New Jersey is home to some of the finest private schools, offering excellent academics, extracurricular activities, and a nurturing environment for students at every grade level.
Whether you're searching for the best private high schools in New Jersey, private middle schools, or an exceptional elementary program, this list highlights some of the top private schools in NJ across Morris, Essex, Bergen, and Union counties. Fortunately, you'll also find all the amenities you could want near many of these schools, such as shopping, dining, country clubs, and plenty of outdoor beauty.
Read on to find out what makes each of these schools stand out!
What Are the Top Private Schools in New Jersey?
The top private schools are all across the state, but we're going to focus on the top schools in Morris, Essex, Bergen, and Union Counties. Here are the best of the best!
Best Morris County, NJ Private Schools
Delbarton School (Morristown, NJ)
Delbarton is one of the best private high schools in New Jersey for boys, offering a rigorous academic program combined with leadership development, athletics, and arts. With a focus on Catholic values and community service, students here are prepared not only for academic success but for lives of character and compassion. The school serves boys in grades 7-12, making it one of the leading New Jersey private high schools for those seeking a well-rounded education.
The Peck School (Morristown, NJ)
This co-ed school is one of the best private elementary schools in NJ, with a focus on character education and academic excellence. Serving grades K-8, The Peck School nurtures young minds with a balance of traditional academics and creative thinking. Their mission is to prepare students for the challenges of middle school and beyond, making it a top choice among private middle schools in NJ.
Morristown Beard School (Morristown, NJ)
Morristown Beard is known for its innovative, hands-on approach to learning, serving students from grades 6-12. With an emphasis on creativity, leadership, and character development, this school is consistently ranked among the top private schools in NJ. Its well-rounded curriculum and supportive community help students thrive academically and socially.
The Red Oaks School (Morristown, NJ)
Offering a unique blend of Montessori and International Baccalaureate (IB) programs, The Red Oaks School provides a globally focused education for grades Pre-K-8. This school is one of the top private schools in NJ for fostering independence and critical thinking in students. Red Oaks is an excellent option for families looking for a nurturing, progressive learning environment.
Villa Walsh Academy (Morristown, NJ)
As one of the leading all-girls Catholic schools in the area, Villa Walsh Academy serves grades 7-12, with a strong focus on academic excellence, leadership, and faith-based values. The small class sizes and supportive faculty make it one of the best private schools in New Jersey, providing a personalized education in a close-knit community.
Best Essex County, NJ Private Schools
Newark Academy (Livingston, NJ)
Newark Academy is a co-educational school that consistently ranks among the best private high schools in New Jersey. With a challenging curriculum, including the prestigious International Baccalaureate (IB) program, Newark Academy serves students in grades 6-12. It’s an excellent choice for families seeking a globally-minded education with a strong emphasis on academic excellence.
Montclair Kimberley Academy (Montclair, NJ)
Montclair Kimberley Academy is a Pre-K-12 co-ed school that stands out for its creativity-driven curriculum and commitment to critical thinking. Known as one of the top private schools in NJ, MKA fosters innovation and intellectual curiosity in its students, making it a standout among New Jersey private high schools and lower grade levels alike.
The Pingry School (Short Hills Campus) (Short Hills, NJ)
Pingry’s Short Hills campus serves students from grades K-6 and offers a solid academic foundation through a balanced and engaging curriculum. With an emphasis on independent thinking and problem-solving, Pingry is regarded as one of the best private elementary schools in NJ. Its focus on both academics and personal growth makes it a top choice for early education.
Kent Place School (Summit, NJ)
Kent Place is an all-girls school serving grades K-12 and one of NJ's top private schools. Known for its rigorous academics, leadership opportunities, and commitment to empowering young women, Kent Place fosters intellectual and personal development in a supportive environment. The school consistently ranks among the best private high schools for girls in New Jersey.
Far Brook School (Short Hills, NJ)
Far Brook School offers a creative and academically enriching curriculum for students in grades Pre-K-8. With a focus on integrating the arts and humanities into traditional subjects, Far Brook stands out as one of the most unique and inspiring private schools in New Jersey. This school is perfect for families seeking an education that encourages both intellectual growth and creativity.
