Buyers · School ratings information
Researching schools for your next home.
Schools affect more than your daily routine. They also influence long-term resale value. Here's how to research them with confidence.
Where to look
- GreatSchools: ratings, test scores, and parent reviews for public and private schools.
- California School Dashboard: the state's official data on performance, attendance, and graduation rates.
- Niche: rankings plus student and parent reviews on academics, culture, and activities.
- The district website: always confirm school boundaries directly with the district. Boundaries can change, and an address near a school isn't always assigned to it.
Tip: Visit at drop-off or pick-up time. You'll learn about traffic, the commute, and the feel of the school community in ten minutes.
What to consider
- Assigned schools vs. school-of-choice, magnet, or charter options
- Class sizes, programs (GATE, dual language, AP/IB, career pathways)
- Commute and transportation options
- How school ratings are trending, not just today's score
Fair housing note: I'm happy to share sources for school data, but I encourage every buyer to research and decide what matters to them. I don't steer buyers toward or away from any neighborhood.