For the 2025-26 school year, there are 604 private schools serving 113,875 students in Tennessee (there are 1,925 public schools, serving 1,010,422 students). 10% of all K-12 students in Tennessee attend private schools (compared to the national average of 10%).
The average private school tuition is $13,593 for elementary schools and $14,671 for high schools (view national tuition averages).
The top-ranked private schools in Tennessee include Memphis University School, Lipscomb Academy, and University School Of Nashville.
The average acceptance rate is 83% (view national acceptance rates). Minority enrollment is 20% and the student-teacher ratio is 10:1.
Top-Ranked Tennessee Private Schools by County (2025-26)
Popular neighborhoods: East Memphis (8 schools), Green Hills (8 schools), Cedar Bluff (5 schools), Midtown (5 schools), Hardin Valley (4 schools).
County
# Schools
# Students
% of K-12 Students in Private Schools
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked private schools in Tennessee?
The top-ranked private schools in Tennessee include Memphis University School, Lipscomb Academy, and University School Of Nashville.
How many private schools are located in Tennessee?
There are 604 private schools are located in Tennessee.
How much do private schools cost in Tennessee?
The average private school tuition in Tennessee is $13,593 for elementary schools and $14,671 for high schools
How diverse are private schools in Tennessee?
Approximately 20% of students in Tennessee private schools are minority students (compared to the national percentage).
What percentage of students in Tennessee go to private school?
10% of all K-12 students in Tennessee attend private schools (compared to the national average of 10%).
What percentage of private schools are religiously affiliated in Tennessee?
Which private schools in Tennessee are often viewed compared to one another?
Popular comparisons of private schools in Tennessee include: Crossroads Christian Academy vs. Lenoir City Christian Academy, Greater Things Christian School vs. United Christian Academy, United Christian Academy vs. Greater Things Christian School
Recent Articles
Private School Jobs in 2025: Trends, Salaries and Career Insights
Explore private school jobs in 2025 with updated hiring trends, salary data, demand areas and career guidance for educators and policymakers.
Independent Schools in Africa: Updated 2025 Overview
Explore the latest data, trends, costs and impacts of independent schools in Africa in 2025 for parents, educators and policymakers.
How to Start a Private School in 2025: Complete K–12 Guide
A practical, updated guide to starting a private K–12 school in 2025, covering legal steps, planning, finance, and enrollment strategy.


