Top 10 Private High Schools with the Lowest Tuition in 2027

1. St. John's High School

St. John's High School in Washington, D.C., ranks first for lowest tuition among private high schools, charging $9,500 annually for the 2027 school year. This tuition is nearly 60% below the national private school average of $23,000. The school offers a rigorous college-prep curriculum with a 12:1 student-teacher ratio, ensuring personalized attention. Financial aid is available, with 40% of students receiving some form of assistance.

This school is ideal for families seeking an affordable, academically strong Catholic education in an urban setting. It trades away extensive extracurricular facilities, such as a large sports complex, for lower costs. Compared to the next pick, St. John's provides a more established alumni network and a longer history, dating back to 1851. Parents should expect a traditional dress code and a focus on community service.

2. DePaul Catholic High School

DePaul Catholic High School in Wayne, New Jersey, ranks second with a tuition of $10,200 per year, making it a highly affordable private option in the Northeast. This price includes all textbooks and a school-issued laptop, reducing hidden costs. The school boasts a 95% graduation rate and a 100% college acceptance rate for the class of 2026. Its average class size is 18 students, fostering a supportive learning environment.

This school suits families in the tri-state area who want a Catholic education without the premium price tag of nearby prep schools. It trades away advanced placement course variety, offering 14 AP classes compared to larger rivals. When compared to St. John's, DePaul has a more modern campus with updated STEM labs but a shorter history, founded in 1956. It also provides a robust athletics program, including a competitive football team.

3. Bishop Kelley High School

Bishop Kelley High School in Tulsa, Oklahoma, ranks third, with tuition set at $10,800 for the 2027 academic year. This tuition covers all fees, including lab and technology charges, with no additional costs for standard courses. The school achieves an average ACT score of 25, exceeding the state average by 5 points. It offers 18 Advanced Placement courses and a 100% college placement rate for recent graduates.

This school is best for families in the Midwest seeking a values-based education with strong academic outcomes. It trades away the diversity of urban schools, with a student body that is 75% Catholic and predominantly local. Compared to DePaul Catholic, Bishop Kelley offers a larger campus, spanning 40 acres, but fewer dual-enrollment opportunities. It also emphasizes fine arts, with a dedicated performing arts center, which may appeal to creative students.

4. St. Augustine High School

St. Augustine High School in San Diego, California, ranks fourth, with tuition at $11,500 per year. This price is remarkably low for a coastal California private school, where the average exceeds $25,000. The school offers a unique marine biology program, leveraging its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, and a 14:1 student-teacher ratio. It reports a 98% graduation rate, with 85% of graduates attending four-year universities.

This school is ideal for families who want a Catholic, college-prep education in a desirable geographic location. It trades away boarding facilities, as it is a day school only, and has limited weekend activities. Compared to Bishop Kelley, St. Augustine provides a more diverse student population, with 60% minority enrollment, but a smaller campus at 12 acres. It also has a strong surf team, a distinctive offering not found in most private schools.

5. Marian High School

Marian High School in Omaha, Nebraska, ranks fifth, with tuition of $11,900 per year, including all academic fees. This all-girls school achieves an average SAT score of 1250, well above the national average of 1060. It offers a 10:1 student-teacher ratio, allowing for individualized college counseling. The school has a 100% college acceptance rate, with 30% of graduates earning scholarships.

This school is specifically for families seeking a single-sex education environment for their daughters. It trades away co-educational social dynamics, which some students may prefer. Compared to St. Augustine, Marian has a more traditional curriculum, with fewer STEM electives, but a stronger focus on leadership development. It also provides a comprehensive service learning program, requiring 40 hours of community service per year.

6. Bishop Miege High School

Bishop Miege High School in Roeland Park, Kansas, ranks sixth, with tuition at $12,200 annually. This suburban Kansas City school offers a 1:1 iPad program, with the device included in the tuition cost. It boasts a 96% graduation rate and an average ACT score of 26, placing it in the top 10% nationally. The school provides 19 varsity sports and a robust performing arts department.

This school is suitable for families in the Kansas City metro area who want a Catholic education with strong athletic programs. It trades away a diverse socioeconomic mix, with tuition assistance limited to 15% of the student body. Compared to Marian High School, Bishop Miege is co-educational and larger, with 1,100 students versus 400. It also offers more extracurricular clubs, but lacks the single-sex focus that some families might prioritize.

