Sam SmithPublic education in the United States is home to some of the most innovative, rigorous, and diverse high schools in the world. While rankings vary depending on the criteria—academic performance, college readiness, equity, or specialized programs—certain schools consistently stand out for their excellence. From STEM-focused magnets to historic exam schools and equity-driven charters, these institutions represent the best of what public education can offer. The following list highlights 50 of the nation’s most prestigious public high schools, organized alphabetically by state to showcase geographic diversity rather than arbitrary ranking.
Top 50 Public Schools In The US
1. BASIS Scottsdale (Arizona)
BASIS Scottsdale is a nationally renowned charter school recognized for its rigorous STEM curriculum and consistently high rankings in U.S. News & World Report. With advanced coursework, AP offerings, and a focus on critical thinking, students excel in college readiness and standardized assessments. The school emphasizes global perspectives, preparing graduates for competitive universities worldwide. Its selective admissions and demanding academic environment foster a culture of excellence, making it one of the most prestigious public schools in the nation.
2. University High School (Arizona)
Located in Tucson, University High School is a selective public magnet program designed for academically gifted students. It offers accelerated coursework, including AP and honors classes, and partners with the University of Arizona to provide dual enrollment opportunities. Known for its strong college matriculation rates, the school nurtures intellectual curiosity and leadership. Students benefit from a supportive yet challenging environment that emphasizes both academic achievement and personal growth, consistently placing University High among Arizona’s top public schools.
3. Academy of the Canyons (California)
Academy of the Canyons in Santa Clarita is a middle college high school that allows students to earn both a high school diploma and college credits simultaneously. Partnered with College of the Canyons, it provides a unique blend of rigorous academics and early exposure to higher education. With small class sizes and individualized support, students thrive in an environment that emphasizes responsibility and independence. The school’s innovative model prepares graduates for university success, making it a standout in California’s public education landscape.
4. California Academy of Mathematics and Science (California)
The California Academy of Mathematics and Science (CAMS), located in Carson, is a selective magnet school specializing in STEM education. It offers advanced coursework in math, science, and engineering, with strong partnerships with California State University, Dominguez Hills. CAMS emphasizes project-based learning, research opportunities, and collaboration, fostering innovation and problem-solving skills. Its graduates consistently excel in college admissions, particularly in technical fields. CAMS is widely recognized as one of California’s premier public schools for science and mathematics excellence.
5. Gretchen Whitney High School (California)
Gretchen Whitney High School in Cerritos is a highly selective public magnet school known for its academic rigor and competitive admissions. Offering a strong curriculum in STEM, humanities, and arts, Whitney consistently ranks among the top schools in California and nationally. Students engage in AP courses, extracurricular competitions, and leadership opportunities. The school fosters a culture of achievement and community involvement, preparing graduates for elite universities. Its reputation for excellence makes Whitney a model of high-performing public education.
6. Lowell High School (California)
Lowell High School in San Francisco is one of the oldest and most prestigious public schools in the state. Known for its rigorous academics, diverse student body, and historic legacy, Lowell offers a wide range of AP courses and extracurricular programs. Its graduates frequently attend top universities, reflecting the school’s emphasis on college readiness. Lowell balances tradition with innovation, maintaining high standards while adapting to modern educational needs. It remains a cornerstone of San Francisco’s public education system.
7. Mission San Jose High School (California)
Mission San Jose High School in Fremont is a top-performing public school recognized for its strong STEM programs and academic excellence. With a diverse student body and a culture of achievement, it offers extensive AP courses and extracurricular opportunities. Mission San Jose consistently ranks among California’s best, with high graduation and college matriculation rates. The school emphasizes both academic rigor and community engagement, preparing students for success in higher education and beyond. Its reputation makes it a standout suburban institution.
8. Oxford Academy (California)
Oxford Academy in Cypress is a selective public school consistently ranked #1 in California by U.S. News. Known for its rigorous curriculum, Oxford emphasizes STEM, humanities, and leadership development. Admission is competitive, and students benefit from small class sizes and individualized support. The school’s graduates achieve exceptional college readiness scores and attend top universities nationwide. Oxford’s commitment to excellence, equity, and innovation has earned it a reputation as one of the most elite public schools in the country.
9. Palos Verdes Peninsula High School (California)
Palos Verdes Peninsula High School, located in Rolling Hills Estates, is a high-achieving suburban school known for its strong academics and extracurricular programs. Offering a wide range of AP courses, arts, and athletics, it provides a balanced education that fosters both intellectual and personal growth. The school’s graduates consistently attend prestigious universities, reflecting its emphasis on college readiness. With a supportive community and dedicated faculty, Palos Verdes Peninsula stands out as one of Southern California’s premier public high schools.
10. Preuss School UCSD (California)
The Preuss School UCSD in La Jolla is a charter school designed to serve low-income, first-generation college-bound students. Partnered with the University of California, San Diego, it offers a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum and extensive support services. Preuss emphasizes equity, access, and achievement, with graduates achieving high college matriculation rates. Its mission-driven approach demonstrates how public education can transform lives, combining academic excellence with social impact. Preuss is widely recognized as a model for closing opportunity gaps in education.
