Private School Cost: Lowell vs Worcester
Both cities average about the same for private school tuition.
Bottom Line
Both cities average around $23,600/year for private school. The difference shows up in school type: religious schools are much cheaper than independent prep.
Lowell
MA
$23,600
avg tuition/year
Worcester
MA
$23,600
avg tuition/year
Tuition by School Type & Grade
| Category | Lowell | Worcester | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| All Schools (Average) | $23,600/yr | $23,600/yr | Same |
| Religious Schools | $12,800/yr | $12,800/yr | Same |
| Independent/Prep | $48,100/yr | $48,100/yr | Same |
| Elementary (K-5) | $20,100/yr | $20,100/yr | Same |
| Middle School (6-8) | $23,600/yr | $23,600/yr | Same |
| High School (9-12) | $28,300/yr | $28,300/yr | Same |
K-12 Total Cost (13 Years)
Lowell
$306,800
Worcester
$306,800
Sample Schools
Lowell
Lowell Catholic High School
Catholic · 9–12 · $12,400/yr
St. Michael Academy (Lowell)
Catholic · K–8 · $10,800-$12,800/yr
Worcester
Holy Name Central Catholic High School
Catholic · 9–12 · $13,800/yr
Worcester Academy
Independent · 9–12 · $36,400/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.