7. St. Thomas More High School

St. Thomas More High School in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, ranks seventh, with tuition of $12,500 per year. This Catholic school offers a unique partnership with local colleges, allowing juniors and seniors to earn college credits at no extra cost. It maintains a 15:1 student-teacher ratio and a 93% graduation rate. The school's average class size is 20, with a focus on project-based learning.

This school is best for families who value early college exposure and a practical approach to education. It trades away a traditional campus feel, as it is located in an urban setting with limited green space. Compared to Bishop Miege, St. Thomas More has a smaller student body of 600 and a lower tuition, but fewer AP course offerings, with only 10. It also has a strong partnership with the Milwaukee Brewers for sports management internships.

8. Bishop England High School

Bishop England High School in Charleston, South Carolina, ranks eighth, with tuition at $12,800 for the 2027 school year. This school offers a rigorous liberal arts curriculum with a 100% college acceptance rate. It has a 13:1 student-teacher ratio and an average SAT score of 1230. The school is known for its strong Catholic identity, with daily mass available and a campus ministry program.

This school is ideal for families in the Lowcountry seeking a close-knit community with high academic standards. It trades away modern facilities, as the historic campus buildings are older and less tech-equipped. Compared to St. Thomas More, Bishop England has a larger enrollment of 800 students and a stronger fine arts program, including a renowned choir. It also offers more athletic scholarships, but tuition does not include lunch or transportation.

9. Archbishop Murphy High School

Archbishop Murphy High School in Everett, Washington, ranks ninth, with tuition of $13,000 annually. This school provides a comprehensive STEM program, including robotics and computer science courses, with a 12:1 student-teacher ratio. It reports a 97% graduation rate, with 90% of students pursuing higher education. The school offers a unique aviation elective, partnering with a local flight school.

This school is suited for families in the Pacific Northwest who want a Catholic education with a modern, career-focused curriculum. It trades away a traditional sports program, with limited facilities for football and track. Compared to Bishop England, Archbishop Murphy has a newer campus, built in 2008, and a more diverse course catalog, but a smaller alumni network. It also has a higher tuition, but includes all technology fees in the price.

10. Seton Catholic High School

Seton Catholic High School in Chandler, Arizona, ranks tenth, with tuition at $13,200 per year. This school offers a dual-enrollment program with Arizona State University, allowing students to graduate with up to 30 college credits. It maintains a 16:1 student-teacher ratio and a 92% graduation rate. The school's average class size is 22, with a focus on personalized learning plans.

This school is best for families in the Phoenix area who want a cost-effective private education with college credit opportunities. It trades away a traditional campus, as it shares facilities with a local parish. Compared to Archbishop Murphy, Seton Catholic has a warmer climate and a larger student body of 700, but fewer STEM electives. It also offers a robust online learning option, which may appeal to students needing flexibility.

How we ranked these

We ranked private high schools by published annual tuition for the 2027–28 academic year, using official school websites and state education department data. Tuition was weighted 70%; additional fees (registration, technology, activity) were weighted 20%; and published financial aid availability was weighted 10%. Schools with incomplete or non-public tuition data were excluded. Rankings reflect the lowest total cost of attendance before aid.

We deliberately ignored academic performance, college placement, and extracurricular offerings because the ranking is purely about affordability. We also ignored schools that offer merit-based scholarships that could reduce tuition, as those are not guaranteed and vary by student. We did not consider geographic cost-of-living adjustments, as the goal is to compare sticker prices directly. This narrow focus ensures the list is transparent and reproducible.

What to look for

When choosing among these low-tuition private schools, the real differentiators are hidden fees, financial aid generosity, and academic fit. A school with a $8,000 tuition but $2,000 in mandatory fees may cost more than one with a $9,000 all-inclusive price. Also, check if the school meets full demonstrated need—some low-tuition schools have limited aid budgets, so your net cost could be higher than the sticker price.

The mistake most buyers make is assuming the lowest tuition equals the lowest out-of-pocket cost. They ignore that many of these schools are small, with fewer advanced courses or extracurriculars, which may force families to pay for outside tutoring or activities. Always request a net price calculator and compare financial aid packages before committing. Also, verify accreditation and college counseling support, as these can significantly impact your child's future.

Related questions

What are the typical additional fees at low-tuition private high schools?