Top 50 Public High Schools – Numbered Table
| # | State | School Name | City | Type | Notable Focus / Strength |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arizona | BASIS Scottsdale | Scottsdale | Charter | STEM, advanced coursework |
| 2 | Arizona | University High School | Tucson | Magnet | Gifted education, AP excellence |
| 3 | California | Academy of the Canyons | Santa Clarita | Middle College | Early college credits |
| 4 | California | California Academy of Math & Science | Carson | Magnet | STEM research |
| 5 | California | Gretchen Whitney High School | Cerritos | Magnet | Competitive academics |
| 6 | California | Lowell High School | San Francisco | Selective | High academic achievement |
| 7 | California | Mission San Jose High School | Fremont | Public | STEM, academics |
| 8 | California | Oxford Academy | Cypress | Magnet | California’s top-ranked |
| 9 | California | Palos Verdes Peninsula High School | Rolling Hills Estates | Public | Suburban excellence |
| 10 | California | Preuss School UCSD | La Jolla | Charter | High-performance low-income |
| 11 | California | San Marino High School | San Marino | Public | Academic powerhouse |
| 12 | California | Troy High School | Fullerton | Magnet | STEM and competitions |
| 13 | Colorado | Denver School of the Arts | Denver | Magnet | Arts |
| 14 | Colorado | Fairview High School | Boulder | Public | AP strength |
| 15 | Connecticut | Academy of Aerospace & Engineering | Windsor | Magnet | Engineering, aerospace |
| 16 | Connecticut | Staples High School | Westport | Public | High-achieving suburban |
| 17 | Delaware | Charter School of Wilmington | Wilmington | Charter | STEM excellence |
| 18 | Florida | Archimedean Upper Conservatory | Miami | Charter | Math-intensive |
| 19 | Florida | Pine View School | Osprey | Public | Gifted-only model |
| 20 | Florida | Stanton College Preparatory School | Jacksonville | Magnet | IB, AP |
| 21 | Florida | Suncoast Community High School | Riviera Beach | Magnet | IB, CS, engineering |
| 22 | Georgia | Gwinnett School of Math, Science & Tech | Lawrenceville | Magnet | STEM |
| 23 | Georgia | Northview High School | Johns Creek | Public | High achievement |
| 24 | Illinois | Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy | Aurora | Residential Magnet | Advanced STEM |
| 25 | Illinois | Northside College Prep | Chicago | Selective | Academic excellence |
| 26 | Illinois | Payton College Preparatory High School | Chicago | Selective | High national ranking |
| 27 | Illinois | Walter Payton College Prep | Chicago | Selective | AP/IB excellence |
| 28 | Indiana | Carmel High School | Carmel | Public | Large, high-achieving |
| 29 | Kentucky | duPont Manual High School | Louisville | Magnet | STEM, arts, journalism |
| 30 | Louisiana | Benjamin Franklin High School | New Orleans | Selective | Academic excellence |
| 31 | Maryland | Poolesville High School | Poolesville | Magnet | STEM “houses” |
| 32 | Maryland | Thomas S. Wootton High School | Rockville | Public | STEM, AP |
| 33 | Maryland | Walt Whitman High School | Bethesda | Public | Suburban excellence |
| 34 | Massachusetts | Boston Latin School | Boston | Selective | Classical academics |
| 35 | Massachusetts | Lexington High School | Lexington | Public | Academic powerhouse |
| 36 | Massachusetts | Advanced Math & Science Academy | Marlborough | Charter | STEM |
| 37 | Michigan | International Academy | Bloomfield Hills | Public (Consortium) | IB-only |
| 38 | Michigan | Troy High School | Troy | Public | High-performing |
| 39 | Minnesota | Math and Science Academy | Woodbury | Charter | STEM |
| 40 | Missouri | Michele Clark Academic Prep | St. Louis | Magnet | Rapid academic growth |
| 41 | Nevada | Davidson Academy | Reno | Public (Gifted) | Profoundly gifted education |
| 42 | New Jersey | Bergen County Academies | Hackensack | Magnet | Specialized academies |
| 43 | New Jersey | High Technology High School | Lincroft | Magnet | STEM |
| 44 | New Jersey | Dr. Ronald E. McNair Academic High School | Jersey City | Public | High achievement |
| 45 | New Jersey | Millburn High School | Millburn | Public | Suburban excellence |
| 46 | New York | Bronx High School of Science | Bronx | Selective | STEM |
| 47 | New York | Stuyvesant High School | New York | Selective | Elite academics |
| 48 | New York | Staten Island Technical High School | Staten Island | Selective | Engineering & tech |
| 49 | North Carolina | NC School of Science & Mathematics | Durham | Residential Magnet | STEM |
| 50 | Texas | Carnegie Vanguard High School | Houston | Magnet | Gifted curriculum |
Closing
This collection underscores the breadth of talent, innovation, and opportunity across America’s public school system. Whether through selective admissions, specialized programs, or a commitment to equity, these schools demonstrate how excellence can take many forms. Rankings may shift year to year, but the schools featured here remain pillars of academic achievement and student success. For the most up-to-date information, consult trusted sources like U.S. News & World Report, Niche, and The Washington Post, which continue to track and celebrate the evolving landscape of public education.