Skip to Main Content

2019 Most Diverse Public High Schools in the New York City AreaAbout this List

Explore the most diverse public high schools serving your area. Ranking based on ethnic diversity statistics from the U.S. Department of Education and student and parent reviews of ethnic, economic, and cultural diversity. Read more on how this ranking was calculated.

1 – 25 of 1,128
Most Diverse
1,128 results

  1. Edward R. Murrow High School

    • New York City Geographic District No. 21, NY
    • 8-12
    • 743
    1 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area

    Senior: Murrow is very diverse in many things, such as people, talents, academics, clubs, and sport! My experience at Murrow is very fun every day. I have friends from different backgrounds, and it's interesting to learn about them! What I love about Murrow is that there are so many types of classes. English class is not just a boring English literature class, but a class involved with some themes. For example, I took Psychology in Literature as my English class which is so fun! Murrow has many talented people in art, music, and theater. Although Murrow does not have great academics like other top-ranked schools, the program at Murrow offers students to try different fields before going to college. Most schools have just one normal boring gym class, but Murrow offers different types of sports! Students get to pick their gym class; pick yoga and you take the class for the entire semester. As an art student, I can tell that the art program is great and intense b/c it takes you to Cooper Union!
    Read 743 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Diversity
    • 3,812 Students
    • 20:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  2. Millennium Brooklyn High School

    • New York City Geographic District No. 15, NY
    • 8-12
    • 92
    2 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area

    Senior: I genuinely love being a student at MBHS. I cannot imagine being anywhere else because I believe that I've found my niche here. I've met so many wonderful people that I get to call friends and the support system here for students is wonderful. The teachers are caring and easy to talk to. At Millennium Brooklyn, I've gotten the chance to do research, intern, take AP classes, and do large presentations. The school is smaller than many high schools in NYC and we have really strong academics that challenge students to do their best. The only bad thing I can think of is that we are kind of cramped in the hall ways but I really do love MBHS. Go Phoenix!
    Read 92 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Diversity
    • 621 Students
    • 11:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  3. The Brooklyn Latin School

    • New York City Geographic District No. 14, NY
    • 9-12
    • 203
    3 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area

    Senior: This is the smallest specialized high school with around 900 students total. If you like intimacy between teachers and your pupils this is definitely the school for you. However, this school focuses on public speaking including classwide seminars and declamations. These assessments teach you the skills to form unique, persuasive and clear arguments. If you want to be a political figure or lawyer I would recommend this school. If you are really shy or have stage fright this is not a good school for you to attend. This school participates in the International Baccalaureate program. In other schools families would have to pay around 1200 dollars for their children to participate in the program, however, this school pays for each student's participation. This causes the school to have disadvantages. Most of the school's funding goes towards the students' education, and as a result heating, air conditioning and the overall maintenance of the building is poor.
    Read 203 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Diversity
    • 666 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes
  4. Sponsored

    Foxcroft Academy

    • Private School
    • Dover Foxcroft, ME
    • 9-12
    • 100

    Alum: Definitely the best school in the area for academics, resources and diversity, all of which are thanks to the boarding students. Kids from the area are blessed to able to attend a school that gets benefits from having paying students. There are many excellent teachers, but also quite a few who are inexperienced, you just have to know which teachers to shoot for. My least favorite thing was that there is annoying push for teachers to use technology whether or not it is needed. Also small town issues can be unpleasant at times, but are unavoidable.
    Read 100 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 416 Students
    • 11:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  5. Dr. Ronald E. McNair Academic High School

    • Jersey City Public Schools, NJ
    • 9-12
    • 230
    4 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area

    Senior: I love the diversity and unique culture you can find here at McNair! It's hard to find that type of experience elsewhere. However, we are severely underfunded. The bathroom facilities never work, the door handles break off and there are multiple classrooms where the paint job is unfinished or even peeling off but the district does nothing to help.
    Read 230 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Diversity
    • 710 Students
    • 14:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  6. County Prep High School

    • Public School
    • Jersey City, NJ
    • 9-12
    • 212
    5 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area

