We’ve sifted through rankings for 604 schools in the Houston area to make your search for the best school a breeze. To give you a clear picture, we categorized the top public schools based on the Houston region (Central, Southwest, Southeast, Northeast, and North), price points, neighborhoods, and school levels (elementary, middle, and high schools).
But we didn’t stop there. We analyzed data from over 641,000 home sales dating back to 2000, focusing on homes zoned to 275 public schools. The results? On average, homes near the top-ranked public elementary schools came with a heftier price tag—and for good reason. Land values in these zones were higher, and these homes also appreciated faster. Buyers were willing to pay more to be in these desirable areas, and new construction further pushed up the median home prices.
Investors who hit the jackpot owned properties with larger-than-average lots in these top school zones. Real estate in areas zoned to highly-rated elementary schools saw better appreciation than those near top middle or high schools or even lower-ranked elementary schools. While it’s fantastic to live in a zone that covers top-ranked elementary, middle, and high schools, these areas tend to be small—and often come with a steep price tag.
So, if you’re trying to decide which school zone to prioritize, the data suggests that focusing on top-ranked public elementary schools might be your best bet. And if you’re ready to start your search, we’re here to help. Just drop us a line, and we can set up a custom real estate search tailored to show homes zoned to the specific elementary, middle, or high schools you’re interested in.
Ready to find your dream home in the perfect school zone? Let’s make it happen!
Finding the Best School For You in Houston
Finding the perfect school for your kids is no easy feat. With over 280 public schools and 85 private schools in Houston alone—and even more in the suburbs—it can feel like a maze. Sure, you can Google "Best Elementary Schools in Houston" and get hits like River Oaks Elementary or West U Elementary, but what about finding those elusive school boundary maps that actually fit your budget and lifestyle?
In our research, we found two key trends: homes in top-ranked school zones tend to sell for higher prices (thanks to higher land values) and appreciate at better rates compared to those not in these zones. We based our findings on a mix of ratings from GreatSchools, Niche, TEA, HAR, STAAR Data, and Distinction Designations.
Curious about how we crunched the numbers? We’ve got all the nitty-gritty details laid out for you. If you’re the type who likes to dig into the data and understand exactly how we came up with these insights, head to the methodology section at the end of the article. It’s packed with all the behind-the-scenes info, from our sources to the specific criteria we used to rank these schools.
If you’re interested in checking out homes within specific top-ranked Houston school zones, reach out to Caylee Loville, one of Houston's leading real estate agents, and part of Alumbra Properties. She’s ready to help you find the perfect home that meets both your educational and budget needs.
Find the neighborhoods in Houston with the best public schools!
Your Ultimate Guide to Houston's Top Schools
Central Houston
Best Elementary Schools
Best Middle Schools
Best High Schools
Southwest Houston
Best Elementary Schools
Best Middle Schools
Best High Schools
Southeast Houston
Best Elementary Schools
Best Middle Schools
Best High Schools
Northern Houston
Best Elementary Schools
Best Middle Schools
Best High Schools
Northeast Houston
Best Elementary Schools
Best Middle Schools
Best High Schools
This organized breakdown helps you easily navigate and find the best schools in each Houston region, tailored to your needs.
Central Houston Summary
Top Central Houston Neighborhoods with Excellent School Zones
School Type Neighborhood
Elementary School | Bellaire Area, East End Revitalized, Heights/Greater Heights, Memorial Villages, Memorial West, Oak Forest East, Rice / Museum District, River Oaks Area, Spring Branch, West University/Southside Area
Middle School | Heights/Greater Heights, Memorial Park, Memorial Villages, Memorial West, Montrose, Oak Forest East, Rice / Museum District, River Oaks Area, River Oaks Shopping Area, West University/Southside Area
High School | Bellaire Area, Heights/Greater Heights, Memorial Close In, Memorial Villages, Memorial West, Rice / Museum District, Rice Military/Washington Corridor, Spring Branch, Tanglewood Area, West University/Southside Area
The list of top elementary schools in Houston below includes only public schools with clearly defined boundary maps, located within a 25-minute drive from Downtown Houston. These schools also have a perfect 4 out of 4 Performance Index Ranking and high ratings of 8, 9, or 10 from GreatSchools.org. This selection ensures you’re looking at schools with both strong academic performance and convenient access from central Houston locations.
