Best public high schools in Massachusetts
As filmmaker and writer Nora Ephron said during a ’96 commencement address at Wellesley College, “Your education is a dress rehearsal for a life that is yours to lead.” If that’s the case, high school may be one of the greatest dress rehearsals of all.
It’s a place where students explore their interests, dive into extracurricular activities, finally get the freedom to choose their own classes, and prepare for college or the workplace. For many of these students and their families, public education is key: 49.4 million students enrolled in public pre-K-12 schools in fall 2021, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. Of those, about a third were in high school, enrolled across about 23,500 public secondary schools nationwide.
For many anxious parents, getting their kids into the best of these public high schools is of the utmost importance. Some families even move homes to get into better school districts. However, among all of these thousands of schools, a few stand out for their academic excellence, incredible track records, and the future success of their young students.
Stacker compiled a list of the 30 best public high schools in Massachusetts using 2023 rankings from Niche. Niche uses seven weighted factors for its rankings. A majority of the score is based on academics, but other factors include culture and diversity; sports; clubs and activities; resources; and surveys of parents, teachers, and students. School districts are provided when available; otherwise, the city is listed instead.
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#30. Medfield Senior High School
– Location: Medfield Public Schools, MA
– Enrollment: 750 (13:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A
Where is Medfield?
Medfield, Massachusetts is a historic and family-friendly town located in Norfolk County, about 20 miles southwest of Boston. Known for its top-rated public schools, quiet neighborhoods, and classic New England charm, Medfield blends a strong sense of community with access to modern amenities.
The town features preserved green spaces, scenic walking trails, and a vibrant downtown area with local shops, cafes, and restaurants. With its proximity to Boston, Worcester (35 miles west), and Providence, Rhode Island (30 miles south), Medfield offers residents a peaceful suburban lifestyle with convenient connections to surrounding cities.
#29. Lynnfield High School
– Location: Lynnfield Public Schools, MA
– Enrollment: 564 (12:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A
Where is Lynnfield?
Lynnfield, Massachusetts is a suburban community located about 15 miles north of Boston in Essex County. Known for its strong school system, including Lynnfield Public Schools, the town offers a quiet residential atmosphere with well-maintained neighborhoods and a high quality of life. Lynnfield is positioned near major highways like I-95 and Route 1, making it convenient for commuters traveling to Boston or other parts of New England. The area features access to shopping centers, parks, and local amenities while preserving a close-knit community feel.
#28. Advanced Math & Science Academy Charter School
– Location: Marlborough, MA
– Enrollment: 965 (12:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A
Where is Marlborough?
Marlborough, Massachusetts is a thriving city in Middlesex County, located about 30 miles west of Boston and 15 miles east of Worcester. Known for its blend of suburban comfort and business activity, Marlborough hosts a range of tech companies and corporate offices, particularly along the Route 495 corridor. The city features a diverse population, well-regarded public schools, multiple parks, and easy access to major highways. Its central location in eastern Massachusetts makes it convenient for commuting, while still offering a strong sense of community and local charm.
#27. The Bromfield School
– Location: Harvard Public Schools, MA
– Enrollment: 573 (11:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A
Where is Harvard?
Harvard, Massachusetts is a small, rural town located about 25 miles northwest of Boston in Worcester County. Known for its scenic landscapes, conservation land, and apple orchards, Harvard offers a peaceful residential setting with a strong sense of community. The town is home to Harvard Public Schools, including Hildreth Elementary School.
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#26. Bedford High School
– Location: Bedford Public Schools, MA
– Enrollment: 849 (11:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A
Where is Bedford?
Bedford Public Schools in Bedford, Massachusetts, serve a suburban community located about 15 miles northwest of Boston. The district is recognized for its strong academic performance, inclusive programs, and commitment to innovation in education. With proximity to major highways like Route 3 and I-95, Bedford provides convenient access to Boston and surrounding tech hubs.
#25. Amherst Regional High School
– Location: Amherst-Pelham Regional School District, MA
– Enrollment: 858 (12:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
Where is Amherst?
The Amherst-Pelham Regional School District is located in western Massachusetts, serving the towns of Amherst, Pelham, Leverett, and Shutesbury. Centered around the vibrant college town of Amherst—home to the University of Massachusetts and Amherst College—the district benefits from a highly educated community and a strong emphasis on academic excellence. The area is situated approximately 20 miles north of Springfield and about 90 miles west of Boston.
