Best School Districts
Seattle Metropolitan Area
A comprehensive, data-driven analysis of the top-performing school districts in the Greater Seattle region. Compare graduation rates, test scores, student-teacher ratios, and housing costs.
Our Ranking Methodology
Our rankings are based on rigorous analysis of publicly available data from the Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI), U.S. News & World Report, and Niche.com.
Graduation Rate
25% weight
4-year cohort graduation rates from OSPI
Test Scores
25% weight
State assessment proficiency in math & reading
Student-Teacher
20% weight
Ratio of students per certified teacher
Programs
15% weight
AP courses, STEM, arts, special ed resources
Parent Reviews
15% weight
Community satisfaction from Niche & GreatSchools
Compare All Districts
Click column headers to sort. Search and filter to find the perfect district for your family.
Data sources: OSPI (2024), U.S. Census Bureau, Redfin (Jan 2025)
School District Performance
Interactive visualizations to help you compare key metrics across districts.
Graduation Rates by District
Test Score Proficiency
Student-Teacher Ratio
Housing Costs vs. School Rating
Top 10 School Districts
Detailed profiles of each district, including programs, housing costs, and key statistics.
Mercer Island School District
King County | 5 Schools | 4,400 Students
Consistently ranked #1 in Washington State, Mercer Island School District offers exceptional academics in a tight-knit island community. With a 98% graduation rate and the highest test scores in the region, families relocate from across the country for access to these schools.
Special Programs
- 21 AP courses offered
- Award-winning STEM program
- International Baccalaureate option
- Comprehensive special education
Housing in District
- Median: $2,100,000
- 5-year appreciation: 42%
- Avg. days on market: 12
- 10 min to Seattle via I-90
Bellevue School District
King County | 29 Schools | 20,500 Students
The largest district in our top 10, Bellevue offers exceptional academics with remarkable diversity. Over 100 languages are spoken across the district. Known for producing National Merit Scholars and exceptional college placement rates.
Special Programs
- 30+ AP courses district-wide
- Big Picture Learning alternative
- Gifted program (K-12)
- STEM-focused elementary schools
Housing in District
- Median: $1,600,000
- 5-year appreciation: 38%
- Avg. days on market: 14
- 15 min to Seattle via SR-520
Issaquah School District
King County | 28 Schools | 21,000 Students
Serving Issaquah, Sammamish, and parts of Bellevue, this district combines academic excellence with outdoor education. The district is known for strong community involvement and environmental sustainability programs.
Special Programs
- Gibson Ek High School (project-based)
- Outdoor education emphasis
- Award-winning music program
- Comprehensive athletics
Housing in District
- Median: $1,300,000
- 5-year appreciation: 35%
- Avg. days on market: 18
- 20 min to Seattle via I-90
Lake Washington School District
King County | 56 Schools | 32,000 Students
The largest district on our list, Lake Washington serves Redmond, Kirkland, and Sammamish. Home to Microsoft and tech workers, the district has exceptional STEM resources and parent involvement.
Special Programs
- Tesla STEM High School
- Choice & Montessori schools
- Robust special ed services
- Running Start partnerships
Housing in District
- Median: $1,100,000
- 5-year appreciation: 32%
- Avg. days on market: 16
- 18 min to Seattle via SR-520
Northshore School District
King County | 35 Schools | 23,000 Students
Serving Bothell, Kenmore, and Woodinville, Northshore offers excellent academics at more affordable housing prices. Known for career and technical education programs and strong community bonds.
Special Programs
- Secondary Academy for Success
- Career & Technical Education
- Parent Partnership Program
- Gifted & highly capable
Housing in District
- Median: $850,000
- 5-year appreciation: 28%
- Avg. days on market: 21
- 20 min to Seattle via I-405
Snoqualmie Valley SD
6,500 Students | Snoqualmie, North Bend
Mountain community with strong outdoor education focus. Perfect for families who love skiing and hiking while maintaining academic excellence.
Edmonds School District
20,000 Students | Edmonds, Lynnwood, Mountlake Terrace
Best value in the top 10. Waterfront community with diverse population and strong arts programs. Ferry access to Seattle.
Bainbridge Island SD
3,800 Students | Bainbridge Island
Island lifestyle with ferry commute to Seattle. Strong arts community and exceptional environmental education programs.
Vashon Island SD
1,600 Students | Vashon Island
Small, tight-knit community with progressive education philosophy. Strong focus on sustainability and arts.
Shoreline School District
9,200 Students | Shoreline, Lake Forest Park
Closest top-ranked district to Seattle. Diverse community with strong music programs and proximity to urban amenities. Light rail access makes commuting easy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Moving for Better Schools?
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