2023 Best Schools in the Los Angeles Area

• Studio City, CA•

• Private School•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 4.47 out of 5  163 reviews

Parent: Joyful pursuit of excellence! My two daughters are attending Harvard-Westlake. One is in lower school and the other is a junior in the upper school. For the past several years they have been evolving and focusing on the health and well-being of the students! Late starts for high school students, days off for high school students, day trips to Disneyland! Head of School Rick Commons and Associate Head of School Laura Ross are incredible! The teachers are passionate, enthusiastic, outstanding (they often incorporate curbed grading) and there's a supportive team/learning specialists, psychologists who are there for students and parents no matter where they are on their journey! My kids are learning to listen effectively. work collaboratively, enhancing their emotional intelligence quotient. Applying historical-cultural insights to contemporary moments, have a richer appreciation for the need to be an engaged active glocal and global citizen and are more than ready for college!... Read 163 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,620

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• La Canada Flintridge, CA•

• Private School•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 4.66 out of 5  105 reviews

Parent: So far, so good. Son chose this school over other top schools because he liked the community there. Happy to report that he is loving school and the food and getting acclimated very well. The HS academics are challenging which is a plus but I never got the sense that he is stressed out. It is a healthy and manageable level for him but could be difficult if student is not used to the rigor. The teachers and admins are very supportive and available and most of the students are friendly, nice, and well rounded. We love the school so much that we are excitedly waiting to get our younger one there for 7th!... Read 105 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 530

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Pasadena, CA•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.2 out of 5  107 reviews

Parent: As a parent of current poly students, I can attest to the quality of the teachers, faculty, student body and facilities. Poly is academically rigorous and sets high expectations for its students while providing the scholastic and emotional support needed to ensure every student has an opportunity to succeed. Poly also does an admirable job incorporating character building into their curriculum. Compassion, service, self awareness, diversity, inclusion, tolerance and integrity are all modeled and reinforced throughout the campus at every grade level. Poly can of course continue to work on its diversity by reaching out to the larger Los Angles community to attract a more broad coalition of students. That said, we could not be happier. Most importantly our children (middle and high school) feel happy, proud, challenged, accepted, supported and seen.... Read 107 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 872

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Newport Coast, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.15 out of 5  101 reviews

Parent: As a parent of a current Sophomore and incoming Freshman, our family experience with Sage has been nothing but great. My current Sage student takes advantage of athletics, the music department, languages, affinity groups and clubs and is taking the most rigorous course load I could imagine. While the school can be very competitive, for our children that works. The key is for your child to take advantage of the resources and find their own path. I think the school honestly tries to balance each student's load and guide them well, but smart, competitive kids are going to push themselves. The teachers, advisors, staff and coaches that I have met have been incredible and wonderfully supportive. They genuinely care and have gone above and beyond to mentor and support our child. I have also really loved meeting other parents from Sage. Highly recommend Sage for any student ready to take advantage of all the school has to offer.... Read 101 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 550

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Los Angeles, CA•

• Private School•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 4.52 out of 5  79 reviews

Senior: Windward excelled my expectations in every possible way. Their sports teams are intense and insane going against the best competition in the country. And the offer and endless stream of activities for your children. The relationship between parents, students, and faculty are all around great. Lots of communication and preparation to ready your children for higher education. The only downside I did notice was every so often our community would be put inside a bubble. Although it’s great to have a nurturing community, someonetimes our children have to see reality for what it is.... Read 79 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 625

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Los Angeles, CA•

• Private School•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 4.37 out of 5  163 reviews

Parent: As a parent, I can not say enough wonderful things about Marlborough. It is truly a top-notch school and affords students not only a superb education but a deep sense of community. The academics are rigorous but the support the students receive to be successful is second to none. The teachers, administrators, faculty, staff, and coaches are beyond excellent. The community is diverse, welcoming, kind, curious, and intelligent. I would highly recommend Marlborough without reservation!... Read 163 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 533