    Sophomore: County Prep HS is a place of opportunity. Here you can explore various interests, such as theatre, music production, culinary, medical science, psychology, business, you name it! This school is very lively and big on diversity, our lenient dress code let's us dress in whatever you want, however you want (the food is pretty delicious too). You will always find a teacher that you can relate to, I have several that I look up to, each one is different in both their personality and their efficient ways of teaching. Our guidance counselors AND school therapists are good resources if you have any questions or doubts, because everyone here just wants to see you succeed, and will be helpful as long as you are willing to put in the effort as well. Overall, I couldn’t find myself in a school better than County Prep, because of the creative leg room they give you and for the opportunities they offer! If you’re a NJ student who is very ambitious and wants to reach for the stars, consider us!
    Read 212 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Diversity
    • 782 Students
    • 9:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  7. Midwood High School at Brooklyn College

    • New York City Geographic District No. 22, NY
    • 9-12
    • 1,141
    6 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area

    Senior: Midwood is incredibly diverse with a student body that is incomparable to other public schools!
     It's a community within a school of over 4,000 students (currently) that are all connected with each other despite the school's size.
    I'm a senior now, And this is the best thing I have to say about Midwood High School in my 4 years of attendance. However, it's size can at times be a hindrance.
    For that reason, I think Midwood High School could increase their staff so more students can receive help, And the school oficals aren't spread thin.
    I also feel that Midwood could improve its college readiness because I felt that I relied on too many outside sources for help in the college process. They don't have the time to constantly walk with us through the process, but sometimes us students needed that support.
    Otherwise, Midwood is a great institution for any kid.
    Read 1,141 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Diversity
    • 3,998 Students
    • 24:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  10. Manhattan Hunter Science High School

    • New York City Geographic District No. 3, NY
    • 9-12
    • 150
    7 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area

    Alum: My experience at Manhattan Hunter Science Highschool was amazing. The low number of students in the school made it possible for class sizes to be small and intimate, relationships with teachers and among students were genuine. Everyone in the school knew each other, all the teachers and staff knew me by name! There were many clubs available, I myself participated in a culinary club and teacher club. Thanks to this school being an early college school, I am pursuing my education at Hunter College.
    Read 150 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Diversity
    • 446 Students
    • 18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  11. North Brunswick Township High School

    • North Brunswick Township Public Schools, NJ
    • 9-12
    • 298
    8 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area

    Junior: North Brunswick Township High School is flourishing with many cultures. The student body is comprised of 25% Asian, 25% Hispanic, 25% African American, and 25% white students. It reflects the idea of America being a melting pot. However, many minorites in the North Brunswick public school systems tend to struggle because almost all of the teachers are white, leaving the students with no one to relate to. While the school’s resources and facilities are definitely something to brag about, the inclusion of many students by their teachers could use some growth and development.
    Read 298 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Diversity
    • 1,751 Students
    • 12:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  12. Metropolitan Expeditionary Learning School

    • New York City Geographic District No. 28, NY
    • 6-12
    • 59
    9 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area

    Senior: The Metropolitan Expeditionary Learning School is a college-bound preparatory school that hosts grades 6-12. The diversity in the high school portion is greater than in the middle school part, but I would say they are almost equivalent. The education is clearly driven to promote a seamless passage into college life after high school, but the administration tries harder to provide this experience to people who have shown higher success rates through grades and extracurriculars. There is a uniform at the school which many students do not like, but it somewhat helps bullying and discrimination against other students. The courses that are required make it almost impossible not to graduate if every or most classes are passed throughout one's high school career. They are lacking in the clubs and activities department as they do not have a wide variety of options due to a lack of budget.
    Read 59 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Diversity
    • 827 Students
    • 13:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  14. NYC iSchool

    • New York City Geographic District No. 2, NY
    • 9-12
    • 149
    10 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area

