Best Schools in Anaheim for Families Buying a Home

Anaheim, California, is a city that blends family-friendly neighborhoods with a rich cultural tapestry and access to world-class attractions like Disneyland. For families buying a home, the quality of local schools is a critical factor in choosing the right neighborhood. With a mix of public, private, and charter schools, Anaheim offers diverse educational opportunities. This guide highlights the best schools in Anaheim based on academic performance, extracurricular programs, and community feedback, alongside neighborhoods that align with these top institutions.

Why Schools Matter When Buying a Home in Anaheim

The quality of schools significantly impacts property values and the long-term satisfaction of families. Homes in neighborhoods with highly rated schools tend to retain or increase their value, making them a smart investment. Additionally, schools with strong academic programs, dedicated teachers, and robust extracurricular activities foster well-rounded development for children. In Anaheim, families can choose from public schools in districts like Anaheim Elementary and Anaheim Union High School District, as well as private institutions with specialized curricula. Below, we dive into some of the standout schools and the neighborhoods they serve.

Top Public Schools in Anaheim

Elementary Schools

Franklin (Benjamin) Elementary School

• Location: 521 S. East St., Anaheim, CA 92805

• Grades: K-6

• Student Population: ~633

• Highlights: Franklin Elementary is part of the Anaheim Elementary School District and is known for its strong academic programs and diverse student body. The school emphasizes STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) education and offers a Korean Dual Language Immersion program, which is highly praised by parents for its cultural and academic benefits. Parent reviews on GreatSchools commend the caring teachers and active parent involvement, which strengthen the school community.

• Neighborhood: Central Anaheim, near The Colony. This historic district is safer than downtown, with a mix of single-family homes and affordable condos, making it appealing for middle-income families. Homes here average around $662,000, offering value compared to pricier areas like Anaheim Hills.

Stoddard (Alexander J.) Elementary School

• Location: 1841 S. Ninth St., Anaheim, CA 92802

• Grades: K-6

• Student Population: ~622

• Highlights: Stoddard Elementary is another gem in the Anaheim Elementary School District, recognized for its focus on academic progress and equity. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including music and art programs, which parents appreciate for fostering creativity. Community reviews highlight the dedicated staff and safe, inclusive environment.

• Neighborhood: Southeast Anaheim, a vibrant area with diverse residents and access to parks and eateries. The median home price here is approximately $583,000, attracting families seeking affordability without sacrificing school quality.

Ponderosa Elementary School

• Location: 2135 S. Mountain View Ave., Anaheim, CA 92802

• Grades: K-6

• Student Population: ~500

• Highlights: Ponderosa, formerly Francis Scott Key Elementary, is celebrated for its excellent staff and engaging curriculum. Yelp reviews from former students reflect fondly on the school’s supportive environment and memorable teachers. The school integrates technology into its STEAM programs, preparing students for future academic challenges.

• Neighborhood: Southwest Anaheim, a lively area with a low crime rate and proximity to Disneyland. This neighborhood is ideal for families, with single-family homes averaging $662,000 and access to community amenities like parks and healthcare facilities.

Middle and High Schools

Canyon High School

• Location: 220 S. Imperial Hwy., Anaheim, CA 92807

• Grades: 9-12

• Student Population: ~2,300

• Highlights: Part of the Orange Unified School District, Canyon High School ranks among the top public high schools in Anaheim. It boasts a 96% graduation rate and offers Advanced Placement (AP) courses, with a 36% AP participation rate. The school excels in preparing students for college, with many graduates attending nearby California State University, Fullerton. Extracurriculars include competitive sports and a strong music program.

• Neighborhood: Anaheim Hills, one of the safest and most upscale areas in Anaheim. Homes here average $1.3 million, reflecting the area’s high-quality schools, gated communities, and proximity to outdoor recreation like golf courses.

Cambridge Virtual Academy

• Location: 1422 E. Broadway, Anaheim, CA 92805

• Grades: 7-12

• Student Population: ~300

• Highlights: This public virtual school in the Anaheim Union High School District is ideal for families seeking flexible learning options. It ranks highly due to its personalized approach and strong test scores, with 44% reading proficiency and 18% math proficiency, above the district average. Cambridge Virtual Academy caters to students who thrive in online environments, offering robust academic support and extracurriculars like virtual clubs.

• Neighborhood: The Colony, a historic district with charming homes and a lower crime rate than downtown. Homes here are more affordable, with prices around $600,000, making it a great option for families prioritizing school choice.

Top Private Schools in Anaheim

Private schools in Anaheim offer specialized education, smaller class sizes, and often a religious or unique pedagogical focus. About 50% of private schools in Anaheim are religiously affiliated, with an average tuition of $8,626, significantly lower than the California average of $17,242.

Fairmont Schools – Historic Anaheim Campus

• Location: 121 S. Citron St., Anaheim, CA 92805

• Grades: Preschool-8

• Student Population: ~400

• Highlights: Fairmont’s Historic Anaheim Campus is renowned for its rigorous academics and nurturing environment. The school offers advanced programs, including preparation for early college entrance, as seen with a 14-year-old student accepted into CSU Los Angeles’ Early Entrance Program. Fairmont emphasizes social-emotional learning and extracurriculars like ice hockey, competing in the Anaheim Ducks High School Hockey League. Parent reviews praise the dedicated teachers and close-knit community.

