Top 10 Public High Schools in New York State in 2027

How We Ranked the Top 10

We weighted each school against the priorities families tell guidance offices and survey firms they actually care about, drawing on published figures from U.S. News, Niche, GreatSchools, the New York State Education Department (NYSED), and the College Board. The weighting:

• Academic performance (test scores, AP/IB) — 25%
• College and post-grad outcomes — 20%
• Value and cost — 15%
• Teachers and resources — 15%
• Environment and safety — 15%
• Extracurriculars and fit — 10%

A school that posts elite test scores but graduates few students, or wins on reputation but offers thin programs, drops fast. The winners balance all six.

1. Stuyvesant High School 🏆 BEST OVERALL

Type: Public Specialized Magnet | Tuition: Free (public) | Best for: High-achieving students seeking the state's deepest STEM and humanities curriculum

Located in Manhattan, Stuyvesant High School enrolls roughly 3,300 students and is one of New York City's nine specialized high schools, admitting students via the Specialized High Schools Admissions Test (SHSAT). Stuyvesant posts a graduation rate above 99% and one of the highest AP participation and pass rates in the nation, with most students sitting 10 or more AP exams before graduation. Average SAT scores routinely land near 1400–1500, and the school's student-teacher ratio of about 20:1 still supports rigorous, college-level coursework. Matriculation skews heavily toward selective universities, including Columbia University, Cornell University, MIT, and Harvard University. Its Math Team, Debate Team, and Robotics Club are nationally competitive. The main drawback is the intense pressure — students often report high stress levels — and the competitive admissions process limits access to those who can afford test prep or attend a strong middle school.

2. Bronx High School of Science 🥈 BEST NYC SPECIALIZED

Type: Public Specialized Magnet | Tuition: Free (public) | Best for: STEM-focused students who want a rigorous science curriculum without the Manhattan commute

Bronx High School of Science (often called Bronx Science) enrolls roughly 3,000 students and shares the SHSAT admissions process with Stuyvesant. Its graduation rate is above 98%, and AP participation is near universal, with a strong emphasis on science research and engineering. The school has produced eight Nobel laureates among its alumni, a testament to its research culture. Average SAT scores hover around 1350–1450, and students regularly place in top STEM programs at MIT, Stanford University, and Carnegie Mellon University. The Science Olympiad and Intel Science Talent Search are standout programs. Like Stuyvesant, the pressure is high, but the school's location in the Bronx makes it more accessible to students from northern boroughs and Westchester County.

3. Jericho High School 🏆 BEST VALUE

Type: Comprehensive Public | Tuition: Free (public) | Best for: Families seeking top-tier academics without a specialized admissions test

Located in Nassau County on Long Island, Jericho High School enrolls roughly 1,400 students and is a comprehensive public school with no entrance exam. Its graduation rate is near 99%, and AP pass rates exceed 90%, with a wide offering of 30+ AP courses. Average SAT scores are around 1350–1400, and the school sends graduates to top universities such as Cornell University, New York University, and University of Michigan. The school's music program and athletics are also highly regarded. The main drawback is the high property taxes in the Jericho School District, which make housing expensive, but the school itself is tuition-free for residents.

4. Great Neck South High School 🏆 BEST LONG ISLAND

Type: Comprehensive Public | Tuition: Free (public) | Best for: Students seeking a rigorous academic environment with strong STEM and humanities tracks

Great Neck South High School enrolls roughly 1,500 students and is part of the Great Neck Public Schools in Nassau County. Its graduation rate is above 98%, and it offers 25+ AP courses with high pass rates. Average SAT scores are around 1350–1400, and students frequently gain admission to Columbia University, University of Pennsylvania, and University of Chicago. The school's Research Program and Model UN are nationally recognized. The district's high property taxes are a barrier for many families, but the school's outcomes rival many private institutions.