    Senior: Incredibly innovative high school. Perfect population size- close community, but you're often meeting new people or getting closer to acquaintances. The teachers are incredible! So dedicated, they listen to the students, and they put a lot of effort into creating engaging and impact classes. Our strongest departments are English and Science. Art and PE departments could be improved. The college office is one of the best of any high school I've seen, so helpful! Diversity isn't outstanding but the administration is making a huge effort to reach more prospective students of color. There are a lot of stairs but its worth it. I've had an amazing experience, I highly recommend it.
    Read 149 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Diversity
    • 458 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  15. Franklin High School

    • Franklin Township Public Schools, NJ
    • 9-12
    • 596
    11 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area

    Senior: My high school experience so far has been amazing. The school is fairly large, holding 2,000+ kids. My freshman year it was a lot to grasp, especially being with three other grades of kids who much older than me. Ages would range from 13-19, which was very intimidating. The school in itself was very nice, the beautification as the years went on only got better. The staff and administration team are beyond helpful. Everyone is looking out for you and wants the best for you. The high school offers such a wide variety of classes, sports, activities, clubs, and electives. The list is endless, whatever you are interested in there's something for you at Franklin(there are a few exceptions but you get the point). Diversity is 6/5 stars! It is a great place to get an education.
    Read 596 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Diversity
    • 2,149 Students
    • 12:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  16. Forest Hills High School

    • New York City Geographic District No. 28, NY
    • 8-12
    • 726
    12 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area

    Senior: Forest Hills High school is an excellent school that educates over 4,000 students annually. Regardless of the lack of funding, and the disproportional student to faculty ratio, Forest Hills High School manages to educate, and support all of their students efficiently on a daily basis. The faculty of the school do an excellent job managing all of the and work hard to fulfill their duties. The students also do a remarkable job pertaining to their education, excelling in core, challenging (ex: AP and honors classes), and contemporary classes (ex: riding and writing, African dancing). Unfortunately, there is a lack of guidance as only basic information is presented in hallway bulletin boards, but do not provide detailed information. Regardless, students still excel in extracurricular activities. Despite lack of funding,and athletic spaces, sports teams, research, performing arts, and law programs are one of the best in the city, thanks to the hard work of the students and faculty.
    Read 726 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Diversity
    • 3,838 Students
    • 21:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  19. High School Math Science & Engineering at The City College of New York (CCNY)

    • New York City Geographic District No. 5, NY
    • 9-12
    • 153
    13 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area

    Senior: After spending almost 4 years as a student in this school, I believe it was the best choice I've ever made. I originally applied to HSMSE because they had an anime club. But after I came to the school, and left the anime club only to pop in every now and then, I found so much more. The teachers are all certified in their concentrations, real engineers walk the hallways, and college professors lecture about Hemingway in front of my desk. Since it's a small school, I'm familiar with almost every person in the school, often forgetting who is in what grade. Being on a college campus also has its perks. We have access to the college libraries for reports, lab facilities, and a quad to enjoy lunch with friends. The guidance counselors know us by name and can recommend various colleges based on our interests and career aspirations. I mean, we aren't rated third best in New York City for nothing!
    Read 153 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Diversity
    • 476 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  20. Sewanhaka High School

    • Sewanhaka Central High School District, NY
    • 7-12
    • 185
    14 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area

    Senior: Sewanhaka has a very diverse environment, and encourages kids to behave responsibly. It contains a lot of positive and uplifting teachers, and a variety of clubs and activities to participate in. The school building itself, however, is not very comfortable to be in at times, especially when the weather is too hot!
    Read 185 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Diversity
    • 1,627 Students
    • 17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  21. Bloomfield High School

    • Bloomfield Board of Education, NJ
    • 9-12
    • 272
    15 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area

    Alum: Some teachers care about the future and integrity of their students. Some others do not really use methods to make students involved with the subject. Counselors and directive personnel are not really present with everyone in the school. ESL students might seem marginalized in the school not only by students but also by staff (personal experience). Regardless, there are many others who truly care about the students and make the most of their classes to not only teach about their subject, but also to teach students important lessons about life in general. Overall, the school could try to emphasize getting more involved with students and create a stronger community
    Read 272 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Diversity
    • 1,942 Students
    • 12:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  22. Bard High School Early College Queens

    • New York City Geographic District No. 24, NY
    • 9-12
    • 307
    16 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area