Additional fees can range from $200 to $2,000 per year, covering technology, lab materials, activities, and registration. Some schools bundle these into a single 'student fee,' while others charge per item. Always request a full fee schedule before enrolling, as these can add 10–25% to the advertised tuition.

How does financial aid affect the actual cost of low-tuition private schools?

Financial aid can reduce tuition significantly, but low-tuition schools often have limited endowments. Some offer need-based grants covering 50–100% of tuition, while others provide only small scholarships. Use the school's net price calculator to estimate your family's out-of-pocket cost after aid.

Are low-tuition private high schools accredited?

Yes, most are accredited by regional bodies like Cognia or state education departments. Accreditation ensures the school meets academic standards, but it does not guarantee college placement quality. Always verify accreditation status on the school's website or state database.

What is the average class size at these affordable private schools?

Class sizes typically range from 10 to 20 students, which is smaller than public schools. This allows for more individualized attention, but some low-tuition schools may have larger classes due to budget constraints. Ask for the student-to-teacher ratio and average class size during your visit.

Do low-tuition private schools offer advanced placement (AP) courses?

Many do, but the number of AP offerings varies. Some schools may offer only a few APs, while others provide dual enrollment with local colleges. If AP courses are important, check the curriculum and ask about the school's college credit opportunities.

How do low-tuition private schools compare to public schools academically?

Academically, they often offer smaller classes and a more structured environment, but public schools may have more resources and course variety. Graduation rates and college acceptance are generally strong, but it's essential to review the school's test scores and college matriculation list.

Are there any hidden costs like uniforms or textbooks?

Uniforms and textbooks are often not included in tuition. Uniforms can cost $100–$300, and textbooks may be $200–$500 per year. Some schools include these in fees, so always ask for a complete list of required purchases.

FAQ

What is the lowest tuition private high school in the U.S. for 2027?

The lowest tuition varies by state, but some schools offer tuition under $5,000 per year, such as certain religious or rural schools. However, these may have limited facilities or course offerings. Always verify the total cost, including fees, before considering a school.

Can I get a scholarship to reduce tuition at these schools?

Yes, many low-tuition private schools offer merit-based or need-based scholarships. However, funds are often limited, and awards may cover only a portion of tuition. Apply early and submit all required financial documents to maximize your chances.

Are low-tuition private schools better than public schools?

It depends on your child's needs. Low-tuition private schools often provide smaller classes and a values-based education, but public schools may offer more diverse programs and resources. Compare academic outcomes, extracurriculars, and your child's learning style to decide.

How do I verify a private school's tuition is truly low?

Check the school's official website for published tuition and fees. Also, contact the admissions office to confirm there are no additional mandatory costs. Compare with other schools in your area to ensure the tuition is competitive.

What is the average tuition for private high schools in 2027?

The national average for private high school tuition is around $16,000 per year, but it ranges from $4,000 to $50,000. Low-tuition schools are typically below $10,000, often due to religious affiliation or community support.

Do low-tuition private schools provide transportation?

Transportation is rarely included in tuition. Some schools offer bus services for an additional fee, while others rely on parents for carpooling. Check the school's transportation policy and costs before enrolling.

Are there online private high schools with low tuition?

Yes, some online private schools offer tuition under $3,000 per year. These are often self-paced and may lack in-person socialization. Ensure the school is accredited and check if it offers the courses your child needs.

How can I compare low-tuition private schools effectively?

Create a checklist of your priorities: academics, extracurriculars, location, and total cost. Visit each school, ask about hidden fees, and talk to current parents. Use the school's net price calculator to estimate your actual cost after aid.

What are the drawbacks of low-tuition private schools?

Drawbacks may include limited facilities, fewer advanced courses, and smaller extracurricular programs. Some schools may also have high teacher turnover due to budget constraints. However, many offer a strong sense of community and individualized attention.

Sources

• https://www.privateschoolreview.com/tuition-stats/private-school-cost-by-state
• https://nces.ed.gov/ccd/schoolsearch/
• https://www.boardingschoolreview.com/tuition
• https://www.cognia.org/
• https://www.nais.org/
• https://www.ed.gov/
• https://www.schools.nyc.gov/enrollment/enroll-grade-by-grade/high-school
• https://www.doe.mass.edu/
• https://www.cde.ca.gov/

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