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Pasadena, CA•

• Private School•

• 4-12

• •
  Rating 4.38 out of 5  130 reviews

Parent: When we were looking for private school, we were looking for a school not only offers robust academic curriculums, but also emphasizes on character and social-emotional learning. Our daughters have been with Westridge since 4th grade, and our experiences have always been positive. With more than 100 years of history under strong leadership, Westridge is very proficient in providing an environment that's best fit in shaping young, independent girls. The school continuously evolves and does an excellent job empowering young minds to meet new challenges of modern days. Our daughters are continuously challenged intellectually and never be afraid to make a mistake. We are especially impressed by how Westridge takes an early initiative with DEI and encourages the whole community to make a difference. Teachers and administrators are truly supportive and nurturing. With confidence, we know that we are raising intellectual and well-rounded daughters together.... Read 130 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 550

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• Claremont, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.44 out of 5  88 reviews

Alum: Recent alum here, fantastic school for academic development. The teachers here are top notch and the relationships they foster with students is extremely unique at the high school level. We were spoiled at Webb and I constantly am reminded of how much I was blessed to attend a school that is so enriching in several areas. By FAR the best school academically in the area, and nothing within a 40 mile radius offers anything better or even remotely close to the quality and personalization of a Webb education. Beautiful campus, quality location, top notch. The ONLY negative gripe I have with Webb is the college admissions staff and their deceiving system that is inherently unequal. They claim to use a system based on "fit," but instead cater to a practice reliant upon getting as many seniors into 10% of colleges as they can. Telling seniors to not apply to a certain school by claiming lack of "fit," when in reality, they want to cut down competition and cater to their quota.... Read 88 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 404

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.19 out of 5  99 reviews

Senior: As a current senior, I have loved my time at Chadwick School. The teachers are incredible; they are always willing to meet with students outside of class time to go over content and improve the student's academic skills. The athletics department is fantastic because anyone can join any sport. It provides a great opportunity to expand your comfort zone, experience team camaraderie, and play against other teams. The campus is beautiful because of all the trees and green areas and everyone on campus is extremely friendly. The cafeteria has wonderful food - from sushi, to omlette bars, to ice cream bars, etc. Outdoor education trips have been the highlight of my Chadwick time because you go backpacking with a group of 12 students for a week and experience the outdoors. It is great for bonding and appreciating nature. I have met my closest friends here, and I am so thankful for every dance, class, and event I've attend through this school! Love this campus more than anything!... Read 99 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 867

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• North Hollywood, CA•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.46 out of 5  54 reviews

Senior: Oakwood School provides an excellent education that shapes the entire student. The teacher-student relationships at Oakwood are incredible, as teachers prioritize their students' educational experience and personal growth over anything else. Academically, courses at Oakwood are rigorous and competitive but also supportive and collaborative. I feel my Oakwood education has more than prepared me for college. Oakwood creates a strong sense of community and belonging through many extra-curricular activities, arts programs, and athletic teams. The athletic department is wonderful, building competitive, kind, and passionate athletes. The excellent facilities and talented coaching staff are big pluses too. I would recommend an Oakwood education to anyone looking for an inclusive community where they can be challenged academically and develop a sense of identity inside and outside of the classroom.... Read 54 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 824

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Chatsworth, CA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.56 out of 5  102 reviews

Parent: We have had an amazing experience at Sierra Canyon. Our son is a student-athlete. Academics are very important to him. He finished his senior year with a 4.4 GPA while playing on one of the top football programs in the country with some of the best coaches. That is not possible without the support of amazing teachers that keep the kids engaged. Sierra Canyon's college counseling is phenomenal as well. We have two older sons that graduated from one of the best Catholic schools in the area, but the counseling is virtually non-existent. We now know the difference. Sierra Canyon was a great fit for our youngest. My only regret is not moving him there sooner. He is now playing football for Texas Christian University and in their Neeley School of Business. I credit Sierra Canyon for that!... Read 102 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,154

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Irvine, CA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.45 out of 5  185 reviews

Parent: TVT was tremendously supportive and welcoming as my son transitioned from another school. On the first day, I received an email with a picture of my smiling son and a brief note telling me he's doing great. From that day forward, I can't say enough wonderful things about the administrators, faculty, and all the great school events that brought families onto campus to witness firsthand how our children are learning and growing. My son would tell me he loved his teachers because they were kind and they challenged him every day in all his subjects. Besides math, his other favorite subject is learning Hebrew! They make learning fun! He made new friends quickly and they support each other wholeheartedly. As I attended parent workshops and volunteering opportunities, I was impressed with the advanced curriculum but more importantly, their focus on building great character, addressing the student's emotional needs, and providing a well rounded support system. TVT far exceeded my expectations!... Read 185 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 802

