The most and least educated US states, ranked

The US average of adults aged 25 and older with a bachelor's degree or higher is 36.8%. travelview/Getty Images Educational attainment varied across the US and across educational levels. While some states prioritize advanced degrees, others have a higher share of associate degrees. Massachusetts had the highest share of adults with bachelor's degrees or higher in 2026. Access to higher education varies widely across the US. Some states and cities have an abundance of prestigious schools and universities, while others rely on a smaller number of large public institutions to educate their populations. The importance given to a college degree also varies by state, region, and individual career path. For some, graduate degrees are a symbol of success and a gateway to high-earning careers .