7 Best Private Schools in Raleigh, NC

Best Private Schools in Raleigh, NC

Are you looking for the best private schools in Raleigh, NC? Here are seven great private school options in Raleigh! 

Raleigh has several well-regarded private schools, each with different strengths and merits. If you are looking for a private school in Raleigh, many options are available, including boarding schools, day schools, and schools with religious affiliations.

Choosing the right private school for your child is one of the most important decisions you'll make as a parent. With 18% of all K-12 students in Raleigh attending private schools (compared to the state average of 9%), the Triangle area offers exceptional educational opportunities. 

The average tuition cost for private schools in Raleigh is around $15,112, which is higher than the North Carolina private school average of $13,231. Additionally, 48% of private schools in Raleigh are religiously affiliated, with the majority being Christian and Catholic.

The Raleigh area offers various educational opportunities for students of all ages, including numerous daycares, elementary, middle, and high schools, as well as private schools. The city is known for its high-quality education system, with students performing above state averages in many subjects.

Here's your guide to Raleigh's seven best private schools, featuring current tuition costs and unique insights that matter to local families.

Check out these top-rated private schools in Raleigh. 

1. Cardinal Gibbons High School

Address: 1401 Edwards Mill Rd., Raleigh, NC, 27607

Rank: #1 Best Catholic High School in North Carolina

Grades: 9-12 (Coeducational) 

Tuition: 

Cardinal Gibbons High School is a college preparatory school affiliated with the Roman Catholic Diocese of Raleigh. This four-year school serves grades 9 through 12 and is religiously affiliated.

Cardinal Gibbons combines rigorous academics with spiritual development, creating well-rounded graduates who excel in college and their careers.

The school's commitment to service learning helps students develop empathy and social responsibility while building practical skills through community engagement.

In the classroom, students develop real-world problem-solving skills, faith, and courage that will benefit them. Through the arts, students will build confidence in their God-given gifts and find ways to inspire, transport, and transform.

Notable Features: 

• Strong Catholic identity and values-based education
• Excellent college preparatory curriculum
• Outstanding athletics program with state championships
• Active service learning opportunities
• Strong alum network throughout the Triangle

2. Cary Academy

Address: 1500 N. Harrison Ave., Cary, NC, 27513

Rank: #1 in Best Private High Schools in North Carolina

Grades: 6-12 (Coeducational) 

Tuition:

Cary Academy is located in Cary and is dedicated to preparing the next generation of bold, lifelong learners and changemakers. With engaging and challenging academics and cutting-edge educational approaches, Cary Academy is beloved by many. 

The school believes that education is an investment in the future. Students graduate as bold, self-directed, lifelong learners who are exceptional, creative, and critical thinkers. With an easy application process, starting your educational journey at Cary Academy is accessible for all.

This exceptional learning community is dedicated to exploration, innovation, and collaboration. Its unwavering commitments drive its work with outstanding faculty. If you seek a school that challenges your child, check out Cary Academy.

Cary Academy's emphasis on technology integration and project-based learning prepares students for the demands of the 21st-century workplace while maintaining high academic standards.

Notable Features: 

• Technology-integrated curriculum
• Project-based learning approach
• Strong STEM programs
• Excellent college placement record
• Modern facilities and innovative teaching methods

3. Grace Christian School

Address: 1101 Buck Jones Rd, Raleigh, NC 27606

Rank: 8th in Best Christian High Schools in the Raleigh Area

Grades: K-12 (Christian and Coeducational) 

Tuition:

Grace Christian School combines academic excellence with Christian values, creating an environment where students can intellectually and spiritually thrive. The school's commitment to affordable Christian education makes it accessible to families throughout the Raleigh area.

The lower campus caters to students from Transitional Kindergarten to 6th grade. At Grace, every student is known, valued, and loved. The community fosters a nurturing environment where each child is encouraged to pursue their gifts.

The upper campus at Grace serves students in 7th-12th grade and provides robust academic preparation and opportunities for students to apply their skills in non-academic situations. Students are encouraged to participate in fine arts, sports, and other extracurricular activities to cultivate their God-given gifts.

Grace Christian School is an excellent choice for your children if you seek a Christian private school that accommodates students from kindergarten through college.

Notable Features: 

• Christ-centered education
• Strong academic standards
• Active sports and extracurricular programs
• Financial aid available
• Supportive school community

4. The Raleigh School

Address: 1141 Raleigh School Drive, Raleigh, NC 27607

Grades: PK, K-5 (Coeducational) 

Tuition: 

The Raleigh School takes an active, hands-on approach. Its diverse and cohesive community emphasizes challenge and partnership with engaged parents. Authentic play and project-based learning experiences nurture children's natural inclinations to learn, explore, and discover.

Encouraging children to think creatively, critically, and collaboratively helps develop academic and problem-solving skills. The focus is on social and emotional development, cultivating compassionate, caring, and responsible leaders.

