Best School Districts Near Phoenix for Families
The Phoenix metro’s school landscape is shaped by Arizona’s district structure, where numerous independent districts serve different communities across the Valley. This creates significant variation in school quality between districts, making school research essential for families. Here’s your guide to the top districts.
Gilbert Public Schools
Gilbert Public Schools consistently ranks among the top districts in Arizona. The district serves the town of Gilbert and surrounding areas, operating multiple high schools including Gilbert, Mesquite, and Highland. The district is known for strong STEM programs, competitive athletics, and high graduation rates.
Gilbert’s family-oriented community and strong schools make it one of the most popular suburban choices for families. Housing in the Gilbert district typically ranges from $350,000 to $700,000.
Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD)
SUSD serves Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, and portions of northeast Phoenix. The district is known for innovative programming including the International Baccalaureate program at Coronado High School and strong arts and athletics across its schools. The district’s magnet programs and specialized academies provide diverse educational pathways.
Housing in the SUSD boundaries ranges widely from $300,000 to over $1 million, reflecting Scottsdale’s diverse neighborhoods.
Chandler Unified School District (CUSD)
CUSD serves Chandler and portions of Gilbert and Tempe. The district has invested heavily in technology integration and career pathways aligned with the local tech industry. Hamilton High School is regularly recognized as one of the top public high schools in Arizona.
Housing in the CUSD area ranges from $300,000 to $650,000, with strong value for the school quality provided.
Higley Unified School District
Higley USD serves portions of Gilbert and Queen Creek. Despite its smaller size, the district has earned a reputation for academic excellence and community engagement. The district’s rapid growth has been accompanied by facility investment and program expansion.
Housing in the Higley district ranges from $350,000 to $600,000.
Paradise Valley Unified School District (PVUSD)
PVUSD serves Paradise Valley, north Scottsdale, and portions of north Phoenix. The district is known for strong academic programs and competitive athletics. Pinnacle High School and Paradise Valley High School are among the district’s flagship schools.
Housing ranges from $350,000 to $800,000-plus.
Deer Valley Unified School District
Deer Valley USD serves north Phoenix and portions of Peoria. The district has grown significantly and offers strong programming across its schools. Mountain Ridge and Boulder Creek high schools are notable. Housing ranges from $300,000 to $550,000.
Open Enrollment and Charter Options
Arizona’s open enrollment policy allows students to attend schools outside their home district, providing flexibility for families. Additionally, Arizona has one of the most developed charter school landscapes in the country. Notable charter networks including BASIS Schools (multiple Valley locations) and Great Hearts Academies consistently rank among the nation’s top public schools.
BASIS schools, in particular, have received national attention for their rigorous classical education model, with multiple Valley campuses. These charter options mean families can access excellent education without necessarily living in the highest-priced school districts.
The Bottom Line
The Phoenix metro offers strong school options through both traditional districts and Arizona’s extensive charter landscape. The key is matching your family’s educational priorities with the right district or school while factoring in housing costs. Factor school access into your neighborhood search and explore both district and charter options.