School Name GreatSchools Rating Neighborhoods Median Home Price 10-Year Appreciation
River Oaks Elem 10 River Oaks Area $2,795,000 72%
Memorial Drive Elem 10 Memorial Villages, Memorial West $2,490,000 38%
Field Elementary 10 Heights/Greater Heights $695,000 74%
Frostwood Elementary 9 Memorial Villages, Memorial West $1,337,000 48%
Horn Elem 9 Bellaire Area $1,200,000 45%
Roberts Elem 9 Medical Center Area, Rice / Museum District $1,150,000 70%
Oak Forest Elem 9 Oak Forest East $1,069,000 127%
Sinclair Elem (Houston) 9 Heights/Greater Heights, Spring Branch, $547,000 56%
Timbergrove/Lazybrook
Nitsch Elem 9 Northwest Houston $232,000 0%
West University Elem 8 West University/Southside Area $1,749,900 76%
Bunker Hill Elem 8 Memorial Villages, Memorial West $1,425,000 50%
Twain Elem 8 Braeswood Place, West University/Southside Area $1,324,000 89%
Condit Elem 8 Bellaire Area, Gulfton $1,198,000 39%
Harvard Elem 8 Heights/Greater Heights $989,500 97%
Valley Oaks Elem 8 Memorial Villages, Spring Branch $949,000 46%
Travis Elem 8 Heights/Greater Heights, Northside $949,000 109%
Helms Elem 8 Heights/Greater Heights $750,000 84%
Lovett Elem 8 Bellaire Area, Meyerland Area $685,000 42%
Kolter Elem 8 Brays Oaks, Meyerland Area $517,500 20%
Lantrip Elem 8 East End Revitalized $419,900 52%
Elrod Elem (Houston) 8 Brays Oaks $417,500 53%
Parker Elem (Houston) 8 Brays Oaks, Meyerland Area $410,000 37%
Davila Elem 8 East End Revitalized $239,450 0%
Windsor Village Elem 8 Five Corners $195,000 -34%
If you’re interested in checking out homes within specific top-ranked Elementary Schools, reach out to Caylee Loville, one of Houston's leading real estate agents, and part of Alumbra Properties. She’s ready to help you find the perfect home that meets both your educational and budget needs.
What’s the Cost of Living Near a Top-Ranked Central Houston Elementary School?
We analyzed last year’s median home prices for top-rated elementary schools in Central Houston. The results, shown above, reflect the median sale prices for single-family homes. Keep in mind that newer or larger homes typically cost 10-15% more than these median figures.
Is Investing in a Home Zoned to a Top Houston Elementary School Worth It?
The table above details the 10-year real estate appreciation trends for homes zoned to top-ranked Houston elementary schools. These properties tend to appreciate more than comparable homes in the area, making them a strong investment over the last decade.
Top Central Houston Neighborhoods with High-Ranked Elementary Schools
River Oaks: Houston’s Elite Neighborhood
River Oaks is one of Houston's most prestigious and centrally located neighborhoods within the Inner Loop. Known for its historic charm, this deed-restricted area features some of the most luxurious homes in the city, including a blend of 1920s and 1930s estates, modern townhomes, and luxury condos.
Why River Oaks Stands Out:
Exclusive Living: A mix of grand estates and gated communities make it one of Houston's priciest areas.
Top Schools: Zoned to top Houston ISD schools like River Oaks Elementary and Lanier Middle, with premier private options such as St. John’s and River Oaks Baptist.
Real Estate Value: Strong appreciation rates over the past decade make it a solid investment.
Prime Location: Close proximity to Downtown, the Medical Center, and the Galleria, with easy access to major highways.
Additionally, River Oaks is home to the exclusive River Oaks Country Club Estates, offering a golf course, tennis courts, pools, and a fitness center.
Memorial Villages: A Cluster of Affluent Communities
The Memorial Villages consist of six unique communities: Hunters Creek, Piney Point, Hedwig, Bunker Hill, Spring Valley, and Hilshire.
Why Memorial Villages Are So Coveted:
- Exclusive Living: With a median home price near $2M and estates exceeding $10M, these neighborhoods are among the most expensive in Houston.
