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Private School Cost Calculator 2026: What Families Pay by State

The average private school tuition in 2026 is $14,000–$15,000 per year. Most families pay $12,000–$16,000 depending on school type and state. Costs range from $6,450/year in Mississippi to $26,850 in Washington D.C.

  • Religious schools (Catholic, Christian, Lutheran): $8,000–$9,000/year
  • Independent/nonsectarian schools: $25,000–$29,000/year
  • Boarding schools: $35,000–$65,000/year (room and board included)
  • High school vs. elementary: tuition runs 28–35% higher at the same campus

Source: NCES Private School Universe Survey (2021–22 baseline) with 4%/year inflation adjustment to 2026.

5 Things Most Cost Guides Won't Tell You

  1. School type matters more than location. A Catholic school in Manhattan ($9,200) costs less than a nonsectarian school in suburban Ohio ($18,000). Type beats geography almost every time.
  2. The sticker price is 10–25% below your actual bill. Uniforms, books, lunch, transportation, and activity fees add $1,000–$7,000/year that most tuition pages don't show.
  3. 48% of families at independent schools get aid. NCES data shows nearly half of families at well-endowed schools receive discounts of 20–60%. Don't self-reject based on sticker price.
  4. Tuition compounds at 3–5% per year. A $10,000 kindergarten bill becomes $12,800–$16,300 by 8th grade at the same school. Plan against year-10 costs, not year-1.
  5. 15 states now offer universal ESA/voucher programs. Families in Arizona, Florida, West Virginia, and 12 other states can offset $5,000–$8,000/year. Check your state.

State averages range from $6,450/year (Mississippi) to $26,850 (D.C.). Compare all 50 states · Cost by grade level · K–12 total cost · Net cost after aid · ESA & voucher eligibility

2026 Average Private School Tuition by School Type

National Avg/Year
$14,000
all school types
Per Month
$1,165
national average
Lowest State
$6,450
Mississippi
Highest State
$26,850
Washington D.C.

Religious schools: $8,000–$9,000/yr · Independent schools: $25,000–$29,000/yr · 2026 estimates based on NCES 2021–22 data at 4%/yr growth

Figure out your actual number

State averages tell you the range. These calculators tell you whether your family can swing it.

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K–12 Total Cost Calculator

Year-by-year projection from any starting grade. See what K–12 actually costs before you commit.
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Can I Afford Private School?

Enter your income. See if private school falls inside or outside the 10% sustainability threshold.
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Affordability Calculator

Income, state, and school type together. Factors in financial aid odds and net price.
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ESA & Voucher Eligibility

15 states now have universal programs. Check if yours qualifies — some families offset $5,000–$8,000/year.

Private School Cost by State

Tuition varies from $6,250 to $26,850 depending on your state. Pick yours for a detailed breakdown.

California

$19,800/yr

New York

$20,400/yr

Texas

$12,500/yr

Florida

$11,200/yr

Massachusetts

$22,500/yr

Pennsylvania

$14,200/yr

Illinois

$13,400/yr

New Jersey

$19,800/yr

Georgia

$12,800/yr

Virginia

$15,600/yr

Average Private School Tuition by State (2026) — Top 15

State Avg/Year Avg/Month
District of Columbia $26,850 $2,238
Massachusetts $22,500 $1,875
Connecticut $21,350 $1,779
New York $20,150 $1,679
New Hampshire $17,850 $1,488
New Jersey $16,750 $1,396
Vermont $16,250 $1,354
California $15,680 $1,307
Maryland $15,450 $1,288
Rhode Island $14,850 $1,238
Virginia $14,250 $1,188
Hawaii $14,200 $1,183
Washington $13,450 $1,121
Pennsylvania $13,250 $1,104
Maine $13,250 $1,104
View all 50 states →

Can You Afford Private School in Your State?

Tuition is just the headline number. The real question is what it costs relative to your income and what aid is available where you live.

