The national average private school tuition is $14,879 per year (2026).
The private elementary school average tuition cost is $13,908 per year and the private high school average is $17,914 per year.
The state with the highest average private school tuition is Connecticut with a $28,501 average tuition cost. The state with the lowest tuition cost is South Dakota with an average cost of $6,448.
Tuition Range: $6,448
$28,501
Avg. Tuition: $14,879
Average Private School Tuition Cost (2026)
State
Average Tuition
High Schools
Elementary
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the national average private school tuition ?
The national average private school tuition is $14,879 for 2026.
What are the most expensive private schools in the United States?
The most expensive private schools in the United States include Valley View School, The Greenwood School and Middlebridge School.
What is the state with the highest average private school tuition?
The state with the highest average private school tuition is Connecticut.
Recent Articles
How to Ask About Staff Screening Without Apologizing
Parents should feel comfortable asking how private schools screen employees. Learn which questions matter, what answers to expect, and why transparency about hiring and student safety is a hallmark of a well-managed school.
What Facility Safety Tells You About School Oversight
A school's facilities reveal far more than appearance. Learn how building maintenance, emergency preparedness, and campus safety practices can help parents evaluate school leadership, oversight, and long-term commitment to student well-being.
Is the School Legally a School? A Parent Verification Checklist
Before enrolling your child in a private school, learn how to verify that it is legally operating, properly accredited, and authorized to issue recognized diplomas with this practical parent checklist for making a confident school choice.