- Top-Tier Schools: Zoned to Spring Branch ISD, the Villages are served by some of Houston’s best schools.
- Independent Governance: Each village operates as an independent city, with its own police and fire departments.
Memorial Villages offer a mix of custom-built homes, renovated vintage properties, and sprawling estates, making it one of the most affluent areas in Greater Houston.
Memorial West: A Diverse and Convenient Neighborhood
Memorial West encompasses over 20 neighborhoods and communities, located just south of I-10.
Why People Love Memorial West:
Strong Communities: The area includes well-established neighborhoods like Talia Trails, Frostwood, Nottingham Forest, Westchester, and Memorial Forest, as well as newer developments.
Convenient Location: Residents enjoy quick access to the Energy Corridor, the Galleria, and Memorial City, making commutes a breeze.
Top-Notch Schools: Parts of Memorial West are zoned to Spring Branch ISD, while others fall under Houston ISD, with several top-ranked schools in the area.
Memorial West also offers a variety of retail and dining options, including Memorial City Mall, CityCentre Plaza, and Town & Country Village, along with easy access to parks and trails for outdoor enthusiasts.
Top Middle Schools in Central Houston
The list of top middle schools in Houston below focuses on public schools with clearly defined boundary maps, all within a 25-minute drive from Downtown Houston. These schools have a perfect 4 out of 4 Performance Index Ranking and ratings between 6 and 10 from GreatSchools.org, ensuring you’re getting a quality education close to the heart of the city.
School Name
Lanier Middle
Memorial Middle
Burbank Middle
Hogg Middle
Spring Branch Middle
Pershing Middle
Hamilton Middle (Houston)
Gregory-Lincoln Elem
Black Middle
Johnston Middle
Edison Middle
GreatSchools Rating
9
9
8
7
6
6
6
6
6
6
6
If you’re interested in checking out homes within specific top-ranked Houston school zones, reach out to Caylee Loville, one of Houston's leading real estate agents, and part of Alumbra Properties. She’s ready to help you find the perfect home that meets both your educational and budget needs.
School Name
Memorial High
Heights High
Bellaire High
If you’re interested in checking out homes within specific top-ranked Houston school zones, reach out to Caylee Loville, one of Houston's leading real estate agents, and part of Alumbra Properties. She’s ready to help you find the perfect home that meets both your educational and budget needs.
School Type:
Elementary School
Middle School
High School
School Name
Commonwealth Elem
Wolman Elem
Walker Station Elem
Griffin Elem (Katy)
Wilchester Elem
Cornerstone Elem
James E Randolph Elem
Colony Meadows Elem
Woodcreek Elem
Stanley Elem
Wilson Elem (Katy)
Keiko Davidson Elem
Campbell Elem (Lamar)
Sienna Crossing Elem
Kilpatrick Elem
Judge James C Adolphus Elem
Frost Elem (Lamar)Manford Williams Elem
Needville Elem
Rummel Creek Elem
Bush Elem
Alexander Elem (Katy)
Holland Elem (Katy)
Huggins Elem
Pattison Elem
Shafer Elem
Nottingham Country Elem
Dickinson Elem (Lamar)
Hubenak Elem
Fielder Elem
Hutchison Elem
Oakland Elem
Mcneill Elem
Brazos Bend Elem
Oyster Creek Elem
Petrosky Elem
Mahanay Elem
GreatSchools Rating
10
10
10
10
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
Neighborhoods
Bellaire Area, Briar Hollow, Greenway Plaza, Highland Village / Midlane, Montrose, Rice / Museum District, River Oaks Area, River Oaks Shopping Area, Royden Oaks/Afton Oaks, Upper Kirby
Memorial Villages, Memorial West
Montrose, Northwest Houston
Cottage Grove, Heights/Greater Heights, Memorial Park, Rice Military/Washington Corridor, Timbergrove/Lazybrook, Washington East/Sabine
Memorial Close In, Memorial Villages, Memorial West, Spring Branch, Tanglewood Area
Bellaire Area, Braeswood Place, Gulfton, Knollwood/Woodside, Medical Center Area, Meyerland Area, Rice / Museum District, West University/Southside Area, Willow Meadows Area
Heights/Greater Heights, Northwest Houston, Timbergrove/Lazybrook
Downtown Houston, Midtown Houston, Montrose, River Oaks Shopping Area
Garden Oaks, Heights/Greater Heights, Northwest Houston, Oak Forest East, Oak Forest West, Shepherd Park Plaza Area, Spring Branch, Timbergrove/Lazybrook
Brays Oaks, Meyerland Area, Willow Meadows Area
East End Revitalized
Median Home Price
$1,200,000
$1,099,999
$297,000
$650,000
$1,215,000
$1,150,000
$624,900
$599,000
$534,900
$420,900
$260,000
10-Year Appreciation
64%
41%
56%
62%
52%
53%
70%
25%
53%
29%
36%
What’s the Cost of Living Near a Top-Ranked Central Houston Middle School?
