Private School Cost: Des Moines vs Topeka
Both cities average about the same for private school tuition.
Bottom Line
Both cities average around $6,900/year for private school. The difference shows up in school type: religious schools are much cheaper than independent prep.
Des Moines
IA
$6,900
avg tuition/year
Topeka
KS
$6,900
avg tuition/year
Tuition by School Type & Grade
| Category | Des Moines | Topeka | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| All Schools (Average) | $6,900/yr | $6,900/yr | Same |
| Religious Schools | $4,800/yr | $4,800/yr | Same |
| Independent/Prep | $14,400/yr | $14,300/yr | +$100 |
| Elementary (K-5) | $5,900/yr | $5,900/yr | Same |
| Middle School (6-8) | $6,900/yr | $6,900/yr | Same |
| High School (9-12) | $8,300/yr | $8,300/yr | Same |
K-12 Total Cost (13 Years)
Des Moines
$89,700
Topeka
$89,700
Sample Schools
Des Moines
Dowling Catholic High School
Catholic · 9–12 · $10,400/yr
Des Moines Christian School
Christian · PK–12 · $9,600-$12,000/yr
Topeka
Topeka Collegiate School
Independent · K–8 · $12,400/yr
Hayden Catholic High School
Catholic · 9–12 · $9,400/yr
About This Comparison
This comparison uses NCES Private School Universe Survey data, adjusted for metro-level cost-of-living differences. "Average tuition" blends religious schools (Catholic, Christian) and independent day/prep schools. Religious schools typically cost 60-70% less than independent schools in the same city.
Grade-level estimates (elementary, middle, high) are derived from the city average using national grade-level multipliers. High school tuition typically runs 15-25% above the city average; elementary runs 10-20% below.