For the 2025 school year, there are 1,816 private schools serving 433,050 students in New York (there are 4,819 public schools, serving 2,508,712 students). 15% of all K-12 students in New York attend private schools (compared to the national average of 10%).
The average private school tuition is $22,346 for elementary schools and $26,788 for high schools (view national tuition averages).
The top-ranked private schools in New York include Friends Academy, Emma Willard School, and Poly Prep Country Day School.
The average acceptance rate is 74% (view national acceptance rates). Minority enrollment is 40% and the student-teacher ratio is 10:1.
Top Ranked New York Private Schools by County (2025)
Popular neighborhoods: Borough Park (30 schools), Midwood (28 schools), Crown Heights (19 schools), Williamsburg (19 schools), East Bronx (16 schools).
County
# Schools
# Students
% of K-12 Students in Private Schools
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top ranked private schools in New York?
The top-ranked private schools in New York include Friends Academy, Emma Willard School, and Poly Prep Country Day School.
How many private schools are located in New York?
There are 1,816 private schools are located in New York.
How much do private schools cost in New York?
The average private school tuition in New York is $22,346 for elementary schools and $26,788 for high schools
How diverse are private schools in New York?
Approximately 40% of students in New York private schools are minority students (compared to the national percentage).
What percentage of students in New York go to private school?
15% of all K-12 students in New York attend private schools (compared to the national average of 10%).
What percentage of private schools are religiously affiliated in New York?
Which private schools in New York are often viewed compared to one another?
Popular comparisons of private schools in New York include: Downtown Little School vs. The Lang School, Mountain Lake Academy vs. Northwood School, Mandala School vs. Aurora Waldorf School
Recent Articles
Top 5 Mistakes Parents Make When Applying to Private Schools
Avoid the most common missteps families make during the private school admissions process. From starting too late to focusing on prestige over fit, this guide helps parents navigate applications with confidence and clarity.
How to Afford Private School: Real Tips for Middle‑Class Families
Practical strategies for middle-class families to make private school affordable—covering financial aid, scholarships, tax-advantaged savings, flexible payment options, and smart budgeting tips.
Navigating Scholarships and Financial Aid at Private Schools
A practical guide to understanding financial aid and scholarships at private schools—covering the application process, key differences between aid types, and strategies for maximizing tuition support.