Best Bergen County, NJ Private Schools
Dwight-Englewood School (Englewood, NJ)
Dwight-Englewood is one of the leading co-educational private high schools in New Jersey, serving students from Pre-K through 12th grade. With a focus on global citizenship and academic excellence, Dwight-Englewood offers an innovative curriculum designed to challenge students while preparing them for top-tier universities. It’s consistently ranked among the best private schools in NJ.
Bergen Catholic High School (Oradell, NJ)
Bergen Catholic High School is an all-boys school known for its academic rigor and strong athletic programs. With a focus on Catholic values and leadership, it’s regarded as one of the top private schools in NJ for boys in grades 9-12. Bergen Catholic offers a comprehensive education that prepares students for both college and life beyond.
The Elisabeth Morrow School (Englewood, NJ)
Serving grades Pre-K-8, The Elisabeth Morrow School is one of the best private elementary schools in NJ, with a focus on character development and academic achievement. The school offers a nurturing environment where students can thrive, making it a top choice for families seeking a well-rounded education in the early years.
Saddle River Day School (Saddle River, NJ)
Saddle River Day School is a co-educational school offering an exceptional education for students in grades Pre-K through 12. Known for its individualized approach to learning, SRDS provides a challenging yet supportive environment that fosters personal growth and academic success. It’s one of the top private schools in NJ.
The Academy of the Holy Angels (Demarest, NJ)
This all-girls Catholic school offers a nurturing and academically rigorous environment for grades 6-12. Known for its commitment to empowering young women through education and community service, The Academy of the Holy Angels is ranked among the top 10 best private schools in New Jersey.
Best Union County, NJ Private Schools
The Pingry School (Basking Ridge Campus) (Basking Ridge, NJ)
Pingry’s Basking Ridge campus serves middle and high school students (grades 6-12) and is consistently ranked among the best private high schools in New Jersey. With a strong academic program, Pingry prepares students for success in both college and life, making it a top choice for families in Union County.
Kent Place School (Summit, NJ)
As one of the top New Jersey private high schools for girls, Kent Place School serves students from kindergarten through 12th grade. Its strong emphasis on leadership, academics, and personal growth makes it a standout in Union County.
Oratory Preparatory School (Summit, NJ)
Oratory Prep is a highly regarded all-boys Catholic school for grades 7-12. Known for its rigorous academics and strong sense of community, Oratory Prep is among the top private schools in NJ for families seeking a well-rounded education with faith-based values.
Oak Knoll School of the Holy Child (Summit, NJ)
Oak Knoll offers a co-ed elementary program and an all-girls middle and high school program, making it a flexible option for families. Known for its focus on academic excellence and service, Oak Knoll consistently ranks among the best private schools in NJ.
Union Catholic Regional High School (Scotch Plains, NJ)
Union Catholic is a co-educational Catholic high school that integrates cutting-edge technology into its curriculum, preparing students for future success. It’s one of the top private schools in NJ for those seeking a dynamic, innovative learning environment in a faith-based setting.
Finding the Best Private School for Your Child
Choosing the right private school is an important decision that can shape your child’s future, and there are many top options to consider across the state.
Each school offers a unique blend of academics, extracurriculars, and values, ensuring your child gets the education and support they need to thrive. With this list of private schools in New Jersey, you’re one step closer to finding the perfect fit for your family.
Creating the Perfect Home Near the Best Private Schools
If you're planning to move to an area known for its top private schools, you're not just investing in your child's education, but also in a new home.
Finding the right house near the best private elementary schools, middle schools, or New Jersey high schools is only part of the journey. You want your home to fit your family’s needs just as perfectly as the school you choose.
For example, your new kitchen may need more storage, a larger island, or new finishes throughout to match your style. Do you work from home? Well, you'll need a home office with built-ins and the perfect lighting. If your new home has an unfinished basement, remodel this wealth of space to become anything you and your family need!
When you're ready to remodel your New Jersey home to create the perfect fit, contact us to schedule a chat. We're excited to hear about your dream home!