We analyzed last year’s median home prices for top-rated middle schools in Central Houston. The results, shown above, reflect the median sale prices for single-family homes. Keep in mind that newer or larger homes typically cost 10-15% more than these median figures.
Is Investing in a Home Zoned to a Top Central Houston Middle School Worth It?
The table above details the 10-year real estate appreciation trends for homes zoned to top-ranked Houston middle schools. These properties tend to appreciate more than comparable homes in the area, making them a strong investment over the last decade.
Top Central Houston Neighborhoods with Highly Rated Middle Schools
Looking for a home in Central Houston with access to top middle schools? These neighborhoods stand out for offering both quality education and desirable living environments, making them prime choices for families prioritizing academics.
Bellaire: A Blend of Small-Town Charm and Big-City Convenience
Bellaire is one of Houston's most beloved neighborhoods, offering a small-town feel with easy access to urban amenities.
Why Bellaire is Highly Sought After:
Excellent Accessibility: Located near major roads like Loop 610 and Bellaire Boulevard, making commuting a breeze.
Prime Location: Nestled within Houston, providing quick access to the Texas Medical Center, Galleria, and Downtown.
Spacious Lots: Offers larger lot sizes compared to nearby neighborhoods like West University.
Top-Ranked Schools: Home to some of the best schools in Texas.
Navigating Bellaire’s real estate can be complex due to varying school zones, proximity to major thoroughfares, and diverse builders.
Highland Village/Midlane: A Sought-After Houston Neighborhood
Highland Village/Midlane is a highly desirable neighborhood located just 6 miles west of downtown Houston, near the Galleria/Uptown area and River Oaks.
Why Residents Love Highland Village/Midlane:
Prime Location: Easy access to major business hubs like the Galleria and Greenway Plaza, with convenient routes to Downtown and the Texas Medical Center.
Top Schools: Zoned to some of Houston’s best schools, including Lanier Middle School.
Strong Real Estate Market: The area boasts impressive land value appreciation, with median home prices surpassing $1 million.
The neighborhood also benefits from an active civic club that enforces deed restrictions, maintains common areas, and enhances security.
Montrose: A Lively and Accessible Houston Neighborhood
Montrose is a dynamic neighborhood that blends history with modernity, featuring a diverse mix of historic homes, contemporary custom builds, and new townhomes. Its prime location makes it one of Houston's most accessible areas.
Why Montrose is So Popular:
Cultural Hub: Home to museums, parks, and historic districts, Montrose is a key cultural center in Houston.
Bustling Street Life: Main streets like Shepherd Drive and Montrose Boulevard are packed with shops, restaurants, and nightlife.
Strong Real Estate Growth: The neighborhood has seen some of the best appreciation rates in Houston.
Located just 3 miles from Downtown, Montrose is nestled between Buffalo Bayou and the Southwest Freeway, making it a highly desirable area with a unique blend of old and new.
Top High Schools in Central Houston
GreatSchools Rating
6
5
5
Neighborhoods
Memorial Close In, Memorial Villages, Memorial West, Spring Branch, Tanglewood Area
Cottage Grove, Heights/Greater Heights, Midtown Houston, Rice Military/Washington Corridor, Washington East/Sabine
Bellaire Area, Braeswood Place, Brays Oaks, Gulfton, Knollwood/Woodside, Medical Center Area, Meyerland Area, Rice / Museum District, West University/Southside Area, Willow Meadows Area
Median Home Price
$1,300,000
$700,000
$649,000
10-Year Appreciation
52%
70%
32%
What’s the Cost of Living Near a Top-Ranked Central Houston High School?
