Kentucky Leads US in High School Graduation Rate, Alaska Ranks Lowest

Kentucky has the highest high school graduation rate in the US, with 93.60% of students graduating within four years. Conversely, Alaska recorded the lowest rate, with 79.87% of students completing high school in the same timeframe.

Business Insider compiled these statistics by comparing the most recent graduation rates reported by all 50 states. The data was sourced from state education agencies and public data portals. Most percentages reflect the 2024-2025 school year, though a few states, including Connecticut, Delaware, Kansas, Ohio, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, and Texas, had only 2023-2024 numbers publicly available.

Graduation rates are complex metrics, influenced by varying diploma requirements from state to state. Most states adhere to the four-year adjusted cohort graduation rate formula, which tracks first-time ninth graders who earn a regular high school diploma within four years, adjusting for transfers.

Despite the complexities, a high school diploma is a significant indicator of educational achievement. Higher levels of education are consistently associated with increased earnings nationwide. According to Census data, US adults aged 25 or older with a high school degree earn an average of $8,216 more per year than those without one.

In addition to graduation rates, Business Insider's compilation also listed each state's public school spending per pupil and median household income to provide further context.

(Source: Business Insider)