#24. Shrewsbury Senior High School
– Location: Shrewsbury Public Schools, MA
– Enrollment: 1,835 (15:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
Where is Shrewsbury?
Shrewsbury High School is located in the town of Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, about 7 miles east of Worcester and 40 miles west of Boston. The school serves students from grades 9 through 12 and is known for its strong academic performance and competitive athletics.
#23. Westwood High School
– Location: Westwood Public Schools, MA•
– Enrollment: 952 (10:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
Where is Westwood?
Westwood High School is located in Westwood, Massachusetts, approximately 13 miles southwest of Boston and 25 miles northeast of Worcester. The school serves grades 9 through 12 and is part of a highly regarded public school system known for academic excellence and strong college preparatory programs. Positioned near major highways such as I-95 and Route 128, the school benefits from convenient access to Boston and surrounding area.
#22. Algonquin Regional High School
– Location: Northborough, MA
– Enrollment: 1,269 (11:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
Where is Northborough?
Algonquin Regional High School is located in Northborough, Massachusetts, about 35 miles west of Boston and 12 miles northeast of Worcester. The school serves students from both Northborough and Southborough, offering a strong academic curriculum and a wide range of extracurricular activities.
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#21. Cambridge Rindge & Latin School
– Location: Cambridge Public Schools, MA
– Enrollment: 1,867 (9:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
Where is Cambridge Public Schools?
Cambridge Rindge & Latin School (CRLS) is the sole public high school within Cambridge Public Schools, located in the heart of Cambridge, Massachusetts. Just across the Charles River from Boston, CRLS sits less than 5 miles from downtown and is surrounded by world-renowned institutions like Harvard University and MIT. The school serves grades 9 through 12 and is known for its diverse student body, strong academic programs, and commitment to equity and social justice. Its urban location offers students access to extensive cultural, educational, and career resources throughout the Greater Boston area.
#20. Needham High School
– Location: Needham Public Schools, MA
– Enrollment: 1,669 (13:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
Where is Needham Public Schools District?
Needham High School is part of the Needham Public Schools district, located in the suburban town of Needham, Massachusetts. Situated about 10 miles southwest of Boston, the school serves grades 9 through 12 and is recognized for its strong academic performance, competitive athletics, and active student organizations. Needham High offers a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum alongside a supportive school community. Its location near major routes like I-95 and Route 9 provides convenient access to Boston and surrounding areas while maintaining a classic New England suburban environment.
#19. Sturgis Charter Public School
– Location: Hyannis, MA
– Enrollment: 846 (9:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
Where is Hyannis?
Hyannis, Massachusetts is a bustling village located within the town of Barnstable on Cape Cod. Often referred to as the commercial and transportation hub of the Cape, Hyannis is home to ferry terminals serving Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard, as well as the region’s largest airport, Barnstable Municipal Airport. It lies about 70 miles southeast of Boston and 30 miles east of the Cape Cod Canal. Known for its busy Main Street, beaches, and the John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum, Hyannis combines seaside charm with the conveniences of a regional center.
#18. Acton-Boxborough Regional High School
– Location: Acton-Boxborough Regional School District, MA
– Enrollment: 1,703 (13:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
Where is Acton-Boxborough Regional School District?
The Acton-Boxborough Regional School District is located in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, serving the neighboring towns of Acton and Boxborough. Situated about 25 miles northwest of Boston and 15 miles south of Lowell, the district is known for its high-performing schools, strong community involvement, and focus on academic excellence. Acton-Boxborough Regional High School is the district’s flagship high school, offering rigorous academics, a wide range of extracurriculars, and advanced placement opportunities. The district’s location provides a suburban environment with convenient access to major highways like Route 2 and I-495, connecting students and families to Greater Boston and beyond.
#17. Winchester High School
– Location: Winchester Public Schools, MA
– Enrollment: 1,349 (14:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
Where is Winchester?
Winchester High School is located in Winchester, Massachusetts, a suburban community approximately 8 miles north of downtown Boston. The school serves students in grades 9 through 12 and is recognized for its rigorous academics, strong arts and athletics programs, and high college placement rates. Situated near major routes and public transit options, Winchester High offers the benefits of a close-knit community with convenient access to the cultural and educational resources of the Greater Boston area.
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#16. Westford Academy
– Location: Westford Public Schools, MA
– Enrollment: 1,567 (13:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
Where is Westford?