California

Affordability guide

Texas

Affordability guide

Florida

Affordability guide

New York

Affordability guide

Pennsylvania

Affordability guide

Illinois

Affordability guide

Ohio

Affordability guide

Georgia

Affordability guide

North Carolina

Affordability guide

Virginia

Affordability guide
Run the full affordability calculator →

Private School Cost: What the Numbers Actually Mean

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Private school costs $14,000–$15,000/year at the national average across all school types in 2026. Religious schools average $8,000–$9,000; independent nonsectarian schools average $25,000–$29,000. State averages range from $6,450 in Mississippi to $26,850 in Washington D.C. — a 4x spread driven by teacher salaries, real estate, and school type mix. Use the calculator above to see your state's range.

The national average private school cost is $12,350 per year, according to NCES data. That number is nearly useless on its own. A Montessori elementary in rural Ohio might charge $6,500. A prep school in Boston or Manhattan charges $55,000 or more. The averages hide an enormous spread.

School type is the biggest variable. Religious schools average around $7,200/year nationally. Independent schools (nonsectarian, privately governed) average closer to $24,000. Montessori and alternative schools land in the middle, typically $8,000–$14,000. If you're comparing your options, knowing the type is step one.

Grade level adds another layer. High school tuition runs about 15–20% above elementary at the same school. The logic: smaller class sizes in upper grades, more specialized faculty, and extracurricular programs that cost real money to staff. A school that charges $9,000 for fourth grade usually charges $10,500–$11,000 for eleventh.

Tuition is rarely the full bill. Uniforms run $200–$800 depending on how many they require. Books and materials add $300–$1,000 for most schools. Transportation is often the surprise: many private schools don't run buses, so families absorb $1,000–$2,000 in gas or carpool costs. Add lunch (if not included), activity fees, and sports participation charges, and the real annual cost is typically $1,000–$7,000 above the sticker tuition.

About 25% of private school students receive some form of financial aid, per NCES. Aid availability varies dramatically by school endowment. A well-funded independent school might discount 40–60% for qualifying families. A parish school with limited endowment might offer 10–15%. The calculator gives you the market rate; the school's aid office gives you your actual number.

The number parents rarely calculate upfront: 13 years of K-12 at the national average of $12,350 comes out to roughly $160,000. At the religious school average, closer to $94,000. At an independent school, $312,000. Those figures assume flat tuition, which won't happen.

Private school tuition has risen 3–5% annually for most of the past decade. A school charging $10,000 today will likely charge $11,600–$12,800 by year five. If you're planning for a kindergartner, run the numbers against a year-10 budget, not year 1. The calculator doesn't project future increases, so add 3–4% per year yourself if you want a realistic long-term figure.

Private School Cost by State: Most and Least Expensive

Average annual tuition (all school types combined). Source: NCES Private School Universe Survey, 2021–22.

Highest-Cost States

State Avg/Year Avg/Month
Washington D.C.$26,850$2,238
Massachusetts$22,500$1,875
Connecticut$21,350$1,779
New York$20,400$1,700
New Jersey$19,800$1,650

Lowest-Cost States

State Avg/Year Avg/Month
Mississippi$6,450$538
Utah$6,800$567
Idaho$7,000$583
West Virginia$7,100$592
Arkansas$7,250$604

Private School Cost: 10 Most-Searched States (2026)

Average annual tuition for the most commonly searched states. California and New York run nearly double the national average; Texas and Florida come in below it.

State Avg/Year Avg/Month
California $19,800 $1,650
New York $20,400 $1,700
Texas $12,500 $1,042
Florida $11,200 $933
Massachusetts $22,500 $1,875
New Jersey $19,800 $1,650
Illinois $13,400 $1,117
Pennsylvania $14,200 $1,183
Georgia $12,800 $1,067
Virginia $15,600 $1,300

2026 estimates (NCES 2021–22 at 4%/year). Religious includes Catholic and other sectarian schools. See all 50 states →

Private School Cost by State: All 50 States (2026)

Average annual private school tuition for all 50 states. 2026 estimates based on NCES 2021–22 data at 4%/year growth. Click any state for detailed cost breakdown.