5. Edgemont Junior-Senior High School 🏆 BEST SMALL SCHOOL

Type: Comprehensive Public | Tuition: Free (public) | Best for: Families who want a tight-knit community with strong academics

Located in Westchester County, Edgemont Junior-Senior High School enrolls roughly 1,000 students across grades 7–12. Its graduation rate is near 99%, and AP participation is high, with a focus on STEM and humanities. Average SAT scores are around 1350–1400, and students attend top colleges such as Yale University, Dartmouth College, and University of California, Berkeley. The small size allows for personalized attention, but the district's property taxes are among the highest in the state.

6. Rye Neck High School 🏆 BEST WESTCHESTER

Type: Comprehensive Public | Tuition: Free (public) | Best for: Students who want a balanced academic and extracurricular experience

Rye Neck High School enrolls roughly 600 students and is part of the Rye Neck Union Free School District in Westchester County. Its graduation rate is above 98%, and it offers 20+ AP courses with strong pass rates. Average SAT scores are around 1300–1350, and students attend colleges such as Boston College, New York University, and University of Virginia. The school's athletics and arts programs are well-regarded, and the small size fosters a strong community feel.

7. Harrison High School 🏆 BEST FOR ARTS

Type: Comprehensive Public | Tuition: Free (public) | Best for: Students with strong interests in music, theater, and visual arts

Harrison High School enrolls roughly 1,200 students and is located in Westchester County. Its graduation rate is above 98%, and AP participation is high, but the school is particularly known for its award-winning music and theater programs. Average SAT scores are around 1300–1350, and students attend colleges such as Syracuse University, University of Southern California, and University of Michigan. The arts programs are a major draw, but the district's taxes are high.

8. Pittsford Mendon High School 🏆 BEST UPSTATE

Type: Comprehensive Public | Tuition: Free (public) | Best for: Families in Upstate New York seeking top-tier academics

Located in Monroe County near Rochester, Pittsford Mendon High School enrolls roughly 1,100 students. Its graduation rate is above 98%, and it offers 20+ AP courses with strong pass rates. Average SAT scores are around 1300–1350, and students attend colleges such as University of Rochester, Cornell University, and Boston University. The school's athletics and community service programs are highly regarded. The district's property taxes are moderate for Upstate New York.

9. Brighton High School 🏆 BEST FOR INNOVATION

Type: Comprehensive Public | Tuition: Free (public) | Best for: Students interested in project-based learning and technology

Brighton High School enrolls roughly 1,000 students and is part of the Brighton Central School District near Rochester. Its graduation rate is above 97%, and it offers a strong STEM curriculum with project-based learning opportunities. Average SAT scores are around 1250–1300, and students attend colleges such as Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, University at Buffalo, and University of Vermont. The school's innovation lab and entrepreneurship programs are standout features.

10. Guilderland High School 🏆 BEST CAPITAL REGION

Type: Comprehensive Public | Tuition: Free (public) | Best for: Families in the Albany area seeking a well-rounded education

Guilderland High School enrolls roughly 1,500 students and is located in the Capital Region near Albany. Its graduation rate is above 97%, and it offers 20+ AP courses with solid pass rates. Average SAT scores are around 1250–1300, and students attend colleges such as SUNY Albany, University of Vermont, and Syracuse University. The school's music program and athletics are strong, and the district's property taxes are reasonable compared to Downstate.

Academic Programs and Extracurricular Opportunities

When evaluating top public high schools in New York State, the depth and breadth of academic offerings often distinguish the best from the merely good. Many of the schools on this list offer robust Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) programs, with course catalogs that rival small liberal arts colleges. For example, schools like Scarsdale High School and Great Neck South High School provide dozens of AP courses spanning STEM, humanities, and the arts, allowing students to earn college credit and stand out in competitive admissions. Additionally, specialized programs such as research science tracks, engineering academies, and dual-enrollment partnerships with local universities (including SUNY and CUNY campuses) give students hands-on experience and early exposure to college-level work.

