What Are the Top 3 Rarest Personality Types?
One of the most widely used frameworks for personality is the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI). With 16 unique types, it provides an insight into the way we think, behave, and interact with the world. Certain types are much more common, like ISFJ, which makes up a large percentage of the population, while others are relatively rare. These rare types have a tendency to spark interest because they carry unique weaknesses and strengths that set them apart. So, who are the top three rarest MBTI personality types, and what makes them so special? Let’s discover.
1. INFJ – The Advocate (Estimated 1–2% of the population)
INFJ is often cited as being the rarest of all types. Nicknamed “The Advocate,” INFJs combine a deep empathy with a piercing intuition, making them both compassionate and insightful. They are introverts by nature, and they often prefer deep one-on-one conversations to large groups. But despite their introverted exterior, INFJs have an intense desire to help others and to make the world a better place.
What sets INFJs apart is that they pair Introverted Intuition (Ni) with Extraverted Feeling (Fe). Their intuition allows them to see patterns and connections that others do not, so they have a visionary focus. Their feeling axis focuses them on harmony and helping others. Together, they render INFJs natural therapists, mentors, or activists—people who want to contribute positively to something larger than themselves.
Yet their uniqueness also brings challenges. Because INFJs see the world in such a deep, multi-layered way, they sometimes feel misunderstood. They may struggle to articulate their inner dialogue or find others who truly connect with them. This sense of being “different” can isolate them. But when they find their calling, INFJs often become powerful forces for change—using their unusual combination of empathy and vision to inspire others.
In their professional lives, INFJs are typically attracted to careers that enable them to counsel or serve—psychology, writing, social work, teaching, or even leadership positions in non-profit organizations. Their impact is not necessarily loud or attention-grabbing, but it is frequently lasting, for they leave an indelible mark on the lives they touch.
2. ENTJ – The Commander (Estimated 1–3% of the population)
ENTJs, “The Commanders,” are another rare type, often making up only a small portion of the population. Unlike the introverted INFJ, ENTJs are assertive, action-oriented, and results-driven leaders. Their dominant function is Extraverted Thinking (Te), which urges them to plan, schedule, and execute with precision. ENTJs see inefficiency as a challenge to be overcome, and they thrive in situations where they can take charge and lead a group to victory.
What is unusual about ENTJs is that they combine strategic vision with a will to power. Lots of people have ideas, but ENTJs know how to make ideas happen. They are natural strategists, always several steps ahead of the game, and they bring a sense of direction and clarity to groups. This makes them outstanding leaders in business, politics, or any field that requires firm decision-making.
But ENTJs have their own share of weaknesses. Their intensity and assertiveness can sometimes be daunting to others or make them appear too abrasive. Because they adore efficiency so much, they may disregard emotions in favor of logic and create tension in their relationships. However, once ENTJs balance their drive with empathy, they become unbeatable leaders who not only achieve incredible things but also inspire loyalty in their followers.
One of the most compelling things about ENTJs is the way they combine vision and execution. They’re not dreamers without a plan, nor do they work without a point. Rather, they bring together big-picture thinking and the discipline to execute it. It’s this uncommon combination that leads so many ENTJs to the highest leadership positions, where they create the future instead of merely trailing behind it.
3. INTJ – The Mastermind (Estimated 2–4% of the population)
INTJs, who are sometimes known as “The Masterminds” or “The Architects,” are another of the rarest of the MBTI types. Logical, strategic, and very independent, INTJs are natural problem-solvers. Their dominant function of Introverted Intuition (Ni) allows them to see long-term potential and patterns that may be unseen by others. Paired with Extraverted Thinking (Te), not only are they able to see innovative solutions, but they can implement them effectively as well.
What distinguishes INTJs is their ability to merge logic and creativity. They do not simply want to understand how things work—they want to improve them. They thrive in environments that challenge their intellect, and they most often pursue careers in science, engineering, research, or strategic leadership. Their focus is the future, and they constantly ask themselves how to optimize systems or achieve great goals.
In spite of their strengths, INTJs do struggle with social interactions from time to time. INTJs appreciate efficiency and competency, and when other people don’t measure up, INTJs may appear dismissive or judgmental. INTJs are intensely private as well, and they frequently keep their own counsel. This makes it difficult for people to get close to them, although those who succeed usually discover a staunchly loyal and considerate partner or friend.
The rarity of INTJs is not only in their small quantity but in the unique manner in which they live their lives. They present a union of logic and imagination that is unavailable in most other types. Their influence is sure to be felt, whether they’re breaking new ground in their field or quietly constructing the systems others depend on.
Why Are These Types So Rare?
You might wonder why INFJs, ENTJs, and INTJs are so uncommon. Part of the reason lies in their cognitive functions—the mental processes that govern how they perceive the world and make decisions. For example, Introverted Intuition (Ni), which INFJs and INTJs rely on, is uncommon in the population itself. It enables these types to see patterns in a unique way, so they think differently than most. ENTJs, on the other hand, pair this unusual intuition with forceful leadership skills, setting them apart even further.
Another reason is cultural and societal expectations. Certain personality traits, like extraversion or sensing, are more commonly expressed or appreciated in most cultures. Intuitive and judging traits, which are dominant in these uncommon types, may just be less frequently developed or evident. That doesn’t make them any less valuable—if anything, their rarity works to highlight how much we need them to bring balance and diversity of thought to the world.
The winners are…
These three least common MBTI personality types—INFJ, ENTJ, and INTJ—are a small minority of the population but often have a large impact. INFJs bring empathy and vision, offering a compassionate insight into how to make the world a better place. ENTJs drive development through confident leadership and unshakeable determination. INTJs combine strategy and inventiveness, creating solutions that shape the future.
Their rarity makes them fascinating, but it’s not just about how few of them exist—it’s about the unique qualities they bring to the table. Each of these types contributes something vital: vision, leadership, and innovation. While they may sometimes feel misunderstood or isolated, their strengths are exactly what makes them invaluable.
Finally, rarity has nothing to do with numbers. It’s the ability to see, think, and do what others might not. And for INFJs, ENTJs, and INTJs, it’s their uncommon perspectives that make them so extraordinary.
