Ever wondered how smart U.S. presidents really are? Intelligence plays a role in leadership but is not the only factor. Still, the idea of ranking presidents by IQ sparks curiosity.
Most presidents never had their IQs officially tested, especially those who lived before the modern IQ test existed. However, researchers have estimated their intelligence based on academic achievements, writings, and leadership records.
On average, presidents tend to have high IQs, often around 130. But some have scored even higher, reaching genius levels, while others have fallen below the norm.
In this article, we’ll look at these estimates, ranking U.S. presidents from highest to lowest IQ. But remember, being a great leader takes more than just intelligence. Let’s look at how they stack up!
Overview: Top Presidents Ranked By IQ: Highest to Lowest
This table will give you a quick view of the IQ and presidency of the top 10 Presidents with the highest IQ.
| President | Presidency Term | IQ |
| John Quincy Adams | 1825–1829 | 168.75 |
| Thomas Jefferson | 1801–1809 | 160 |
| John F. Kennedy | 1961–1963 | 160 |
| Bill Clinton | 1993–2001 | 159 |
| Jimmy Carter | 1977–1981 | 156.8 |
| James Madison | 1809–1817 | 155 |
| John Adams | 1797–1801 | 155 |
| Barack Obama | 2009–2017 | 155 |
| Franklin D. Roosevelt | 1933–1945 | 150 |
| Millard Fillmore | 1850–1853 | 149 |
Our Methodology
Estimating presidential IQs isn’t an exact science. These figures are based on factors used in IQ tests, such as problem-solving, verbal ability, and historical records of decision-making and achievements.
Since most presidents never took official IQ tests, researchers relied on biographies, writings, and leadership analysis to make educated guesses, and so did I. These estimates provide a general idea but shouldn’t be considered definitive rankings.
IQ alone doesn’t define a president’s success. Leadership, vision, and impact matter just as much, if not more, in shaping history.
10 American Presidents With Highest IQ
Based on the extensive list of all the presidents above, I have selected the presidents with the highest IQ and expanded on the information about them so that you can get to know them better.
1. John Quincy Adams
John Quincy Adams had an estimated IQ of 168.75, making him the most intelligent U.S. president.
He studied at Harvard University and was fluent in seven languages. Despite never attending law school, he became a successful lawyer.
His diplomatic skills were unmatched. He helped negotiate the Treaty of Ghent, which ended the War of 1812 and played a key role in the Florida Purchase.
As Secretary of State under President James Monroe, he helped shape the Monroe Doctrine, a key foreign policy strategy.
During his presidency (1825–1829), he faced political resistance but remained known for his intellectual depth and policy foresight.
Nicknamed “Old Man Eloquent,” Adams was a brilliant orator and thinker, leaving a legacy of intelligence and diplomacy in American politics.
2. Thomas Jefferson
Thomas Jefferson had an estimated IQ of 160, making him one of the most brilliant U.S. presidents.
As the principal author of the Declaration of Independence, he shaped the foundation of American democracy with his ideas on liberty and human rights.
Serving as the third president from 1801 to 1809, he orchestrated the Louisiana Purchase, doubling the nation’s size and expanding its economic and political power.
Beyond politics, Jefferson was a true polymath:
- He designed Monticello and founded the University of Virginia.
- A passionate advocate for scientific agriculture, he promoted crop diversification and farming innovations.
- His vast personal library became the foundation for the modern Library of Congress.
Jefferson’s thirst for knowledge was unmatched, and his contributions spanned architecture, economics, science, and philosophy. His intellect didn’t just shape a nation—it left a lasting legacy across multiple fields.
3. John F. Kennedy
John F. Kennedy had an IQ of 160, making him one of the smartest U.S. presidents.
Despite his intelligence, he struggled as a student early on, preferring sports and games over books. He eventually turned things around and graduated from Harvard in 1940.
His military career was marked by bravery. As a Navy officer in World War II, he earned a Purple Heart for his heroic actions in the South Pacific.
Before becoming president, he served in both the House and Senate. At just 43, he became the second-youngest U.S. president and remains the only Catholic to hold the office.
During his presidency, he faced major global tensions, including the Cuban Missile Crisis and the Bay of Pigs invasion. He also launched the Peace Corps and played a key role in passing the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
Kennedy was the only president to win a Pulitzer Prize, further proving his intellect and leadership. What many don’t know is that he battled serious health issues throughout his life, yet never let them define him.
4. Bill Clinton
Bill Clinton’s IQ is estimated at 159. He studied at Georgetown, became a Rhodes Scholar at Oxford, and earned a law degree from Yale.