State Avg/Year Religious Independent
District of Columbia $26,850 $15,500 $45,200
Massachusetts $22,500 $12,200 $45,800
Connecticut $21,350 $11,800 $42,500
New York $20,150 $11,500 $42,800
New Hampshire $17,850 $10,200 $38,500
New Jersey $16,750 $10,800 $35,800
Vermont $16,250 $9,800 $35,500
California $15,680 $10,200 $30,500
Maryland $15,450 $10,500 $32,500
Rhode Island $14,850 $9,500 $32,500
Virginia $14,250 $9,800 $28,500
Hawaii $14,200 $9,100 $26,500
Washington $13,450 $9,200 $28,800
Pennsylvania $13,250 $8,500 $30,800
Maine $13,250 $8,200 $28,500
Delaware $12,800 $8,500 $24,200
Colorado $12,450 $8,100 $24,500
Illinois $12,350 $7,800 $28,500
Oregon $12,150 $8,200 $24,500
Texas $11,450 $7,800 $24,200
Georgia $11,250 $7,800 $22,800
Nevada $11,200 $7,800 $22,500
Alaska $10,850 $7,200 $19,500
Tennessee $10,650 $7,500 $22,500
Florida $10,450 $7,200 $21,500
North Carolina $10,250 $7,200 $21,500
Arizona $9,875 $7,400 $18,900
Minnesota $9,850 $6,800 $22,500
Michigan $9,250 $6,400 $19,800
New Mexico $9,250 $6,500 $18,500
Ohio $9,150 $6,500 $21,200
South Carolina $8,950 $6,500 $18,500
Utah $8,950 $6,200 $17,800
Missouri $8,750 $6,200 $20,500
Wisconsin $8,650 $5,800 $19,500
Wyoming $8,450 $5,800 $16,200
Indiana $8,450 $6,200 $17,500
Alabama $8,245 $6,150 $16,800
Montana $8,150 $5,500 $15,800
Kentucky $8,150 $6,000 $17,800
Kansas $7,850 $5,500 $16,200
Oklahoma $7,650 $5,500 $15,800
Idaho $7,650 $5,200 $14,800
Nebraska $7,450 $5,200 $16,200
Iowa $7,250 $5,100 $15,200
West Virginia $7,250 $5,200 $14,500
Arkansas $7,150 $5,400 $14,200
North Dakota $6,850 $4,800 $13,500
Louisiana $6,850 $5,100 $16,500
Mississippi $6,450 $4,800 $12,800
South Dakota $6,250 $4,500 $12,800

National average: $12,350/year. 2026 estimates apply 4%/year to 2021–22 NCES baseline. See full sortable state comparison →

Private School Cost by Grade Level

National average tuition by grade band and school type. High school runs 15–20% above elementary.

Grade Level All Types Avg Religious Independent
Elementary (K–5) $11,100 $7,200 $22,500
Middle School (6–8) $12,350 $8,000 $25,000
High School (9–12) $14,200 $9,200 $28,750

Private School Cost vs. Public School: The Real Comparison

Public school isn't free. The average per-pupil spending is $14,800/year nationally, most of which you already pay through taxes. Private school replaces that with direct tuition. The gap is smaller than parents expect in some states, enormous in others.

The real comparison isn't private tuition vs. $0. It's private tuition vs. (what you'd pay out-of-pocket for a comparable public school experience, including private tutoring, enrichment, and activities many public schools no longer fund).

Average private school tuition vs. public per-pupil spending for largest states (2026 estimates)
State Private Avg/Year Gap
New York $20,400 Public higher
Massachusetts $22,500 +$1,100
California $19,800 +$3,000
New Jersey $19,800 Public higher
Texas $12,500 +$2,300
Florida $11,200 +$1,800
Illinois $13,400 Public higher
National average $14,000 Similar

Public per-pupil spending: NCES 2022–23. Private tuition: 2026 estimates from NCES 2021–22 at 4%/year. Gap = private tuition minus public spending.

In high-spending states like New York, New Jersey, and Illinois, public school actually costs more per pupil than average private tuition. In Texas, Florida, and California, private school runs $1,800–$3,000 more per year than the state spends on each public school student. See the full private vs. public school comparison →

Average Cost of Private School (2026)

The average cost of private school in the US is $14,000–$15,000 per year in 2026, up from the $12,350 NCES 2021–22 national baseline. That figure blends two very different markets: religious schools averaging $8,000–$9,000/year and independent (nonsectarian) schools averaging $25,000–$29,000/year.