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Los Angeles, CA•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.22 out of 5  88 reviews

Sophomore: I love Brentwood! It has opportunities to thrive in whatever way works for you. If you are an athlete, you can play your sport. If you are an artist, you can create masterpieces. If you’re a debater, like me, you can go debate. Every person is able to find the path that works for them. Not only can students thrive individually, Brentwood creates a strong sense of community. Students and faculty alike always cheer each other on. We have awesome community events from September Splash to weekly football games to keep us all connected.... Read 88 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 996

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Anaheim, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.59 out of 5  109 reviews

Middle school student: I am constantly amazed by my children's abilities and accomplishments. Fairmont Preparatory Academy was a fantastic experience for both of us. I wholeheartedly endorse and recommend this institution for your children. Make the right choice and choose Fairmont Preparatory Academy.... Read 109 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 456

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Los Angeles, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.32 out of 5  120 reviews

Parent: My daughter has completed her Freshman year at Marymount and I can't express enough how incredible the year was for her. Socially she made many new friends, who all have different interests, personalities, and goals. The young woman at Marymount really support one another and encourage each other to try new things. Academically, the faculty is extremely attentive to the students and work with them if they need extra help or explanations. Also, Marymount makes sure the students are on track for the college admissions process. They really get to know the students and help guide them every step of the way. I love the events they offer such as the Father/daughter dance, Mother/daughter brunch, and the Father's BBQ on campus. These types of events really help the parents get to know one another and spend time with their daughter's friends. If you have a daughter who is looking for a high school in the future, I highly recommend you take a look at Marymount!... Read 120 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 322

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Santa Monica, CA•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.51 out of 5  49 reviews

Senior: Crossroads is a well-resourced, progressive school, with many unique elements such as its non-traditional campus setting and community-oriented engagement opportunities. As a PWI (predominantly white institution) it still struggles with representation and support for minorities on campus but they are earnestly working to change that. Just this year (2022) they hired its first female head of school (who is also black) in its 50-year career.... Read 49 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,174

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Fullerton Joint Union High School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.08 out of 5  963 reviews

Senior: I have loved my time at Troy High School these past four years. Even though my sophomore year was Covid, my school has prepared me for everything I can imagine college will possibly be. I have great relationships with my teachers, they are truly in my corner and encouraging me to dream so much farther than I ever was when I started freshman year. I feel challenged in what I am learning but excited about what it to come. and I am a little restless, just ready to get going for what is next after high school. I think my time at Troy really got me ready for that! Troy has been so much fun with clubs and my soccer team and kept things balanced while keeping school going and life got busy. My favorite each year is the halloween rally when our sports teams dance and the pink game each year. Our student body takes over! I am definitely ready for the next chapter of life to start, but I will always love my time in highschool- go warriors!... Read 963 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,614

• Student-teacher ratio 23:1

• San Juan Capistrano, CA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.1 out of 5  58 reviews

Parent: From the moment I walked through the campus , I was impressed with the warm and welcoming atmosphere. The staff and teachers were friendly and approachable, and the students seemed happy and engaged in their learning. The facilities are top-notch. The classrooms are spacious, clean, and equipped with the latest technology to enhance the learning experience. The school also has a well-stocked library, science and computer labs, a gymnasium, and outdoor sports fields. One of the things I appreciate most about SMES is their commitment to student well-being. The school offers a range of programs and services to support the mental health and emotional well-being of its students, including counseling services, and extracurricular activities that promote physical activity and social connection.... Read 58 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,250

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Long Beach Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.06 out of 5  489 reviews

Parent: After sending our son for a year, we are happy to tell that the school is filled with wonderful people. CAMS students are kind, friendly, supporting each other across grades, and caring younger students very well. Parents are very nice and supportive, too. Most teachers have decent backgrounds/careers. It's easy to communicate with teachers and school staffs. Minimal donation/volunteer requests. The school is for students like Engineering, Computer Science, or Bio-technology. Required courses include manufacturing with CNC machines & industrial 3D printers, computer programming, CAD designing, and college level Bio-tech curriculum. Located on CSUDH campus, junior/senior students may take the college classes at reasonable cost. More than 50 clubs to choose from. 1/5 students join FRC or VEX Robotics teams. While sports teams are limited, good players compete at tournaments. Dancing teams actively perform at various school events. A lot of fun and exciting opportunities at CAMS!... Read 489 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 669