We analyzed last year’s median home prices for top-rated High Schools in Central Houston. The results, shown above, reflect the median sale prices for single-family homes. Keep in mind that newer or larger homes typically cost 10-15% more than these median figures.
Is Investing in a Home Zoned to a Top Central Houston High School Worth It?
The table above details the 10-year real estate appreciation trends for homes zoned to top-ranked Houston High Schools. These properties tend to appreciate more than comparable homes in the area, making them a strong investment over the last decade.
Best Central Houston Neighborhoods Zoned To Top High Schools
Memorial Close In: An Upscale Houston Neighborhood
Memorial Close In consists of upscale neighborhoods just west of Loop 610, known for their luxurious homes and tree-lined streets.
Why Memorial Close In is Highly Sought After:
Convenient Location: Just 10 minutes from the Galleria and Energy Corridor, and 15 minutes from Downtown Houston.
Top-Rated Schools: Home to some of Houston’s best schools, including Spring Branch Middle, known for academic excellence.
Proximity to Parks: Close to several parks offering activities like hiking, biking, and golfing.
As one of Houston’s most expensive areas, Memorial Close In offers easy access to retail, dining, and entertainment options.
The Memorial Villages: A Collection of Prestigious Neighborhoods
The Memorial Villages encompass six distinct communities: Hunters Creek, Piney Point, Hedwig, Bunker Hill, Spring Valley, and Hilshire.
Why the Memorial Villages Are So Desirable:
Exclusive Living: With median home prices near $2M and estates exceeding $10M, these are some of Houston’s most expensive neighborhoods.
Top Schools: Zoned to Spring Branch ISD, the area includes some of Houston’s best-rated schools.
Independent Governance: Each village functions as an independent city with its own police and fire departments.
This affluent area features a mix of custom-built contemporary homes, beautifully restored vintage houses, and sprawling estates.
Memorial West: A Diverse and Convenient Neighborhood
Memorial West, comprising over 20 neighborhoods and communities south of I-10, is a large and diverse area appealing to many homebuyers.
Why Memorial West Stands Out:
Established Communities: Home to well-established neighborhoods like Talia Trails, Frostwood, Nottingham Forest, Westchester, and Memorial Forest, alongside newer developments.
Convenient Commutes: Just minutes from key hubs like the Energy Corridor, Galleria, and Memorial City.
Top Schools: Zoned to either Spring Branch ISD or Houston ISD, with several top-rated schools in the area.
Residents also enjoy a variety of retail and dining options, including Memorial City Mall, CityCentre Plaza, and Town & Country Village, plus easy access to parks and trails.
Top Elementary Schools in Southwest Houston
Looking for the best elementary schools in Southwest Houston? This area boasts several top-rated public schools, providing excellent education and a supportive environment for young students. These schools are well-regarded for their strong academic programs, experienced teachers, and active parent communities, making them some of the most sought-after options for families in the region.
Neighborhood:
Fort Bend County North / Richmond, Fort Bend South / Richmond, Fulshear/South Brookshire, Katy Southeast, Katy Southwest, Memorial West, Missouri City Area, Sienna Area, Sugar Land South, Sugar Land West
Fort Bend County North / Richmond, Fort Bend South / Richmond, Fulshear/South Brookshire, Katy Southeast, Katy Southwest, Memorial West, Missouri City Area, Sienna Area, Sugar Land South, Sugar Land West
Fort Bend County North / Richmond, Fort Bend South / Richmond, Fulshear/South Brookshire, Katy Southeast, Katy Southwest, Memorial West, Missouri City Area, Sienna Area, Sugar Land South, Sugar Land West
The following list highlights the best public elementary schools in Southwest Houston, each within the Houston Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA). These schools are all within a 60-minute drive from Downtown Houston, feature clearly defined boundary maps, and boast a perfect 4 out of 4 Performance Index Ranking along with an 8, 9, or 10 rating from GreatSchools.org. These criteria ensure you’re looking at the top-rated schools in the area, providing quality education and a strong community environment.
Median Home Price
$1,300,000
$700,000
$649,000
10-Year Appreciation
52%
70%
32%