The average cost of private school varies more by location than any other factor. Mississippi averages $6,450; Washington D.C. averages $26,850. California, New York, Massachusetts, and Connecticut all top $19,000. Use the calculator above to see average private school cost for your specific state.

  • Average cost of private school — all types: $14,000/year
  • Average cost of religious/Catholic school: $8,500/year
  • Average cost of independent school: $25,000/year
  • Average cost per month (national): $1,165/month

Private Elementary School Cost

Private elementary school cost (grades K–5) averages $13,000/year nationally in 2026, or about $1,083/month. Religious elementary schools average $8,400/year; independent elementary schools average $26,300/year.

Elementary is the lowest-cost grade band. Expect a step up at middle school and again at high school, typically 15–20% per transition at the same school. Over 6 years, K–5 at the national average runs roughly $78,000 before annual tuition increases.

Private High School Cost

Private high school cost (grades 9–12) averages $16,600/year nationally in 2026, or $1,383/month. Religious high schools average $10,800/year; independent high schools average $33,600/year.

High school tuition runs 28–35% above elementary at the same school. The premium reflects smaller class sizes, more specialized faculty, and extracurricular programs. Over 4 years, private high school at the national average totals roughly $66,400.

Private School Cost: K–8 vs. 9–12 vs. K–12

High school runs about 28% above elementary at the same school. Here's how costs break down by grade span — useful if you're planning for a specific window.

Grade Span Years Avg/Year (2026)
Elementary (K–5) 6 $13,000
K–8 (combined) 9 $13,500
High School (9–12) 4 $16,600
K–12 (full) 13 $14,400

2026 estimates (NCES 2021–22 baseline at 4%/year). K–8 averages the elementary and middle bands. K–12 total assumes flat tuition — real costs compound 3–5%/year. See compounding K–12 projection →

Private School Cost in 2026: What the Numbers Look Like Now

The NCES data behind this calculator is from 2021–22. Private school tuition has increased 3–5% per year since then, which means a school at the national average of $12,350 in 2021 is probably charging $14,000–$15,000 in 2026. Independent schools near the coasts hit harder: a $25,000 school four years ago is likely $29,000–$31,000 now.

California stands out. Average private school tuition in California runs $16,000–$22,000/year in 2026, depending on school type and grade level. Middle school specifically averages around $18,000–$20,000 across Catholic, independent, and other nonsectarian schools. Los Angeles and Bay Area independent day schools are a different category entirely—$42,000–$56,000 for K–8. The calculator shows the statewide average; your neighborhood will be higher.

The geographic spread hasn’t compressed. Mississippi, Utah, and Idaho still have the lowest costs nationally, mostly because the private school market there is dominated by small religious schools charging $7,000–$9,000. If you’re comparing states for cost, the Northeast and California are genuinely 2–3x the South—and that gap is durable.

Estimated 2026 private school cost by school type (projected from 2021–22 NCES baseline at 4%/year)
School Type 2021–22 Avg 2026 Est. 4-Year Increase
Religious / Catholic $8,000 $9,350 +$1,350
National Average (all types) $12,350 $14,425 +$2,075
Independent / Nonsectarian $25,000 $29,200 +$4,200

How Much Does Private School Cost Per Year?

Private school costs $14,000–$15,000 per year on average in 2026, up from the $12,350 national average in NCES 2021–22 data. That figure hides a wide spread. A Catholic parish school in the South charges $5,000–$7,000 per year. A nonsectarian prep school in Boston or California charges $35,000–$55,000.

Religious schools average around $8,000–$9,500 per year nationally. Independent schools average $25,000–$30,000 per year. The middle ground—Montessori, alternative, and smaller secular schools—runs $10,000–$18,000. What you’ll actually pay depends on your state and school type more than the national average does.

Per-year cost is just half the equation. Tuition rises 3–5% each year at most schools. A $12,000 school today is closer to $14,600 in year five, $17,800 in year ten. Planning around a single per-year figure understates real cost. See the K–12 total cost calculator to see how per-year tuition compounds from any starting grade through graduation.

California Private School Cost in 2026

California average: $16,000–$22,000/year depending on type. Middle school specifically averages ~$18,500/year across all school types.

