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California Private Schools By Tuition Cost

The average private school tuition in California is $18,350 per year (2026-27).

The private elementary school average tuition cost is $17,768 per year and the private high school average is $23,881 per year.

The private school with the lowest tuition cost is Pillars Academy and Fountain Valley Montessori Center, each with a tuition of $1,030.

Quick Facts (2026-27)

# CA Schools Ranked: 1,487
Top 20 Range (Tuition): $1,030–$1,300
CA School Avg.: $18,349
National School Avg.: $12,181

Quick Facts (2026-27)

# CA Schools Ranked: 1,487
Top 20 Range (Tuition): $1,030–$1,300
CA School Avg.: $18,349
National School Avg.: $12,181

California Average Tuition Cost (Trends)

View Data

Year	California (CA) avg
2025	$18,076
2024	$17,195
2023	$16,660
2022	$15,979
2021	$15,298
2020	$14,748
2019	$14,369
2018	$13,813
2017	$13,422
2016	$12,852
2015	$11,932

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Show school map — California (tuition range: $1,030–$1,300, avg $18,349)

Tuition Cost Range: $1,030 $1,450 Avg. Tuition Cost: $1,258

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the California average private schools tuition?

The California average private schools tuition is $18,350 for 2026-27.

What are the private schools with the lowest tuition cost in California?

The top ranked private schools in California include Fountain Valley Montessori Center, Pillars Academy and Bonita Learning Academy.

What is private high school and private elementary school with lowest tuition cost in California?

The private high school with lowest tuition cost in California is Kids World School, Inc & Cornerstone Academy Of L., with a tuition of $1200. The private elementary school with lowest tuition cost is Fountain Valley Montessori Center, with a tuition of $1030.

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