The Best Schools Near Atlanta, GA
When looking for a new place to call home, there’s typically one important thing on families' minds: the quality of local schools. Finding a home that's zoned for a highly-rated school can not only secure a bright future for your children but also protect your property value.
In the vibrant and growing Atlanta, Georgia, area, the great news is you don’t have to compromise on either. With an array of top-tier schools, Atlanta and its surrounding suburbs offer a world of opportunity. We're here to help you navigate the landscape of the best schools in Atlanta and show you how a new home from Dream Finders Homes can place you near some of these great opportunities.
Why School Quality Matters When Buying a Home
The connection between school zones and property values is no secret. Homes in well-regarded school districts often see higher demand and more stable appreciation over time. For families with children, being near good schools is a major factor, as it ensures access to strong academics, enriching extracurricular programs, and a supportive learning environment.
But what makes a school "the best"? It's a combination of factors, including high standardized test scores, strong academic programs, positive parent reviews, and a proven commitment to student success. Our guide highlights a diverse range of schools that meet these high standards, from top-rated public institutions to outstanding charter and private schools.
Best Elementary Schools in Atlanta and Beyond
Shiloh Point Elementary (Cumming, GA)
Located within the highly-regarded Forsyth County Schools district, Shiloh Point Elementary is a top-performing institution. It's recognized for its strong STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) curriculum, comprehensive gifted programs, and consistently high standardized test scores.
The school offers a modern campus and a supportive culture that encourages creativity and critical thinking, making it one of the best elementary schools in Atlanta's northern suburbs.
Walnut Grove Elementary (Covington, GA)
Nestled in Newton County, Walnut Grove Elementary is praised for its strong teacher-student relationships and a personalized approach. This small-town elementary school emphasizes academic fundamentals, character development, and a high level of family involvement, creating a nurturing environment where young students can thrive.
Morris Brandon Elementary (Atlanta, GA)
As a standout within Atlanta Public Schools, Morris Brandon Elementary consistently ranks as one of Atlanta’s top-rated public elementary schools. Serving the affluent Buckhead neighborhood, it is known for its diverse student body, strong parent-teacher association involvement, and consistent academic performance that sets a high standard for the best schools in Atlanta.
Best Middle Schools in Atlanta, GA and Beyond
Dickerson Middle School (Marietta, GA)
Part of the highly-rated Cobb County School District, Dickerson Middle School is a high-achieving institution with a strong focus on advanced academics, especially in math and science. It consistently ranks among the top middle schools in the state and offers a wide range of extracurricular activities that provide a well-rounded educational experience.
Veterans Memorial Middle School (Covington, GA)
Located in Newton County, Veterans Memorial Middle School is a strong public school that emphasizes student leadership, academic growth, and comprehensive preparation for high school success. It is known for its supportive faculty and a growing selection of enrichment programs designed to foster well-rounded students.
This school has all the right ingredients for being one of the best middle schools in Atlanta, GA.
Evans Middle School (Newnan, GA)
Situated in Coweta County, Evans Middle School offers a diverse academic experience, including programs in fine arts, robotics, and gifted education. The school focuses on building a positive school climate and fostering strong community partnerships, ensuring a supportive and engaging learning environment for its students.
Best High Schools in Atlanta and Suburban Communities
Midtown High School (Atlanta, GA)
As one of the best high schools in Atlanta, Midtown High School offers an impressive International Baccalaureate (IB) program, strong arts and athletics programs, and a wide array of Advanced Placement (AP) courses. Its central location in Atlanta and diverse student body make it a top choice for a comprehensive and vibrant high school experience.
McDonough High School (McDonough, GA)
Located just south of Atlanta in Henry County, McDonough High School has a recently updated campus with robust career and technical education programs and dual enrollment options. This high school focuses on academic achievement, student leadership, and college readiness, making it a strong choice for families seeking educational excellence outside the city center.
Jackson High School (Jackson, GA)
Known for its tight-knit community feel and supportive staff, Jackson High School provides a positive learning environment with a growing number of AP course offerings. Students benefit from strong athletic programs and numerous opportunities for involvement in clubs and activities, fostering a well-rounded high school experience.
Best Charter Schools in Atlanta Area
Charter schools offer a great alternative for families seeking a specialized or innovative curriculum. These institutions are tuition-free and operate with a degree of autonomy.