  • Catholic / religious middle school: $10,000–$15,000
  • Independent middle school (statewide): $28,000–$38,000
  • LA / Bay Area independent day schools: $42,000–$56,000

Projected from 2021–22 NCES California data at 4%/year. Individual schools vary significantly.

See full California private school tuition breakdown →

Private School Cost in Los Angeles (2026)

Los Angeles has the most expensive private school market in California. The LA average of $26,800/year sits 35% above the California statewide average and nearly double the national average. Catholic and religious schools in LA run $10,000–$16,000; independent day schools average $38,000–$52,000; and the elite prep schools exceed $55,000.

Average private school cost in Los Angeles by school type and grade level (2026)
School Type Elementary Middle School High School
Catholic / Religious $9,500–$13,000 $12,000–$16,000 $14,000–$18,000
Independent Day School $30,000–$42,000 $38,000–$48,000 $42,000–$52,000
Elite Prep (Harvard-Westlake, Marlborough) — $50,000–$53,000 $53,000–$57,000
LA Average (all types) $22,500 $28,000 $32,000

2026 estimates. Range reflects variation across school type and Westside vs. Valley vs. South Bay locations.

Neighborhood matters in LA. Private schools in Brentwood, Pacific Palisades, and Sherman Oaks tend to run $5,000–$10,000 above the LA average. South Bay and San Fernando Valley schools are closer to the LA average.

Los Angeles Private School Cost Guide →

Planning for kindergarten through graduation?

The per-year numbers above don't account for annual tuition increases (3–5%/year historically). Run the full K–12 projection with compounding increases on the total cost calculator.

K–12 Total Cost Calculator → Project Future Tuition →

Can I Afford Private School? Use the Calculator

The private school affordability calculator at can-i-afford gives you an A–F affordability grade based on your household income, state, and school type. Financial planners use 10% of gross income as the sustainability ceiling. Here's what that looks like at each tuition level:

School Type Avg Tuition Income Needed (10% rule)
Religious / Catholic $8,500/yr $85,000
National Average $14,000/yr $140,000
Independent School $25,000/yr $250,000
Los Angeles Average $26,800/yr $268,000

10% income threshold = annual tuition ÷ 0.10. "With aid" column assumes 48% average discount for qualifying families (NCES).

Can you get financial aid for private school?

27%

of private school students receive financial aid (NCES)

48%

average tuition discount for aid recipients

10%

of income — practical budget ceiling for sustainability

Most private schools use a need-based aid process similar to college applications. Families earning under $75,000 often qualify for significant discounts at well-endowed schools.

Can I Afford Private School? Calculator → Estimate Your Aid → Affordability Score A–F