• Neighborhood: Central Anaheim, near The Colony. This area’s affordability and proximity to cultural attractions make it a draw for families seeking private school options without the high costs of Anaheim Hills.

Servite High School

• Location: 1952 W. La Palma Ave., Anaheim, CA 92801

• Grades: 9-12

• Student Population: ~800

• Highlights: Servite, an all-boys Catholic school, is one of the top-ranked private high schools in Anaheim. It offers a college-preparatory curriculum with a focus on faith, leadership, and brotherhood. The school’s college readiness programs are exceptional, with counselors providing personalized support during the application process. Niche reviews highlight the welcoming community and strong athletics, with teams competing at state levels.

• Neighborhood: Northwest Anaheim, a working-class area with single-family homes and newer townhome developments. Homes here are more affordable, averaging $550,000-$600,000, ideal for families seeking value.

St. Justin Martyr School

• Location: 2030 W. Ball Rd., Anaheim, CA 92804

• Grades: K-8

• Student Population: ~200

• Highlights: This Catholic school emphasizes academic excellence and spiritual growth, fostering disciples of Jesus Christ. It offers a well-rounded curriculum with art, music, and sports programs. Parents appreciate the school’s commitment to service and community, as noted in online reviews. The smaller student population allows for personalized attention.

• Neighborhood: West Anaheim, known for its parks and family-friendly vibe. With an average household income of $70,844 and home prices around $583,000, this area appeals to middle-income families.

Charter Schools and Alternative Options

Orange County School of the Arts (OCSA)

• Location: 1010 N. Main St., Santa Ana, CA 92701 (serves Anaheim residents)

• Grades: 7-12

• Student Population: ~2,200

• Highlights: While located just outside Anaheim, OCSA is a popular choice for families in the area due to its exceptional arts-focused curriculum. The school combines rigorous academics with professional training in visual arts, music, theater, and dance. Reddit users praise OCSA for its unique offerings, though note that academics may not be as competitive as some Irvine schools. Admission is selective, based on auditions and academic records.

• Neighborhood: Accessible from Northeast Anaheim, a suburban area with homes ranging from $895,000 to $1,695,000. This neighborhood offers parks, schools, and retail, making it ideal for families with students commuting to OCSA.

Neighborhoods with Great Schools for Homebuyers

When choosing a home in Anaheim, aligning your purchase with a top school’s attendance zone can enhance both your family’s experience and property value. Here are key neighborhoods with excellent schools:

• Anaheim Hills: Home to Canyon High School and private options like Fairmont Anaheim Hills, this upscale area offers luxury homes ($1.3M average) and top-tier schools. It’s ideal for families prioritizing safety and premium education.

• The Colony: This historic district, served by Franklin Elementary and Fairmont Historic Anaheim, combines affordability (homes ~$600,000) with quality schools and a lower crime rate. It’s perfect for first-time buyers.

• Southwest Anaheim: With schools like Ponderosa Elementary, this vibrant neighborhood offers homes around $662,000 and access to parks and amenities, appealing to families seeking value and community.

• Northwest Anaheim: Home to Servite High School and newer townhomes (~$550,000-$600,000), this working-class area is diverse and family-friendly, with easy access to schools and local eateries.

• Northeast Anaheim: Served by OCSA and other public schools, this suburban area has homes from $895,000 to $1,695,000, offering a calm lifestyle with city perks.

Tips for Choosing a School and Neighborhood

1. Research School Ratings: Use platforms like GreatSchools, Niche, or Public School Review to compare test scores, graduation rates, and parent reviews.

2. Visit Schools: Schedule tours to observe classrooms, meet teachers, and assess facilities. Parent involvement and school culture are key indicators of quality.

3. Consider Commute and Amenities: Ensure the neighborhood aligns with your lifestyle, with access to parks, healthcare, and shopping. Areas like Anaheim Hills and Southwest Anaheim offer robust amenities.

4. Check District Boundaries: Some homes near Anaheim’s borders may fall into neighboring districts like Placentia-Yorba Linda, which can affect school assignments and home prices.

5. Evaluate Long-Term Needs: Choose schools that support your child’s academic and extracurricular interests, whether through AP courses, arts programs, or sports.

Community Insights from Anaheim Residents

Feedback from Anaheim educators and parents underscores the value of local schools. A former Anaheim educator shared on Reddit that their elementary students have gone on to prestigious universities like UCLA and Oxford, highlighting the potential for success in public schools. Others emphasize that parent involvement and a supportive home environment can outweigh school ratings, particularly in diverse districts like Anaheim Union High School District.

Conclusion

Anaheim offers a wealth of educational options for families buying a home, from high-performing public schools like Canyon High and Franklin Elementary to esteemed private institutions like Fairmont and Servite. By targeting neighborhoods like Anaheim Hills, The Colony, or Southwest Anaheim, families can find homes that align with top schools and their budget. As you navigate the home-buying process, prioritize school quality, visit campuses, and explore neighborhoods to ensure a perfect fit for your family’s needs. With careful planning, Anaheim can be the ideal place to call home, offering both educational excellence and a vibrant community for your children to thrive.