2023 Best Schools in Los Angeles

• 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

• 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

• Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.2 out of 5  98 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 98 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

• 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

• 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

• 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  212 reviews

Parent: Loyola High School is an exceptional college-preparatory high school that truly supports its students in every way! It offers a rigorous education that will not only prepare you for college, but also for real life. The school produces scholarly men of faith, service and leadership. Its focus on cura personalis is exemplary. Everything about this school is top notch!... Read 212 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

• La Canada Flintridge, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.27 out of 5  169 reviews

Junior: I love Flintridge Sacred Heart because of the community. Everyone is so supportive and encouraging. I can be friends with anyone and I feel comfortable being myself. Everyone has so much school spirit and love for the school, that it makes events super fun. Everyone participates in everything! Teachers are also super helpful. They are there early in the morning and late at night. They all want to ensure that we succeed in high school. The teachers are always available to help when needed. They show so much support through arts and sports as well by showing up to events. As a whole, the community is outstanding at Flintridge Sacred Heart. I also feel like I am being prepped very well for college. Everyone is rooting for everyone's success!... Read 169 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 367

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Studio City, CA•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.12 out of 5  141 reviews

Junior: Great school. Hands down one of the best schools in the state - Coolest, kindest, and most well rounded kids, best facilities, tight-knit community, fantastic teachers and campus, and the best opportunities to excel in whatever you're interested in - kids here are so talented! They really focus on creating kind, well rounded, successful, and well educated kids. It's a really special school. Wide variety of students of all different interests and backgrounds. Had such an amazing school experience here. The only academic school I've been in that isn't stressy and allows you to still have a good time whilst you're in kid. If you are lucky enough to go there don't take it for granted! - I can't imagine a better school :)... Read 141 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,148

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Calabasas, CA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.07 out of 5  122 reviews

Senior: Viewpoint School is an amazing school! During my Freshman year, they made workshops and took us on field trips which helped me create friendships. The curriculum is massive, so it really allows students to explore what they want to pursue in life from an early age. The sports program is amazing; we achieve new accolades each year, even though we are in one of the most competitive leagues in the country!... Read 122 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,215

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Pasadena, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.94 out of 5  114 reviews

Parent: Mayfield Senior School provides a rigorous college preparatory education in a Catholic environment. Faculty are top quality professionals with impressive backgrounds who balance academic rigor with a nurturing and can-do mindset. The Head of School and her leadership team are dedicated to the mission Action Not Words and educational philosophy that encourages the young men to uncover gifts and talents. Mayfield is a treasure!... Read 114 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 333

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Los Angeles, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.15 out of 5  26 reviews

Junior: YULA is a great modern-orthodox school. They have wonderful teachers and really support student growth. Despite this, I feel as though they could improve their dedication to extracurriculars that are not athletic.... Read 26 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 170

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Westlake Village, CA•

• Private School•

• 4-12

• •
  Rating 4.34 out of 5  268 reviews

Senior: Oaks Christian is an excellent school academically, particularly in the English and Math departments. It has a breadth of resources like the IDEA lab (contains woodworking, metalworking, and 3D-printing machinery) and an expansive variety of elective choices. The teachers are quite invested in each student, and there is generally respect given both ways. The student body is a little friendlier and "tamer" than I imagine the average high school; though, every school is different of course and I can only reference my own experiences. In terms of diversity, the school has international dorms and there's a large number of students from the East. However, the school attracts a number of wealthy families and seems to value that reputation more than is healthy. Tuition is high and has been increasing, though they offer a good deal of aid as well. In terms of administration, it is generally good; though, a number of good, long-standing teachers have left/been released which is saddening.... Read 268 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,620

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Los Angeles, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  15 reviews

Sophomore: I love being a student at Le Lycee Francais de Los Angeles high school. I am not a native French speaker, yet I have excelled with the individualized attention and encouragement I have received from all my teachers and faculty. The small class sizes encourage team work, and my fellow classmates are not in competition with one another, but seek to empower each other instead. We have a well rounded curriculum, encouraging the arts, music, sports, and STEM courses. I have also found that as an American learning about European history, I have gained an important tool to understanding what is happening in the world today.... Read 15 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 148

• Student-teacher ratio 3:1

• San Marino, CA•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 3.25 out of 5  55 reviews

Alum: Southwestern Academy is a peculiar place to have attended and graduated from when I was a student. It is a great small private school that offers a safe learning environment and pushed students to reach a better potential. I learned how to write and found a new love for literature that I had not had before. Furthermore, the teachers had the capacity and time to have one-on-one time with students, which was great for me because I am terrible at math. The small school size allowed me to be able to participate in sports, such as volleyball and basketball as well as the high school drama productions. Lastly, it was easy to make connections with other students because it was a tight community. There were friends that I had made throughout the years that are from across the world and friends that I made that are close by in the same city. Southwestern Academy provided great opportunities for participation and to be better prepared for the future, while making great connections and friends.... Read 55 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 75

• Student-teacher ratio 4:1

• Los Angeles, CA•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.78 out of 5  59 reviews

Freshman: New Covenant Academy provided a family like educational environment which enabled my daughter to spend her sensitive teenage years safely and happily, thanks to the caring and encouraging teachers. Small numbers of student body allows teachers to pay undivided attention to each student. NCA also focuses on students' academic achievements that led to my daughter's acceptance to NYU! Most importantly, my daughter feels at home at school and has been spending her precious 4 years full of enjoyments and happiness! Choosing NCA for my daughter was my best choice!... Read 59 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 174

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1