For the 2026 school year, there are 664 private schools serving 120,053 students in Missouri (there are 2,474 public schools, serving 891,639 students). 12% of all K-12 students in Missouri attend private schools (compared to the national average of 10%).
The average private school tuition is $12,565 for elementary schools and $15,027 for high schools (view national tuition averages).
The top-ranked private schools in Missouri include St. Louis University High School, Barstow School, and Cor Jesu Academy.
The average acceptance rate is 85% (view national acceptance rates). Minority enrollment is 20% and the student-teacher ratio is 12:1.
Top-Ranked Missouri Private Schools by County (2026)
County
# Schools
# Students
% of K-12 Students in Private Schools
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked private schools in Missouri?
The top-ranked private schools in Missouri include St. Louis University High School, Barstow School, and Cor Jesu Academy.
How many private schools are located in Missouri?
There are 664 private schools are located in Missouri.
How much do private schools cost in Missouri?
The average private school tuition in Missouri is $12,565 for elementary schools and $15,027 for high schools
How diverse are private schools in Missouri?
Approximately 20% of students in Missouri private schools are minority students (compared to the national percentage).
What percentage of students in Missouri go to private school?
12% of all K-12 students in Missouri attend private schools (compared to the national average of 10%).
What percentage of private schools are religiously affiliated in Missouri?
Which private schools in Missouri are often viewed compared to one another?
Popular comparisons of private schools in Missouri include: Westside Christian Academy vs. Maranatha Baptist Academy, St. Paul Lutheran School vs. St. Joseph School, St. Johns Lutheran School vs. Holy Family School
Recent Articles
Free Private Schools & Voucher Programs in 2025
Updated guide to free private schools and school voucher programs, 2025 policies, costs, equity issues, and how families access tuition support.
Social Emotional Learning 2025: Policy, Practice and Outcomes
Updated 2025 review of social emotional learning in schools, research outcomes, key trends, challenges and future paths for parents and educators.
Private School Admissions for Siblings: Costs and Timing
Learn how private school admissions for siblings affect costs, discounts, and timing strategies for families planning multiple enrollments.