As president (1993-2001), he signed NAFTA, introduced the Family and Medical Leave Act, and reformed welfare. His tenure included military actions in the Balkans and Middle East peace efforts.
Despite personal scandals, he completed two terms. After leaving office, he founded the Clinton Foundation, focusing on global health and economic initiatives.
5. Jimmy Carter
With an estimated IQ of 156.8, Jimmy Carter was a brilliant leader. As president (1977-1981), he played a key role in negotiating the Camp David Accords, bringing peace between Egypt and Israel.
He prioritized energy policy and environmental conservation but faced difficulties like the Iran hostage crisis.
After leaving office, he dedicated himself to humanitarian work through the Carter Center. His efforts in promoting democracy and human rights earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002.
6. James Madison
At just 5 feet 4 inches, James Madison was the shortest U.S. president, but his IQ was estimated at 155.
A deep thinker, he was Princeton’s first graduate student, though he never earned a formal degree.
He is known as the “Father of the Constitution” and authored the Bill of Rights. His wife, Dolley, helped shape the role of the First Lady.
7. John Adams
John Adams, with an estimated IQ of 155, was a key figure in shaping early America. As a lawyer-turned-statesman, he played a major role in drafting the Massachusetts Constitution, which influenced the U.S. Constitution.
He was a strong advocate for American independence, using his legal expertise to challenge British rule. In the Continental Congress, he pushed for unity and helped secure independence.
As a diplomat, Adams negotiated vital treaties in Europe, securing financial and political support for the U.S. His efforts helped gain Dutch recognition of American independence.
During his presidency, he handled tensions with France and prioritized diplomacy over war. However, his Alien and Sedition Acts sparked controversy over civil liberties.
His letters to his wife, Abigail, reveal his deep commitment to republican principles and governance. His intellect and leadership left a lasting impact on American history.
8. Barack Obama
Barack Obama’s IQ is estimated to be around 155. He graduated magna cum laude from Harvard Law School, showing strong academic abilities.
His eloquent speeches and ability to connect with diverse audiences set him apart. As the first African American president, he navigated complex political challenges with intelligence and composure, leaving a lasting impact on American leadership.
9. Franklin D. Roosevelt
With an estimated IQ of 150, Franklin D. Roosevelt was a visionary leader. During the Great Depression, he introduced the New Deal, launching programs like Social Security and the WPA to rebuild the economy.
His fireside chats made complex policies easy to understand, restoring public trust. As a wartime leader, he shaped global alliances and helped establish the United Nations.
Despite battling polio, he led with resilience, proving intellect isn’t just about strategy but also perseverance.
10. Millard Fillmore
Millard Fillmore had an estimated IQ of around 149. He started from humble beginnings and worked his way up through self-education.
His legal career showcased his sharp analytical skills. As president, he played a key role in the Compromise of 1850, navigating sectional tensions.
His ability to balance conflicting interests reflected his intelligence and strategic thinking.
IQ Tests And Their Reliability
IQ tests are widely used, but they don’t tell the full story. Intelligence is complex, and factors like creativity, emotional understanding, and practical problem-solving go beyond a simple number.
Some presidents never took an IQ test. Their scores were estimated using methods like analyzing their writings and speeches.
For example, President George W. Bush had no published works, so experts relied more on his unscripted speeches to assess his intelligence.
It’s important to note that IQ tests have limitations. They often focus on academic skills and may not account for cultural differences, potentially leading to biases.
While IQ tests do offer some insights, they don’t capture the full spectrum of human intelligence.
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Conclusion: John Quincy Adams Was The President With The Highest IQ of 175
In examining the intelligence of U.S. presidents, John Quincy Adams stands out with an estimated IQ of 175, making him the highest on record. On the other end, James Monroe had an estimated IQ of 124.1.
Regarding recent presidents, Barack Obama has an estimated IQ of 155. Donald Trump’s IQ isn’t publicly known, but his business success and political rise highlight his strategic thinking, and experts put him around the 145 range. Joe Biden’s estimated IQ is approximately around 120.
These figures offer a glimpse into the diverse intellectual capacities of America’s leaders. However, it’s essential to remember that while IQ provides some insight, effective leadership encompasses a broader range of qualities beyond intelligence.
FAQs
Abraham Lincoln’s IQ is estimated to be around 140, placing him in the gifted range.
John Quincy Adams holds the highest estimated IQ among U.S. presidents, at 175.
Ulysses S. Grant had the lowest estimated IQ among U.S. presidents, at 120.
Trump’s IQ is debated, with estimates ranging from 120 to 156. The most commonly cited figure is around 145.