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average private school tuition?
The average private school tuition is $14,000–$15,000/year in 2026 across all school types, up from the $12,350 NCES 2021–22 national baseline (3–5% annual increases). Religious school tuition averages $8,000–$9,000/year; independent school tuition averages $25,000–$29,000. Tuition ranges from $6,450/year in Mississippi (lowest) to $26,850/year in Washington D.C. (highest). Half of private school students attend schools below these averages. Use the calculator above to see your state’s typical range.
How much does private school cost?
Private school costs $6,250–$26,850/year depending on state and school type. The national average is $12,350/year. Religious schools average $8,000; independent schools average $25,000. District of Columbia tops all states at $26,850 average; Mississippi is lowest at $6,450.
How much does private school cost per year?
The national average private school tuition is approximately $12,350 per year. Religious schools average around $8,000, while independent schools average around $25,000. Costs vary significantly by state and school type. Connecticut averages $21,350; Massachusetts tops $22,500.
What is the average school tuition for private schools in the US?
Private school tuition in the US averages $12,350 per year nationally (NCES data). That figure masks a wide range: Mississippi averages $6,450, Connecticut hits $21,350, and Massachusetts tops $22,500. Religious schools run around $8,000; independent schools around $25,000. Use the calculator above to see your state's actual numbers.
What factors affect private school tuition?
School type is the biggest driver. Religious schools run $5,000-$12,000; independent schools $15,000-$45,000+. Location is second. Connecticut and Massachusetts average over $20,000 statewide; Southern states often average under $9,000. Grade level adds 15-20% for high school vs. elementary at the same school.
How much does private school cost per month?
At the national average of $12,350/year, that's about $1,030 per month. Religious schools average closer to $670/month; independent schools around $2,080/month. Most schools offer 10-12 month payment plans. Add $100-$600/month for uniforms, books, and activity fees not included in tuition.
What is a private school calculator?
A private school calculator estimates annual tuition by state, school type, and grade level. This calculator uses NCES Private School Universe Survey data across all 50 states. Select your state, grade (elementary, middle, or high school), and school type (religious, independent, or Montessori) to see the typical tuition range, how your state compares to the national average of $12,350/year, and an estimated total annual cost including uniforms, books, and fees.
How much does private school cost in 2026?
Private school cost in 2026 averages approximately $14,000–$15,000/year nationally, up from the $12,350 NCES 2021–22 baseline after 3–5% annual increases. Religious schools now average around $9,000–$10,000/year; independent schools average $28,000–$31,000. State range runs from about $7,500 in Mississippi and Utah to $28,000+ in Washington D.C. and Massachusetts. Use the calculator above to see your state’s estimate.
What is the average private middle school tuition in California in 2026?
Average private middle school tuition in California in 2026 is approximately $18,000–$20,000/year across all school types. Catholic and religious middle schools run $10,000–$15,000. Independent and nonsectarian middle schools average $28,000–$38,000 statewide. Top metro areas run higher — see city pages for metro-level breakdowns. These figures are projected from the 2021–22 NCES California baseline at 4%/year annual increases.
What is the average private school cost in the United States?
The average private school cost in the United States is $14,000–$15,000/year in 2026 across all school types, up from the $12,350 NCES 2021–22 national baseline. Religious schools average $8,000–$9,000/year. Independent (nonsectarian) schools average $25,000–$29,000/year. Costs vary significantly by state: Mississippi averages $6,450 (lowest); Washington D.C. averages $26,850 (highest). About 27% of private school students receive financial aid averaging 48% of tuition.
What is the average private high school tuition?
Average private high school tuition (grades 9–12) is $14,200/year nationally based on NCES 2021–22 data, or approximately $16,600/year in 2026 after annual increases. Religious high schools average $10,800/year; independent (nonsectarian) high schools average $33,600/year. High school tuition runs 28–35% above elementary at the same school due to smaller class sizes, specialized faculty, and extracurricular programs. California private high schools average $24,000–26,000/year; Texas and Florida are closer to $13,000–16,000.
What is the average private elementary school tuition?
Average private elementary school tuition (grades K–5) is $11,100/year nationally based on NCES 2021–22 data, or approximately $13,000/year in 2026. Religious elementary schools average $8,400/year; independent elementary schools average $26,300/year. Elementary tuition is the lowest of the three grade bands — expect a step up when your child moves to middle and high school at the same institution. Over 6 years, K–5 at the national average totals roughly $78,000.
How much does K-8 private school cost?
