Find a Job You Really Want In
While there is considerable attention given to the rankings of primary and secondary schools across the United States, the focus often shifts away from higher education. Understanding the educational landscape at this level is crucial, especially as the job market evolves rapidly in 2026.
With rising tuition costs and the ongoing impact of technological advancements, many individuals are seeking alternative paths to education, including online degrees and boot camps. This article delves into which states boast the highest percentage of residents with advanced degrees, specifically those holding at least a master’s degree.
Here is our updated list of the top 10 most educated states:
- Massachusetts
- Maryland
- Connecticut
- Virginia
- New York
- Vermont
- New Jersey
- Colorado
- New Hampshire
- Rhode Island
States like Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, Connecticut, and Vermont, known for their prestigious universities, continue to lead the way in higher education.
Notably, Virginia ranks among the top five most educated states, largely due to its proximity to Washington D.C., which attracts many individuals with advanced degrees.
As of 2026, approximately 33% of Americans hold at least a bachelor’s degree, while around 12% have obtained a master’s degree. With a growing number of individuals pursuing higher education, these figures are expected to rise.
How We Determined The Most Highly Educated States
Using Census ACS data from recent years, we calculated the percentage of adults in each state with at least a master’s degree and ranked them accordingly.
Massachusetts secured the top position, while Arkansas ranked at the bottom.
1. Massachusetts
Population: 6,742,143
% Masters +: 18.17%
% Bachelors +: 41.27%
Massachusetts consistently ranks as a leader in education, with over 18% of its residents holding at least one master’s degree. This state is home to renowned institutions like MIT and Harvard, making it a prime destination for educational excellence.
2. Maryland
Population: 5,959,902
% Masters +: 17.72%
% Bachelors +: 38.42%
Maryland ranks second with 17.72% of its population holding a master’s degree. Its proximity to Washington D.C. allows graduates to leverage their education in various sectors, including government and technology.
3. Connecticut
Population: 3,588,570
% Masters +: 16.79%
% Bachelors +: 38.09%
Connecticut places third on our list, with nearly 17% of residents possessing a master’s degree. The state fosters higher education through initiatives like the Connecticut Higher Education Trust.
4. Virginia
Population: 8,310,301
% Masters +: 15.69%
% Bachelors +: 36.89%
Virginia stands out as a southern state with a significant number of highly educated residents. The state is home to esteemed universities such as the College of William and Mary and Virginia Tech.
5. New York
Population: 19,697,457
% Masters +: 15.09%
% Bachelors +: 34.79%
New York, recognized for its cultural and educational diversity, has 15% of its population holding a master’s degree. The state is home to prestigious institutions like Columbia University and NYU.
6. Vermont
Population: 626,249
% Masters +: 14.5%
% Bachelors +: 36.2%
Vermont, known for its commitment to education, ranks sixth with 14.5% of residents holding a master’s degree. The state supports initiatives that help parents save for college through programs like the Vermont Higher Education Council.
7. New Jersey
Population: 8,915,456
% Masters +: 14.36%
% Bachelors +: 37.46%
New Jersey ranks seventh with 14.36% of its population holding advanced degrees. Prestigious institutions like Princeton University and Rutgers contribute to the state’s high educational attainment.
8. Colorado
Population: 5,359,295
% Masters +: 14.34%
% Bachelors +: 38.74%
Colorado shows a commitment to diversity in higher education, ranking eighth with over 14% of residents holding a master’s degree. The state also offers unique educational opportunities through its various university campuses.
9. New Hampshire
Population: 1,327,503
% Masters +: 13.37%
% Bachelors +: 35.47%
New Hampshire is known for its collaborative efforts in higher education, with approximately 13% of its population holding a master’s degree. Institutions like the University of New Hampshire and Dartmouth College contribute to its educational reputation.
10. Rhode Island
Population: 1,054,491
% Masters +: 13.1%
% Bachelors +: 32.5%
Rhode Island rounds out our top 10 list, showcasing a strong commitment to higher education with over 13% of its residents holding advanced degrees. The state is home to respected institutions like Brown University.
Wrapping Up The Most Educated States in the US
Even if your state is not listed among the top 10, a significant portion of the American population holds advanced degrees. Approximately one-third of adults in the U.S. have completed a bachelor’s degree.
Despite the challenges posed by rising tuition costs, more individuals are opting to pursue higher education, contributing to the workforce’s increasing skill level. While many top institutions are located in New England, excellent educational opportunities exist across the country.
Though southern states may not dominate the list, they are not lacking in educational resources, with renowned universities like Duke, Emory, and Rice offering quality education in their regions.
Detailed Data On The Most Highly Educated States
| State | Masters Plus |
|---|---|
| Massachusetts | 18.17% |
| Maryland | 17.72% |
| Connecticut | 16.79% |
| Virginia | 15.69% |
| New York | 15.09% |
| Vermont | 14.5% |
| New Jersey | 14.36% |
| Colorado | 14.34% |
| New Hampshire | 13.37% |
| Rhode Island | 13.1% |
| Illinois | 12.65% |
| Delaware | 12.41% |
| Washington | 12.28% |
| California | 11.9% |
| Oregon | 11.88% |
| New Mexico | 11.64% |
| Pennsylvania | 11.5% |
| Minnesota | 11.46% |
| Kansas | 11.36% |
| Georgia | 11.07% |
| Michigan | 10.69% |
| Utah | 10.65% |
| Hawaii | 10.64% |
| Maine | 10.46% |
| Arizona | 10.44% |
| Alaska | 10.4% |
| Missouri | 10.4% |
| North Carolina | 10.25% |
| Florida | 10.04% |
| Ohio | 9.96% |
| Nebraska | 9.93% |
| Montana | 9.75% |
| Wisconsin | 9.63% |
| Texas | 9.61% |
| South Carolina | 9.58% |
| Kentucky | 9.33% |
| Tennessee | 9.25% |
| Alabama | 8.91% |
| Indiana | 8.9% |
| Wyoming | 8.76% |
| Iowa | 8.73% |
| Idaho | 8.36% |
| Oklahoma | 8.14% |
| South Dakota | 8.09% |
| Mississippi | 7.91% |
| Nevada | 7.91% |
| Louisiana | 7.9% |
| West Virginia | 7.7% |
| North Dakota | 7.68% |
| Arkansas | 7.65% |
Author
Heidi Cope is a former writer for the Zippia Career Advice blog. Her writing focused primarily on Zippia's suite of rankings and general career advice. After leaving Zippia, Heidi joined The Mighty as a writer and editor, among other positions. She received her BS from UNC Charlotte in German Studies.