• Student-teacher ratio 27:1

• Santa Ana, CA•

• Public School•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 4.16 out of 5  593 reviews

Freshman: I believe that the Orange County School of the Arts (OCSA) is an excellent school. I am in my 3rd year at this school, as a freshman, and there are so many art opportunities for students wanting to pursue any type of art, as well as many academic opportunities such as a vast selection of clubs, honors societies, and volunteering activities. Students make so many great connections in their art field and can make friends with people they are much closer with, due to overlapping passions. Many of the arts teachers are actively working in their fields making them great resources! Overall, OCSA is a great option for any student passionate about art and curious about learning more about art! Although there are some problems with OCSA including safety because of the location, academic teachers because some are not sufficient in teaching, as well as the food since some options can be unhealthy and the menu does not get switched out daily, OCSA has a great positive community that accepts all!... Read 593 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,277

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• Riverside Unified School District, CA•

• 5-12

• •
  Rating 4.27 out of 5  55 reviews

Sophomore: My experience with Riverside STEM Academy has been very rigorous and inspiring so far. Attending since 5th grade, the teachers are very supportive, ensuring your success through very thorough explanations whenever you ask a question. Additionally, though the work is very demanding and rigorous, there is always the feeling of self-satisfaction in getting a project done. As we are partnered with UCR, research and extracurricular activities, especially during the summer are plentiful and recommended. A close-knit community, Riverside STEM Academy is a place for those wishing to pursue a better future for themselves and their family. It is a place that unless you are willing to put 100%, you will not enjoy it.... Read 55 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 655

• Student-teacher ratio —

• Sherman Oaks, CA•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 3.94 out of 5  50 reviews

Works Here: Buckley has an incredible community of faculty, students, alumni, and parents. I've worked at the school for several years now and have been so impressed by the caliber of my colleagues and students. In particular, I appreciate how our smaller size encourages students to take on more challenges; my students take rigorous courses while also participating in sports, playing an instrument, writing for the newspaper, and anything else they're interested in trying. The campus is also beautiful, situated in the mountains -- there is even a nature trail off the field! The school has incredible, state-of-the-art facilities for arts, tech, athletics, and more.... Read 50 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 830

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• El Segundo, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.24 out of 5  111 reviews

Parent: There is something for everyone at this school! There is an expansive list of clubs for every student's interest. The academics are very strong but the school also caters equally to kids who have an interest in the fine and performing arts. The school encourages progressive thinking, open-mindedness and self-discovery while also helping guide students toward colleges and careers that will make them happy in the long run. The school wants students to think beyond the here and now. The math curriculum is innovative and combines the best math programs from schools around the world. The school lives up to its motto - "there is a better way to do high school."... Read 111 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 272

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Los Angeles, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.62 out of 5  213 reviews

Senior: As a current senior at Loyola, I am happy to be attending this school. I have witnessed myself grow into a better person both academically and personally thanks to the wonderful support system of faculty, staff, and other students. While the curriculum itself is challenging, teachers and school counselors are willing to help students perform at their greatest potential. On top of this, the school involves itself with the community through the various clubs and extracurricular activities found throughout campus. Joining these helped me meet new people and make lifelong connections along the way, allowing for a very enjoyable and welcoming experience of my stay here.... Read 213 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,270

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• Los Angeles, CA•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.23 out of 5  128 reviews

Alum: As a recent alum, I can attest that if I ever have a daughter, I will most certainly be enrolling her at Archer. I cannot express my gratitude enough towards this community, the academics, and all the unique programs that continue to shock other students at my university when I talk about them. I’ll always remember the courtyard and the dinning hall on a warm spring day, the sounds of violins and choirs echoing around the campus, girls engrossed in philosophical debates, and laughter at every turn. I attend a college with an 8% acceptance rate as of 2023 and can confidently say that I was extremely over-prepared socially and academically when I on campus for my first day. I feel infinitely blessed to have had enjoyed 6 years at the most wonderful liberal-arts, girl’s school in the country.... Read 128 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 496

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1