The Raleigh School provides an intimate learning environment where every student is known and supported. Their approach focuses on developing strong foundational skills while encouraging creativity and independent thinking. Many graduates attend top private high schools in the area, including Saint Mary's, Ravenscroft, and Cardinal Gibbons.

Notable Features: 

• Small school environment with personalized attention
• Strong academic foundation in core subjects
• Emphasis on critical thinking and problem-solving
• Active parent community involvement
• Excellent preparation for high school placement

5. Wake Christian Academy

Address: 5500 Wake Academy Drive, Raleigh, NC 27603

Rank: #16 Best Private High School in the Raleigh Area

Grades: K-12 (Christian and Coeducational) 

Tuition: 

Wake Christian Academy has served the Raleigh community since 1966 as a leading K-12 private Christian school. The academy offers a comprehensive educational experience with a biblical foundation, preparing students for college success and life beyond graduation.

Their competitive athletics program, the Bulldogs, has achieved numerous conference championships and state tournament appearances.

The school caters to students from kindergarten to senior high school and nurtures their spiritual and intellectual development. Wake Christian Academy is committed to maintaining a high standard of excellence as outlined by various organizations.

Notable Features: 

• Ranks within the top 20% of private schools in North Carolina
• 12:1 student-teacher ratio
• 70% of graduates attend 4-year colleges
• Comprehensive athletics program with 20 sports
• AP courses available
• Strong athletic achievements, including conference championships

6. Trinity Academy of Raleigh 

Address: 10224 Baileywick Road, Raleigh, NC, 27613

Rank: #5 Best Private Christian High School in the Raleigh Area

Grades: K-12 (Christian and Coeducational) 

Tuition: 

Trinity Academy offers an excellent value for families seeking a Christian education with classical academic rigor. The school combines time-tested educational methods with modern teaching techniques, preparing students for academic success while strengthening their faith foundation.

Trinity Academy focuses on classical arts and sciences and offers a full array of high-quality, competitive athletics and award-winning fine arts. Trinity rivals the best schools in the region, boasting 100% college acceptance and generous per-student college scholarship offers. 

Notable Features: 

• Christian faith tradition with a classical learning model
• Strong college preparatory program
• Financial assistance available
• Small class sizes and individualized attention

7. Ravenscroft

Address: 7409 Falls of Neuse Road, Raleigh, NC, 27615

Rank: #6 Best Private High School in North Carolina

Grades: K-8 (Coeducational) 

Tuition: 

Ravenscroft is one of Raleigh's top private schools, and it stands out for its comprehensive PreK through 12th grade program, which emphasizes academic excellence and character development. 

The school's "Lead From Here" framework teaches students to lead themselves, work with others, and make positive community changes. With a robust curriculum that includes hands-on learning experiences, students develop critical thinking skills that prepare them for success in college and beyond.

Many Raleigh families consider sending their children to Ravenscroft. The school is divided into three divisions: lower school, middle school, and upper school, each led by an individual director. 

Ravenscroft is renowned for its high percentage of faculty with advanced degrees, extensive student body, and many AP courses, sports, and extracurriculars.

The school promotes curiosity and critical thinking by integrating hands-on learning experiences, in-depth lectures, athletics, and extracurricular programs.

Notable Features: 

• 22 Advanced Placement courses available
• 80% of faculty hold master's degrees or higher
• "Lead From Here" leadership framework
• 100% college acceptance rate
• Strong athletics program with state championships

Methodology

To determine the best private schools in Raleigh, data was sourced from Niche, and tuition information was sourced from each school's website. 

FAQS

How much is a private school in Raleigh, NC?

According to data, the average private school tuition in North Carolina in 2025 will be $13,231, and the average in Raleigh will be $15,112. 

How many private schools are in Raleigh, NC?

Raleigh is home to many excellent schools, particularly private schools. There are over 76 private schools in Raleigh, serving over 17,547 students. These private schools encompass a wide range, from religiously affiliated to non-religious, providing options for every child.

How do you find the best schools in Raleigh?

Raleigh has private and public schools, so when you decide which is the best choice for your child, consider the following questions to help with the decision:

• What is the average high school graduation rate? 
• What are the math and reading proficiency scores?
• How do current and past students feel about the school?
• Where is the school located?

Best Private Schools in Raleigh, NC - The Bottom Line

Raleigh is recognized as one of the best cities in the country for raising a family. Its affordable cost of living, attractive homes, excellent education, and diverse recreational activities make it a great choice for anyone looking for a great place to live or considering relocating with their kids.

Many neighborhoods offer various educational options for every child, including private and public schools. With 48% of private schools in Raleigh offering some form of financial assistance, many families find quality private education more accessible than expected.

Visit schools, speak with current families, and consider your child's needs and learning style. Investing in private education can provide lifelong benefits, including strong academic preparation, character development, and connections that last well beyond graduation.

If you're considering moving to the Raleigh area, you can contact the experts at Raleigh Realty. We are here to help you find your dream home in this thriving city with excellent educational opportunities.