    Alum: Bard Queens stretched me academically to explore topics I had never learned about before in an engaging, thought-provoking environment that encouraged student discussion and seminar style teaching. The humanities program at BHSECQ is extremely good with amazing professors who are passionate about their classes. Science classes are also very strong at BHSECQ. They teach material that goes beyond what is taught in typical AP and IB classes at other NYC high schools. In addition, the Associates Degree received from Bard College is incredibly useful and can be transferred at your next institution. Despite the rigorous academic environment at Bard, the community is very close knit, encouraging strong relationships between professors and students as well as student to student. BHSECQ is overall a very inclusive, nurturing institution that will teach you life skills and give you many connections.
    Read 307 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Diversity
    • 600 Students
    • 18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  23. Susan E. Wagner High School

    • New York City Geographic District No. 31, NY
    • 9-12
    • 489
    17 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area

    Sophomore: Wagner high school is a place where ur child can learn a lot and the academy’s they are amazing. All the teachers are very nice, and help you understand a topic if your having trouble with it. Wagner has the best sport teams out of every high school in Staten Island. The students at Wagner high school come out to be very successful in the future, some teachers there were even students at Susan E Wagner high school once!
    Read 489 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Diversity
    • 3,276 Students
    • 21:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  26. Brien McMahon High School

    • Norwalk School District, CT
    • 9-12
    • 370
    18 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area

    Senior: My past four years at Brien McMahon High School has been a remarkable institute that has given me the resources to expand upon my knowledge. The classes and faculty really challenge you to become the best student possible. The faculty is a big support system and if you are ever struggling they gladly step in to assist you in anyway. There are also many other ways for you to find yourself with a support system, that being the many clubs the school has to offer like Peer Mediation, Peer Mentoring and more! Brien McMahon is also the most diverse high school in Connecticut which speaks volumes to our unique character.
    Read 370 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Diversity
    • 1,663 Students
    • 13:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  27. John F. Kennedy Memorial High School

    • Woodbridge Township School District, NJ
    • 9-12
    • 145
    19 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area

    Junior: The school is so ethnically diverse and the classes are challenging but fun! You always learn new things about the different cultures. Most people are Asian (i.e. South Asian), but there are also many Dominicans and other Hispanic peoples, White people, and even a couple of Arab peoples. White people beware though, racism is rampid since most people don't understand that you can be racist to whites. Spanish class is used all through out the day no matter your ethnicity. Most students take AP or college level classes and JFKMHS is rated #1 in the district. Sports isn't as good for the boys, but the girls kill it in every sport.
    Read 145 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Diversity
    • 1,319 Students
    • 12:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  28. Frank Sinatra School of the Arts High School

    • New York City Geographic District No. 30, NY
    • 9-12
    • 272
    20 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area

    Senior: I love my high school, FSSA, because of all the talented students and teachers who make this school an exceptional place to study the arts. I am currently a dance major and my dance teachers are incredible; they expect the best from their students and always make sure that they achieve their highest potential. Additionally, the shows featured at my school are wonderfully acted and performed - the singing, dancing, acting and instrumental performances are top-notch, and, dare I say, can rival Broadway anytime!
    Read 272 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Diversity
    • 830 Students
    • 18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  29. Brooklyn International High School at Waters Edge

    • New York City Geographic District No. 13, NY
    • 9-12
    • 44
    21 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area

    Alum: I graduated in 2013 and went to SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY. I never regret going to BIHS. Teachers and staffs here were so nice and provided resources as many as possible that you need, and they also have connections with different school, programs, and organizations. They also helped you to APPLY FOR COLLEGE and FINANCIAL AID which will NEVER HAPPENS IN OTHER SCHOOLS.

    It was extremely helpful for an immigrant who doesn't have a family, connections, experiences in U.S. Class size is small so you can have enough attention from teachers and really focus on your learning. School activities were very fun as well. Overall, you get all the resources you need.

