Top Public Schools of the East Bay

The East Bay is home to some of the strongest public schools in Northern California. What sets these schools apart isn’t just test scores—it’s engaged families, excellent teachers, diverse student bodies, and communities that actively support education. These schools often play a major role in where families choose to live.

(As always, boundaries change and placement depends on district policies—this is an overview, not a guarantee.)

1. Berkeley High School

District: Berkeley Unified
Grades: 9–12

One of the most academically diverse and dynamic public high schools in the Bay Area. Berkeley High offers AP pathways, strong arts programs, and a deeply engaged student body. Families value its intellectual energy and commitment to equity.

2. Albany High School

District: Albany Unified
Grades: 9–12

Consistently high-performing with a strong college-prep focus. Smaller than many neighboring schools, Albany High benefits from tight community involvement and excellent academic outcomes.

3. Piedmont High School

District: Piedmont Unified
Grades: 9–12

A standout academically with notable strength in athletics and arts. Piedmont schools are often cited for consistency and resources, supported by an extremely involved parent community.

4. Northgate High School

District: Mount Diablo Unified
Grades: 9–12

A top performer in Contra Costa County, known for strong academics, competitive sports programs, and wide AP offerings. It draws families who want suburban living with academic rigor.

5. Campolindo High School

District: Acalanes Union
Grades: 9–12

Frequently ranked among California’s best public high schools. Campolindo offers high academic expectations, excellent extracurriculars, and a well-supported student community.

6. Acalanes High School

District: Acalanes Union
Grades: 9–12

A flagship East Bay public school known for balanced excellence—academics, athletics, arts, and student well-being. Lafayette families often cite Acalanes as a primary reason for buying locally.

7. Miramonte High School

District: Acalanes Union
Grades: 9–12

Strong academic performance paired with competitive sports and arts programs. Orinda consistently attracts families prioritizing top-tier public education in a quieter, residential setting.

8. BUSD Elementary Schools

District: Berkeley Unified
Grades: K–5

The equity program in Berkeley draws many people to this city, where children are placed in local schools by lottery. This keeps the academic and socio-economic elements mostly stable and equitable across the city. To learn more about the program visit www.berkeleyschools.net

9. Donald L. Rheem Elementary School

District: Moraga School District
Grades: K–5

Highly regarded for academic performance, parent involvement, and overall stability. Many Lamorinda families specifically target this district for early education.

10. Alameda Science and Technology Institute

District: Alameda Unified
Grades: 9–12

A standout public magnet program with a STEM focus. Students earn college credit while still in high school, making ASTI an attractive option for academically driven students seeking practical pathways.

Why Public Schools Drive East Bay Real Estate

In the East Bay, public schools are deeply tied to housing decisions. Strong districts often correlate with long-term property value stability, community engagement, and multi-generational buyers. Many families choose neighborhood first, school second—but here, you can often have both.