Top 10 Public & Private Schools in the Dallas–Fort Worth Area (2025)

Aug 28

Written By PJ Zaji

Front view of historic Dallas High School in downtown Dallas, one of the city’s top schools.

The Dallas area is also home to some of the nation’s most prestigious private schools. These campuses offer small class sizes, advanced academics, and strong extracurricular programs.

1. St. Mark’s School of Texas – Dallas

Niche Grade: A+
All-boys college preparatory school
Known for rigorous academics and leadership development

2. The Hockaday School – Dallas

Niche Grade: A+
All-girls preparatory school
Nationally recognized for excellence in STEM and arts

3. Greenhill School – Addison

Niche Grade: A+
Co-ed, diverse community with top-tier academics
Strong arts, athletics, and leadership programs

4. Cistercian Preparatory School – Irving

Small student-to-teacher ratio (6:1)
Strong Catholic tradition with a focus on academics and discipline

5. The Episcopal School of Dallas – Dallas

College prep with emphasis on academics and character
Excellent athletics and fine arts programs

6. Jesuit College Preparatory School – Dallas

Catholic all-boys school with a strong academic tradition
Known for leadership and community service

7. Parish Episcopal School – Dallas

Innovative curriculum blending academics, technology, and creativity
Offers strong athletic programs

8. Alcuin School – Dallas

Montessori-inspired curriculum
Focus on individualized learning and global perspective

9. Fort Worth Country Day – Fort Worth

Niche Grade: A+
Premier private school west of Dallas
College preparatory with strong academics and athletics

10. The Oakridge School – Arlington

Strong academics, arts, and athletics
Balanced program preparing students for higher education

How Schools Influence Dallas–Fort Worth Real Estate

Higher home values near top schools: Homes in Carroll ISD (Southlake) average $2.1 million, a nearly 400% premium over nearby areas.
Desirable districts drive demand: Families often pay more to live in Highland Park ISD, Lovejoy ISD, or Frisco ISD for access to high-performing campuses.
Long-term investment: Buying in a top district can mean stronger resale value and community stability.

FAQs About Dallas–Fort Worth Schools

1. Are Dallas ISD schools really among the best in Texas?
Yes—Dallas ISD’s magnet schools (TAG, Rangel, SEM) consistently rank in the top 25 nationally.

2. Which suburbs have the best school districts?
Southlake (Carroll ISD), Highland Park ISD, Plano ISD, Frisco ISD, and Lovejoy ISD are top-rated and highly sought after.

3. Do private schools in Dallas offer better education than public schools?
Not always. Many Dallas public magnets outperform private schools academically. Private schools, however, offer smaller classes, unique programs, and different cultures.

4. How much does it cost to attend Dallas private schools?
Tuition varies from $20,000–$40,000+ per year, depending on the school and grade level.

5. Does buying in a top-rated district guarantee better home resale value?
Generally, yes. Homes in strong districts hold value better and attract more buyers.

6. Are there good schools outside Dallas city limits?
Yes—McKinney, Frisco, Prosper, and Southlake all have excellent public and private options.

Choosing the right school is just as important as choosing the right home. In Dallas–Fort Worth, families have access to nationally recognized public magnets, elite suburban districts, and world-class private academies.

If you’re relocating to Dallas or looking for a home in a top-rated district, the right REALTOR® makes all the difference.

👉 Contact PJ Zaji today to find your perfect home near the best schools in DFW

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