Education remains a key factor in economic success, with Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data showing a strong correlation between higher education, higher income, and lower unemployment rates. In a new report from WalletHub, South Carolina ranks 38th among the most educated states in the U.S.
How South Carolina Compares
While South Carolina avoids placement in the bottom 10, its ranking at 38th highlights the challenges the state faces in improving educational attainment and school quality. The report evaluates all 50 states based on 18 metrics, including graduation rates, higher education achievement, and achievement gaps.
Top & Bottom Ranked States
- Most Educated States: Massachusetts takes the top spot, followed by Maryland, Vermont, and Colorado. These states have high percentages of residents with bachelor’s and advanced degrees.
- Least Educated States: West Virginia ranks 50th, with Mississippi, Louisiana, and Arkansas also in the bottom four. These states tend to have lower graduation rates and larger educational disparities.
Key Findings from the Report:
- New Jersey has the highest-rated school system, significantly outperforming states at the bottom.
- Massachusetts has the highest percentage of residents with a bachelor’s degree—double that of West Virginia.
- Maine has the smallest racial gap in educational attainment, with Black residents earning degrees at a higher rate than white residents.
South Carolina’s Education Outlook
While South Carolina continues to improve in areas such as high school graduation rates and workforce training, the state lags behind in higher education attainment. Continued investment in education initiatives is critical for improving the state’s ranking and economic outlook.
For the full report and detailed rankings, visit: WalletHub’s Report.
