional degree. Additionally, 12.31% of the population has less than a high school diploma. The state's educational institutions, including the University of New Mexico and New Mexico State University, are essential in working to improve educational attainment and opportunities.
Methodology
To determine the most and least educated states in America, Writerbuddy compared the 50 states across various levels of educational attainment. The data was sourced from the American Community Survey by the United States Census Bureau, 2022 (the latest available). The study population comprised approximately 260,961,960 individuals aged 18 years or older.
We examined these dimensions using five relevant metrics, listed below with their corresponding weights. Each metric was graded on a 100-point scale, with a score of 100 representing the “most educated.”
We then determined each state’s weighted average across all metrics to calculate its overall score and used the resulting scores to rank the states.
Educational Attainment - Total Points: 100
- Share of Adults Aged 18 and Older with a Graduate or Professional Degree: Full Weight (~40 Points)
- Share of Adults Aged 18 and Older with a Bachelor's Degree or Higher: Full Weight (~35 Points)
- Share of Adults Aged 18 and Older with an Associate's Degree: Full Weight (~25 Points)
- Share of Adults Aged 18 and Older with a High School Diploma or Equivalent: Full Weight (~20 Points)
- Share of Adults Aged 18 and Older with Less than a High School Diploma: Full Negative Weight (~-20 Points)