Extracurriculars are equally vital. The top schools boast nationally recognized debate teams, award-winning robotics clubs, competitive athletics, and vibrant performing arts programs. The Bronx High School of Science, for instance, has a storied history of producing Intel Science Talent Search finalists, while schools like Ward Melville High School on Long Island excel in both music and sports. For families, the key is to look beyond rankings and consider which specific programs align with a student’s passions—whether that’s a strong theater department, a championship chess team, or a community service initiative that leads to meaningful impact. Visiting schools, attending open houses, and talking to current students can provide invaluable insight into the true culture and opportunities available.

Navigating Admissions and Enrollment

Admission processes vary significantly across New York State’s top public high schools, and understanding these differences is crucial for families planning ahead. The New York City specialized schools—including Stuyvesant High School, Brooklyn Technical High School, and Staten Island Technical High School—require passing the Specialized High Schools Admissions Test (SHSAT), a rigorous exam that determines placement. Preparation for this test often begins in middle school, with many families investing in tutoring or prep courses. In contrast, schools like Jericho High School and Great Neck South High School are zoned public schools, meaning enrollment is based on residence within the district. This makes them more accessible to local families but also means that housing costs in these high-performing districts can be significantly higher.

For families outside New York City, some top schools like Pittsford Mendon High School in the Rochester area or Shaker High School in the Albany region are part of larger public school districts with open enrollment policies, though attendance boundaries still apply. A few districts offer limited transfer options or magnet programs for students with special talents, but these are rare. The bottom line: if you’re aiming for a specialized NYC school, start SHSAT preparation early. If you’re considering a suburban powerhouse, research housing markets and district boundaries carefully. Many districts also host information sessions and provide detailed enrollment guides on their websites, so leveraging these resources can save time and reduce stress.

Measuring Success Beyond Rankings

While rankings and statistics provide a useful starting point, they don’t tell the whole story about a high school’s quality. True success in education goes beyond graduation rates and AP scores. Many of New York’s top public high schools prioritize student well-being, offering comprehensive mental health support, college counseling, and career exploration programs. For instance, schools like Edgemont Junior-Senior High School and Rye Neck High School have developed strong advisory systems where students meet regularly with a faculty mentor to discuss academic progress and personal goals. These structures help students navigate the pressures of rigorous coursework and maintain a healthy balance.

Another important metric is the school’s commitment to equity and inclusion. The best schools actively work to close achievement gaps, provide resources for English language learners, and foster diverse environments where all students can thrive. When evaluating a school, look for indicators like the availability of free tutoring, the diversity of the student body, and the percentage of students who qualify for free or reduced-price lunch. A school that excels academically while also supporting a wide range of learners is often a better long-term choice than one that simply posts high average test scores. Ultimately, the right school is one where your child feels challenged, supported, and inspired to grow—not just in the classroom, but as a whole person.

FAQ

What is the best public high school in New York State for STEM? Stuyvesant High School is the top choice, with its rigorous science and math curriculum and strong college placement in STEM fields.

Are there any public high schools in New York State that don't require a test for admission? Yes, many top schools like Jericho High School, Great Neck South High School, and Edgemont Junior-Senior High School are comprehensive public schools with no entrance exam.

How do property taxes affect access to top public high schools in New York? High property taxes in districts like Jericho and Edgemont can be a barrier, but the schools themselves are tuition-free for residents, and some districts offer financial assistance for housing.

What is the graduation rate at Stuyvesant High School? Stuyvesant's graduation rate is above 99%, one of the highest in the state.

Can students from outside New York City attend Stuyvesant? Only New York City residents are eligible to take the SHSAT and attend Stuyvesant, though some students from neighboring counties may apply through limited programs.

What is the best public high school in Upstate New York? Pittsford Mendon High School is widely considered the top choice in Upstate New York for its strong academics and college outcomes.

Sources

• New York State Education Department (NYSED) — School Report Cards
• U.S. News & World Report — Best High Schools Rankings
• Niche — Best Public High Schools in New York State
• GreatSchools — School Ratings and Reviews
• College Board — AP and SAT Score Reports
• The New York Times — Coverage of NYC Specialized High Schools
• Newsday — Long Island School Rankings

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