K–8 private school averages $13,500/year in 2026 across all school types, blending the lower elementary rate with the slightly higher middle school rate. Over 9 years, K–8 totals roughly $121,500 at the national average assuming flat tuition — real costs with 3–5% annual increases would be higher. Religious K–8 schools average $8,700/year ($78,300 total); independent K–8 schools average $27,400/year ($246,600 total). Many K–8 schools offer a single tuition rate for all grades, which simplifies planning.
What is the average private school tuition by grade level?
Private elementary school (K–5) averages $11,100/year nationally across all school types. Middle school (6–8) averages $12,350/year. High school (9–12) averages $14,200/year — about 28% above elementary at the same school. Religious schools: $7,200 elementary, $8,000 middle, $9,200 high school. Independent schools: $22,500 elementary, $25,000 middle, $28,750 high school. The grade-level premium exists because smaller class sizes, specialized faculty, and extracurricular programs cost more to staff in upper grades.
What is the average private school tuition by state?
Average private school tuition by state ranges from $6,450/year in Mississippi to $26,850/year in Washington D.C. The highest-cost states are D.C. ($26,850), Massachusetts ($22,500), Connecticut ($21,350), New York ($20,400), and New Jersey ($19,800). The lowest-cost states are Mississippi ($6,450), Utah ($6,800), Idaho ($7,000), West Virginia ($7,100), and Arkansas ($7,250). California averages $19,800/year; Texas $12,500; Florida $11,200. The national average is $14,000–$15,000 in 2026. State averages reflect the mix of school types — states with more independent schools trend higher; those dominated by religious schools trend lower.
Is private school worth it?
Whether private school is worth it depends on your specific situation: the quality of your local public school, how much financial aid you can get, and what outcomes matter most to you. Research on outcomes is mixed — studies controlling for family income and parental education find smaller academic advantages than the raw data suggests. The clearest cases where private school tends to pay off: your local public school is significantly underperforming, you can access meaningful financial aid (25% of private school students receive aid averaging 48% of tuition), or your child has specific needs the private school is better equipped to address. At $14,000+/year before additional costs, and with tuition rising 3–5%/year, the financial commitment is substantial. Use the calculator above to see your state's actual cost range.
What is the average cost of private school?
The average cost of private school in the US is $14,000–$15,000 per year in 2026, up from the $12,350 NCES 2021–22 national baseline. Religious and Catholic schools average $8,000–$9,000/year. Independent (nonsectarian) schools average $25,000–$29,000/year. The average cost varies widely by state: Mississippi averages $6,450 (lowest); Washington D.C. averages $26,850 (highest). Select your state in the calculator above to see the average cost of private school where you live.
Can I afford private school?
Whether you can afford private school depends on tuition relative to your income. Financial planners typically flag 10% of gross income as the sustainability ceiling for private school tuition. At the national average of $14,000/year, you need roughly $140,000 household income to stay at or under that threshold. Religious schools at $8,500/year become manageable around $85,000. About 27% of private school students receive financial aid averaging 48% of tuition. Use the private school affordability calculator at /can-i-afford to see your specific numbers.
What is private elementary school cost?
Private elementary school cost averages $13,000/year nationally in 2026 (grades K–5), or about $1,083/month. Religious elementary schools average $8,400/year. Independent elementary schools average $26,300/year. Elementary is the lowest-cost grade band — expect a 15–20% increase per grade transition at the same school. Over 6 years, K–5 at the national average totals roughly $78,000 before annual tuition increases of 3–5%.
What is private high school cost?
Private high school cost averages $16,600/year nationally in 2026 (grades 9–12), or $1,383/month. Religious high schools average $10,800/year. Independent high schools average $33,600/year. High school tuition runs 28–35% above elementary at the same institution, reflecting smaller class sizes, specialized faculty, and extracurricular programs. Over 4 years, private high school at the national average costs roughly $66,400.
Can I afford private school calculator
The private school affordability calculator at /can-i-afford estimates whether private school fits your budget based on income, state, and school type. Financial planners use 10% of gross income as a sustainability ceiling: at the national average of $14,000/year, you need roughly $140,000 household income to stay within that threshold. At the religious school average of $8,500, the threshold drops to $85,000. Catholic and religious schools become viable around $60,000–$75,000 with financial aid. The calculator factors in your state's actual tuition, local public school spending, and whether financial aid is likely based on your income bracket. About 27% of private school students receive aid averaging 48% of tuition.

