If you’re wondering where the best schools are, we put together a list of the top 10

Here’s a quick look at five of the top K-12 school districts in America, based on recent rankings by Niche and others:

  1. Irvine, California
    Located in Orange County, Irvine is often praised for safe neighborhoods, high educational expectations and well-resourced schools. According to Niche, Irvine ranks among the top “Cities with the Best Public Schools in America.” Niche+1 Families moving for school quality frequently consider it for its academic reputation and teacher strength.
  2. Bellevue, Washington
    Just east of Seattle, Bellevue regularly appears near the top of national lists for school quality. It’s valued for its strong overall academic performance, robust teacher quality and good college-readiness outcomes. Niche For families seeking high performing public schools in the Pacific Northwest, this city is a frequent mention.
  3. The Woodlands, Texas
    This master-planned community north of Houston scores very well when it comes to public education. Reviewers note abundant extracurricular options, strong academic outcomes and a family-friendly environment. Niche It presents a compelling choice for those looking to balance suburban living with top-tier schooling.
  4. Ann Arbor, Michigan
    Home to a major university and rich cultural amenities, Ann Arbor also enjoys an excellent public school system. Community engagement, teacher quality and rigorous academics all contribute to its solid reputation among cities with the best schools. Niche
  5. Dublin, Ohio (Greater Columbus region)
    While not always included among the top national cities, Dublin is notable for having one of the leading school districts in the Columbus area — Dublin City Schools, which earned top ratings in the region. Niche It’s a strong pick for families seeking quality public education in Ohio.

Choosing where to live often comes down to the quality of local schools, and cities like Irvine, Bellevue, The Woodlands, Ann Arbor, and Dublin consistently rise to the top for their commitment to education. Each community blends academic excellence with supportive environments, passionate educators, and strong parental involvement — the foundation for lifelong learning. Whether you’re relocating for work, family, or opportunity, these cities prove that great schools and great communities go hand in hand.