Westford, Massachusetts is a suburban town located about 30 miles northwest of Boston in Middlesex County. Westford Public Schools serve the town’s residents and are widely recognized for academic excellence, strong community involvement, and a commitment to student achievement. The district includes well-regarded schools such as Westford Academy, one of the oldest public high schools in the United States. Located near Route 495 and Route 3, Westford offers convenient access to Greater Boston while maintaining a quiet, family-friendly atmosphere with a blend of historic charm and modern development.
#15. Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High School
– Location: Sudbury, MA
– Enrollment: 1,513 (12:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
Where is Sudbury?
Sudbury, Massachusetts is a historic and scenic town located about 20 miles west of Boston in Middlesex County. Known for its colonial heritage, preserved open spaces, and strong sense of community, Sudbury offers a peaceful residential environment with top-rated public schools. The town is served by the Sudbury Public Schools for grades K–8 and shares Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High School with neighboring Lincoln. With convenient access to Route 20 and nearby highways, Sudbury provides a balance of small-town charm and accessibility to the Greater Boston area.
#14. Dover-Sherborn Regional High School
– Location: Dover-Sherborn Regional School District, MA
– Enrollment: 657 (12:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
Where is Dover-Sherborn Regional School District?
The Dover-Sherborn Regional School District serves the neighboring towns of Dover and Sherborn in eastern Massachusetts. Located about 20 miles southwest of Boston, the district is known for its consistently top-ranked schools, small class sizes, and strong academic performance. Dover-Sherborn High School, serving grades 9–12, offers a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum along with a wide range of extracurricular activities. The district’s location provides a quiet, rural-suburban setting with convenient access to major routes and the cultural resources of the Greater Boston area.
#13. Wayland High School
– Location: Wayland Public Schools, MA
– Enrollment: 831 (11:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
Where is Wayland?
Wayland, Massachusetts is a suburban town located about 18 miles west of Boston in Middlesex County. Served by Wayland Public Schools, the town is known for its high-performing schools, strong community support, and emphasis on academic and personal development. Wayland High School consistently ranks among the top public high schools in the state, offering a rigorous curriculum and a wide array of extracurricular programs. The town’s location provides a quiet, residential atmosphere with convenient access to Boston, major highways, and nearby educational and cultural resources.
#12. Westborough High School
– Location: Westborough Public Schools, MA
– Enrollment: 1,178 (12:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
Where is Westborough?
Westborough, Massachusetts is a centrally located town in Worcester County, approximately 35 miles west of Boston and 12 miles east of Worcester. Served by Westborough Public Schools, the town is known for its strong academic programs, diverse community, and well-rounded student opportunities. Westborough High School offers a wide range of Advanced Placement courses, extracurricular activities, and athletics. With easy access to major routes like I-90 (Mass Pike), I-495, and Route 9, Westborough provides a convenient and well-connected suburban environment.
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#11. Sharon High School
– Location: Sharon Public Schools, MA
– Enrollment: 1,139 (11:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
Where is Sharon?
Sharon, Massachusetts is a suburban town located about 22 miles south of Boston in Norfolk County. Served by Sharon Public Schools, the town is widely recognized for its academic excellence, cultural diversity, and community engagement. Sharon High School consistently ranks among the top public high schools in Massachusetts, offering strong college preparatory programs and a broad range of extracurriculars. With its location near I-95 and the MBTA commuter rail, Sharon offers convenient access to both Boston and Providence while maintaining a peaceful, residential atmosphere.
#10. Wellesley Senior High School
– Location: Wellesley Public Schools, MA
– Enrollment: 1,406 (12:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
Where is Wellesley?
Wellesley, Massachusetts is an affluent suburban town located about 15 miles west of Boston in Norfolk County. Served by Wellesley Public Schools, the town is known for its outstanding academic performance, highly regarded faculty, and strong community involvement. Wellesley High School offers a rigorous curriculum, numerous Advanced Placement courses, and a wide range of extracurricular and athletic programs. With its location near Route 9, I-90, and the MBTA commuter rail, Wellesley combines suburban charm with easy access to the cultural and educational resources of Greater Boston.
#9. Newton South High School
– Location: Newton Public Schools, MA
– Enrollment: 1,837 (12:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
Where is Newton South?
Located about 7 miles west of downtown Boston, Newton is a large suburban city known for its village-style neighborhoods and high-performing school system. Newton Public Schools consistently rank among the top in Massachusetts, offering rigorous academics, diverse extracurricular programs, and a strong commitment to equity and inclusion. The district benefits from its proximity to Boston’s educational institutions and cultural opportunities.