Data Sources & Methodology

All tuition figures are based on the NCES Private School Universe Survey (PSS), 2021–22 collection cycle, which covers 24,090 private schools across the U.S. We apply a 4% annual inflation adjustment to produce 2026 estimates, matching the average private school tuition increase observed from 2015–2022.

Grade-level cost multipliers (elementary 0.9x, middle 1.0x, high school 1.15x) are calculated from NCES enrollment-weighted averages by grade span. State-level public school spending comes from the NCES Common Core of Data. Financial aid percentages draw from NCES survey data on private school aid distribution. Tax benefit details reference IRS Publication 970.

Last updated: April 15, 2026.

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Tuition Costs 2026

Current-year averages by state, type, and CA region

Tuition by State

Compare costs across all 50 states

Private vs Public School

Side-by-side cost breakdown with state table

Financial Aid Calculator

Estimate need-based aid by income level and state

ESA & Voucher Eligibility

Check if your state has a voucher program. 15 states now universal.

Total K–12 Cost Calculator

Year-by-year projection from any starting grade to graduation

Is Private School Worth It?

Enter your income, grade, and public school rating. Get the honest verdict.

Catholic School Cost

$4,000–$12,000/year. Parish vs. non-parish rates by grade

Boarding School Costs

$35K–$65K/year. Room, board, and tuition breakdown

Tax Benefits for Private School

529 plans, Coverdell ESAs, and state-level deductions

More: Montessori · Christian · Waldorf · Jewish · Prep · Military · vs Homeschool · vs Charter · Most Expensive

Most Searched: California Private School Tuition (2026)

CA Statewide Avg
$19,800
per year
Middle School Avg
$19,800
per year
High School Avg
$24,200
per year
Southern CA Avg
$22,900
per year
California Private School Tuition Guide →

Most Expensive Cities for Private School (2026)

New York

$38,500/yr

Boston

$36,800/yr

San Francisco

$34,200/yr

Washington DC

$28,400/yr

Los Angeles

$26,800/yr

Private School Cost by City

Average tuition in 50 major US metros. Top cities:

New York

$38,500/yr

Los Angeles

$26,800/yr

San Francisco

$34,200/yr

Boston

$36,800/yr

Washington DC

$28,400/yr

Chicago

$18,200/yr

Houston

$14,200/yr

Dallas

$16,500/yr

Atlanta

$15,800/yr
All 50 city cost guides →

Updated April 2026. Data based on NCES Private School Universe Survey.

Browse Private School Cost by State

Average tuition for all 50 states + D.C. — select your state to see grade-level and school-type breakdowns.

California Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas Colorado Connecticut Delaware District of Columbia Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming

Compare all states: sortable table with tuition by type →

How to Afford Private School by State

State-specific financial aid, scholarships, tax credits, and payment strategies.

California Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas Colorado Connecticut Delaware District of Columbia Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming

Public vs Private School Cost by State

Side-by-side comparison of private tuition vs. public per-pupil spending in every state.

California Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas Colorado Connecticut Delaware District of Columbia Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming

Browse Private School Cost by City

Average tuition in 50 major US metros — select your city for grade-level and school-type breakdowns.

New York City Los Angeles San Francisco Boston Washington DC Hartford San Jose Seattle San Diego Orange County Philadelphia Dallas Miami Baltimore Chicago Portland Denver Sacramento Houston Austin Atlanta Minneapolis Richmond Nashville Phoenix Charlotte Raleigh Kansas City Columbus Tampa Las Vegas Pittsburgh Indianapolis New Orleans St. Louis Jacksonville Louisville Detroit San Antonio Cleveland Milwaukee Cincinnati Fort Worth Memphis Virginia Beach Oklahoma City Albuquerque Tucson Fresno Providence

View all city cost guides →

Popular City Comparisons

Side-by-side private school tuition for top US city pairs — see which city is cheaper and by how much.

New York vs Boston Los Angeles vs San Francisco Houston vs Dallas Miami vs Tampa Chicago vs Indianapolis Seattle vs Portland Atlanta vs Charlotte Denver vs Phoenix Dallas vs Austin New York vs Chicago San Francisco vs Houston Boston vs Philadelphia Los Angeles vs San Diego Nashville vs Atlanta New York vs Philadelphia Miami vs Orlando Chicago vs Columbus Raleigh vs Charlotte Austin vs San Antonio Seattle vs Denver Columbus vs Cincinnati Los Angeles vs Phoenix Washington DC vs Atlanta San Francisco vs Phoenix

Browse all city comparisons →

By Grade Level

Private School Tuition by Grade — All Levels Kindergarten Tuition Cost Elementary School Tuition Middle School Tuition High School Tuition

Cost Guides & Comparisons

K–12 Total Cost Calculator Private vs Public School Cost Private vs Homeschool Cost Private vs Charter School Cost Private vs Montessori Cost Private vs Catholic School Cost Private vs Boarding School Cost Monthly Cost Breakdown Affordability Calculator — Score A–F Can I Afford Private School? Financial Aid Calculator Financial Aid Guide Tax Benefits for Private School Boarding School Cost Is Private School Worth It? Tuition Changes 2025 to 2026 ▲
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