Boston may be famous for its stunning harbor and fascinating history, but it is also one of the best cities in the country for education. In fact, Massachusetts was recently recognized as the best state school system in the U.S.
You probably know Boston for Harvard University and MIT, but Greater Boston also has plenty of excellent public schools, making it an outstanding choice for families and young adults. As data shows, more than half of the area’s schools are in the top 25% nationally.
So, which school districts truly stand out in the Greater Boston area? What makes them exceptional? We will break it all down below.
Lexington Public Schools
The ‘Birthplace of American Liberty’ is an exceptional place to call home! Thanks to its rich history, magnificent outdoor spaces, and excellent education, it’s a town perfect for families. In fact, schools here consistently rank among the top districts in Massachusetts, with Lexington High School frequently listed as one of the state’s top four high schools.
Besides its fantastic public schools, there are many great private institutions, such as the Lexington Christian Academy. Living in Lexington also means you’ll be close to excellent higher education opportunities, such as Brandeis University and Bentley University.
Newton Public Schools
If access to high-quality education is at the top of your priorities, you should consider looking into Newton. One of the largest school districts in Boston (with an enrollment of nearly 13,000) is home to four middle schools and two high schools. The best among them is considered Newton South, which offers slightly better college readiness and test scores.
It’s worth noting that Newton is also recognized for its athletic programs (it is the home of the Boston Marathon, after all), which make it an excellent choice for families involved in sports.
Dover-Sherborn Regional School District
Rolling green hills and farms, beautiful parks, and a prestigious school system – it’s easy to see why the town of Dover has become increasingly popular among families. Living here means you can have the best of both worlds – you’ll be close to Boston, while still enjoying a more rural feel.
When it comes to education, Dover-Sherborn High School is recognized as one of the top-performing public high schools in the state. In fact, it has been named the top high school in Massachusetts for nine years running.
Weston Public Schools
Big city life is not for everyone. If you’re someone who loves the outdoors, Weston – with its rural atmosphere and easy access to other parts of the Bay State – may be a perfect fit. In fact, driving through the town’s suburbs feels like journeying through a forest, as there are so many green spaces and parks to take advantage of!
One of the main advantages of Weston, however, is its educational institutions. Here, you’ll find five public schools, where students can benefit from individualized instruction and plenty of opportunities for extracurricular activities. Boston’s colleges and universities are also within easy reach.
When choosing a home, access to top-tier educational institutions is often a key factor for families. The Sarkis Team understands the unique value of each Greater Boston community, so we’d love to help you find the perfect home in a district that fits your family's needs! Contact our team today for more information.
Resources
- Niche – Best School Districts in the Boston Metro Area
- Boston Magazine – Best Public High Schools in Greater Boston (2024)
- U.S. News – Best High Schools in Boston, MA Area (2024 Rankings)
- Boston Agent Magazine – Greater Boston’s Top School Districts (2016)
FAQ
What is the average home price in towns with top-rated school districts in Greater Boston?
The median single‑family home price across Greater Boston recently surpassed $1 million, highlighting the area’s strong demand and overall property value.
What should I consider when buying a home in a top-rated Greater Boston school district?
You should weigh factors like school catchment zones, proximity to amenities, and housing affordability. Keep in mind that towns with top-rated districts tend to feature high per-capita incomes and competitive home prices.
Are there any school choice or transfer programs that allow Boston residents to attend suburban schools?
Yes! The METCO program enables Boston-resident K–12 students to apply to attend public schools in over 30 participating suburbs