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California Private Elementary Schools By Tuition Cost

Name: California Average Tuition Cost Trends (Elementary)
Creator: Private School Review
License: https://www.privateschoolreview.com/terms

The average private elementary school tuition in California is $17,200 per year (2026-27).

The private elementary school with the lowest tuition is Fountain Valley Montessori Center, with a tuition of $1,030.

Quick Facts (26-27)

# CA Schools Ranked: 1,113
Top 20 Range (Tuition): $1,030–$2,200
CA School Avg.: $17,196
National School Avg.: $10,510

Quick Facts (26-27)

# CA Schools Ranked: 1,113
Top 20 Range (Tuition): $1,030–$2,200
CA School Avg.: $17,196
National School Avg.: $10,510

California Average Tuition Cost (Trends)

Showing 2016–2025. Full 11-year historical data available below ↓

Total Growth: +36.0% (+$4,623 since 2016)

View Data

Year	National avg	California (CA) avg	YoY Change ($)	YoY Change (%)
2025	$14,043	$17,472	▲ +$449	▲ +2.6%
2024	$13,682	$17,023	▲ +$694	▲ +4.3%
2023	$13,130	$16,329	▲ +$846	▲ +5.5%
2022	$12,589	$15,483	▲ +$397	▲ +2.6%
2021	$12,335	$15,086	▲ +$670	▲ +4.6%
2020	$12,023	$14,416	▲ +$406	▲ +2.9%
2019	$11,773	$14,010	▲ +$320	▲ +2.3%
2018	$11,504	$13,690	▲ +$416	▲ +3.1%
2017	$11,214	$13,274	▲ +$425	▲ +3.3%
2016	$10,830	$12,849	▲ +$649	▲ +5.3%
2015	$10,424	$12,200	—	—

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Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) Private School Universe Survey (PSS), direct school submissions, and proprietary website research and analysis by Private School Review.

Note: Data may not be displayed on any public-facing website or service that replicates or resembles a school search or review portal without prior written permission. See our Terms of Service.

Show school map — California (tuition range: $1,030–$2,200, avg $17,196)

Tuition Cost Range: $1,030 $3,075 Avg. Tuition Cost: $2,032

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the California average private elementary schools tuition?

The California average private elementary schools tuition is $17,598 for 2026-27.

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

The top ranked private elementary schools in California include Fountain Valley Montessori Center, Bethlehem Lutheran School and Kids World School, Inc & Cornerstone Academy Of L..

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