For the 2025-26 school year, there are 433 private schools serving 72,892 students in South Carolina (there are 1,274 public schools, serving 793,779 students). 8% of all K-12 students in South Carolina attend private schools (compared to the national average of 10%).
The average private school tuition is $10,219 for elementary schools and $10,368 for high schools (view national tuition averages).
The top-ranked private schools in South Carolina include Mead Hall Episcopal School, Heathwood Hall Episcopal School, and Hammond School.
The average acceptance rate is 87% (view national acceptance rates). Minority enrollment is 18% and the student-teacher ratio is 11:1.
Top-Ranked South Carolina Private Schools by County (2025-26)
Popular neighborhoods: West Ashley (12 schools), James Island (4 schools), Harleston Village (3 schools), Greenview (2 schools), Midtown Downtown (2 schools).
County
# Schools
# Students
% of K-12 Students in Private Schools
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked private schools in South Carolina?
The top-ranked private schools in South Carolina include Mead Hall Episcopal School, Heathwood Hall Episcopal School, and Hammond School.
How many private schools are located in South Carolina?
There are 433 private schools are located in South Carolina.
How much do private schools cost in South Carolina?
The average private school tuition in South Carolina is $10,219 for elementary schools and $10,368 for high schools
How diverse are private schools in South Carolina?
Approximately 18% of students in South Carolina private schools are minority students (compared to the national percentage).
What percentage of students in South Carolina go to private school?
8% of all K-12 students in South Carolina attend private schools (compared to the national average of 10%).
What percentage of private schools are religiously affiliated in South Carolina?
Which private schools in South Carolina are often viewed compared to one another?
Popular comparisons of private schools in South Carolina include: Mullins Marion Christian School vs. Pee Dee Academy, Horizons Christian Academy vs. Hawthorne Christian Academy, Barnwell Christian School vs. Jefferson Davis Academy
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.