#8. Hopkinton High School
– Location: Hopkinton Public Schools, MA
– Enrollment: 1,212 (14:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
Where is Hopkinton?
Hopkinton, Massachusetts is a suburban town located about 30 miles west of Boston in Middlesex County. Served by Hopkinton Public Schools, the town is widely recognized for its top-ranked academic performance, strong community support, and well-rounded educational programs. Hopkinton High School consistently ranks among the best public high schools in Massachusetts, offering a rigorous curriculum and a broad range of extracurricular and athletic opportunities. Positioned near I-495 and the starting point of the Boston Marathon, Hopkinton offers a family-friendly environment with convenient access to Greater Boston.
#7. Belmont High School
– Location: Belmont Public Schools, MA
– Enrollment: 1,329 (16:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
Where is Belmont?
Belmont High School is located in Belmont, Massachusetts, a suburban town just 8 miles northwest of Boston. As part of Belmont Public Schools, the high school is known for its academic excellence, strong college preparatory programs, and active student involvement in arts, athletics, and civic engagement. The school consistently ranks among the top public high schools in the state. Its location provides students with a supportive community and easy access to the educational and cultural resources of the Greater Boston area.
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#6. Newton North High School
– Location: Newton Public Schools, MA
– Enrollment: 2,098 (11:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
Where is Newton North?
Newton Public Schools, located in Newton, Massachusetts, is one of the top-performing school districts in the state. Situated just 7 miles west of Boston, the district serves a diverse and academically driven community across 15 elementary schools, 4 middle schools, and 2 high schools—Newton North and Newton South. Known for its rigorous academics, inclusive programs, and strong arts and athletics, the district emphasizes equity, innovation, and student well-being. Its location provides students and families with access to world-class universities, cultural institutions, and career opportunities throughout the Greater Boston area.
#5. Brookline High School
– Location: Public Schools of Brookline, MA
– Enrollment: 2,087 (11:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
Where is Brookline?
Brookline High School is located in Brookline, Massachusetts, just a few miles west of downtown Boston. As part of the Public Schools of Brookline, it serves a diverse and academically engaged student body in grades 9–12. The school is known for its strong academic programs, robust arts and athletics, and a wide array of Advanced Placement and elective offerings. Its urban-suburban location provides students with access to the cultural, educational, and professional resources of the Greater Boston area.
#4. Boston Latin School
– Location: Boston Public Schools, MA
– Enrollment: 2,416 (20:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
Where is Boston?
Boston Public Schools is the largest school district in Massachusetts, serving a diverse population across more than 100 schools. Located in the heart of the city, the district emphasizes equity, innovation, and access to quality education for all students. BPS offers a wide range of specialized programs, including exam schools, dual-language programs, and STEM initiatives.
#3. Weston High School
– Location: Weston Public Schools, MA
– Enrollment: 638 (11:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
Where is Weston?
Weston is an affluent suburb located about 15 miles west of Boston in Middlesex County. Weston Public Schools are consistently ranked among the top in the state, known for their rigorous academics, small class sizes, and strong support for the arts and athletics. The district serves a close-knit, high-achieving community with a strong emphasis on student success.
#2. Lexington High School
– Location: Lexington Public Schools, MA
– Enrollment: 2,273 (12:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
Where is Lexington?
Lexington Public Schools, located in Lexington, Massachusetts, are consistently recognized as some of the top-performing schools in the state. Situated about 11 miles northwest of Boston, the district serves a diverse and highly engaged community. Known for its rigorous academics, broad Advanced Placement course selection, and nationally recognized music, arts, and STEM programs, Lexington provides students with a well-rounded and challenging education. The district’s reputation for excellence draws families from across the country and around the world, making it a cornerstone of the town’s identity.
#1. MA Academy for Math & Science School
– Location: Worcester, MA
– Enrollment: 100 (14:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
Where is Worcester?
Worcester, Massachusetts is a centrally located city in the heart of the state, approximately 45 miles west of Boston. Known as the “Heart of the Commonwealth,” Worcester blends urban energy with historic charm and a strong academic presence. It is home to numerous colleges and universities, including Clark University, Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI), and UMass Chan Medical School. With direct access to major highways like I-290, I-90 (Mass Pike), and Route 9, Worcester serves as a key hub for central Massachusetts and offers a diverse mix of culture, healthcare, education, and commerce.
This story features data reporting and writing by Emma Rubin and is part of a series utilizing data automation across 50 states.
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