Drew Charter School (Atlanta, GA)
Drew Charter School is a prominent example of educational innovation. Located in the East Lake community, it offers a rigorous, STEAM-focused, project-based learning environment.
Known for its innovative curriculum, arts integration, and a state-of-the-art campus, Drew Charter School consistently achieves strong academic outcomes for its students, making it one of the best charter schools in Atlanta.
Social Circle Charter School (Social Circle, GA)
Serving students from kindergarten through 12th grade, Social Circle Charter School operates with a close-knit, community-oriented approach to education. It focuses on college readiness, character development, and academic accountability, providing a supportive and unified learning experience for all students.
Liberty Tech Charter Academy (Fayetteville, GA)
Liberty Tech Charter Academy is a unique option for families, emphasizing hands-on, real-world problem-solving through project-based learning. This approach, combined with small class sizes and personalized instruction, creates a supportive academic environment that helps students excel.
Top Private Schools in Atlanta and Nearby Cities
For families considering a private education, the Atlanta area is home to some of the nation's most prestigious institutions.
The Westminster Schools (Atlanta, GA)
As one of the most prestigious college-preparatory schools in the country (and the best private schools in Atlanta), The Westminster Schools offers rigorous academics, top-tier arts, and competitive athletics. It's known for its exceptional faculty, state-of-the-art campus, and a competitive admissions process that attracts top students from around the world.
Strong Rock Christian School (Locust Grove, GA)
This faith-based private school serves Pre-K through 12th grade, with a focus on both academic and spiritual growth. Located near McDonough, it provides a well-rounded experience with strong sports programs and small class sizes, fostering a close-knit community.
LaGrange Academy (LaGrange, GA)
An independent, non-sectarian school, LaGrange Academy is known for its personalized attention and high academic standards. It features small class sizes, strong college counseling, and a supportive learning environment that helps students achieve their full potential.
Dream Finders Homes Communities Near Top Schools
Dream Finders Homes builds communities that prioritize quality of life, and that includes proximity to great schools. Many of our Georgia communities are conveniently located near top-rated educational institutions, offering families an ideal combination of a new, high-quality home and access to excellent education.
Conner Springs is a new home community in Social Circle, GA, just over a mile from Social Circle Elementary, Middle, and High schools. This community offers luxury features included at no extra cost and a perfect blend of small-town charm with big-city convenience, including a pool and pickleball courts.
The Woodlands Preserve is a vibrant new home community in Jackson, GA, located within minutes of Jackson High School and all local schools, including Henderson Middle School and New Jackson Elementary. These spacious single family homes feature charming farmhouse-style exteriors and modern living with smart home technology, providing a perfect blend of style and convenience.
Underwood Crossing is one of our newest communities in Covington, GA, conveniently located near Veterans Memorial Middle School and just minutes from all area schools. This elegant neighborhood offers beautifully crafted homes in a serene, tree-lined setting, with an ideal blend of upscale living and a small-town atmosphere.
Explore more of our communities and see the many great schools nearby.
FAQs About Schools Near Atlanta
What is the best school district in Atlanta?
Based on recent rankings from Niche.com and other sources, several suburban school districts consistently rank at the top, including Buford City Schools and Forsyth County Schools. While the Atlanta Public Schools district has many highly-rated schools, many of the top-performing districts are located in the metro suburbs.
Are suburban schools better than those in Atlanta?
While Atlanta has a number of excellent schools, suburban schools often receive high rankings due to factors like funding, student-to-teacher ratios, and high graduation rates. However, what is "better" often depends on individual family needs. Suburban schools are often praised for their academic rigor, while many urban schools offer greater diversity and unique magnet or charter programs.
How do I know if my new home is zoned for a good school?
The school district a home is zoned for is one of the most important factors for families. You can verify a home's school zoning by using the school locator tool on the county's public school system website. When you work with Dream Finders Homes, our knowledgeable sales teams can help you find communities that are zoned for highly-rated schools.
Find Your New Home Near Top Schools in Atlanta
Choosing a new home is a significant decision, and finding a community that provides access to the best high schools in Atlanta, top-rated elementary schools, and all the educational options in between is essential. The Atlanta area offers a wealth of choices, and a new home from Dream Finders Homes can place you right where you want to be.
We invite you to explore our Georgia communities and floor plans. Contact us today to learn more and take the first step toward finding your dream home in a community with the educational opportunities you're looking for.