    If you study hard, have good GPA, and attended activities, it will not be a problem to go to Top 60 universities.
    Read 44 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Diversity
    • 358 Students
    • 17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  30. West Orange High School

    • West Orange Public Schools, NJ
    • 9-12
    • 345
    22 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area

    Senior: I have been attending West Orange High School for four years.The administration is very strict and stress the rules for our safety.Our programs after school are phenomenal, students are involved with the sports, theater, music, political, and entertainment programs. Academically there are an abundant amount of classes to take along with multiple advance classes.West Orange is very diverse, the families are very involved in all activities taking place in and outside the school. The safety of our students are a priority, all doors in our school have a ID swipe to get in, along with all doors have alarms from the inside, if opened it will be activated. Within the school are eight security guards and a police officer.At all times students, visitors and facility wear Ids and if not will be guided to security for one or exited from the building.West Orange High School are a family of Mountaineers!
    Read 345 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Diversity
    • 1,975 Students
    • 11:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes
  31. Review Your School

  32. High Tech High School

    • Public School
    • N Bergen, NJ
    • 9-12
    • 257
    23 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area

    Senior: High Tech High School is a magnet school that ensures a balance of freedom and discipline of students. The teachers are intelligent, approachable, and are helpful in times of need. They are extremely qualified and teach out of passion. All classes at High Tech are honors and/or AP. Furthermore, students are sure to be presented with many diverse opportunities that fit their interests. Through a "major" system (in which students have the choice to select their major (science, performing arts, architectures/engineering), students have the ability to prepare themselves for college and obtain a prospect on the different career paths in life.
    Read 257 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Diversity
    • 940 Students
    • 12:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  33. Scholars' Academy

    • New York City Geographic District No. 27, NY
    • 6-12
    • 247
    24 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area

    Senior: The Scholars' Academy is an extremely accelerated school, constantly pushing its students to go above and beyond in all areas. The school offers standards that are above other schools, with a passing grade of an 85 overall. The school is also very involved with extracurriculars that encourage students to help in their community. This school also includes some of the top sports teams, encouraging students to be well rounded. Throughout my time at The Scholars' Academy I have been constantly provided with opportunities to prepare for college including workshops, college visits, and meetings with my counselor. The Scholars' Academy has been a great help in preparing me for the future.
    Read 247 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Diversity
    • 1,306 Students
    • 22:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  34. Columbia Secondary School

    • New York City Geographic District No. 5, NY
    • 6-12
    • 97
    25 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area

    Senior: I went to this school for seven years (middle school and high school) and I can say for sure that they prepared me for college. Their curriculum is STEM heavy, with engineering (with computer science), science, math, and technology all four years. The only thing I have to say is that their music and art curriculum is a little lacking. But there are still art opportunities! There is a musical production every year that takes a whole semester to prepare for. After school there are a number of clubs and electives for every interest (I enjoyed Video Game Club!). We even have a garden, complete with live chickens! College preparedness begins near the end of your Junior year; I was so ready that I had my college application finished before November, thanks to the college counselors. The teachers are great here, open for help (many of them have office hours). The workload might be tough at first, but it's nothing that students can handle. I will miss the school when I leave for college.
    Read 97 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Diversity
    • 668 Students
    • 17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes
  35. Sponsored

    The IDEAL School of Manhattan

    • Private School
    • New York, NY
    • K-12
    • NG
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 193 Students
    • 3:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes
  36. Sponsored

    Hoosac School

    • Private School
    • Hoosick, NY
    • 8-12
    • 232

    Parent: We transferred jr year from to Hoosac(specifically for their academic program and school spirit) and they made the transition incredibly smooth & pleasant! My daughter came out of her shell at Hoosac and was filled with school pride for her school.More importantly, I have told many parent since the switch I wish I’d done it earlier because their academic program is unparalleled! They start in Jr High with college prep, SAT’s and preparing our kids to become adults. What a student completes in on year at other high schools, they complete in one semester. That notion scared us at first but, again, the teachers there made it easy for her/us! The teachers, counselors and staff are always caring, accessible and the communication is top notch!
    I am incredibly grateful we made the switch!
    Read 232 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 130 Students
    • 6:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes
  • 1 of 46