The TOP Public Schools in Charlotte NC | Living in Charlotte North Carolina
Overview: Finding the Best Public Schools Around Charlotte
Relocating to the Queen City? Understanding school quality is often the first step to deciding where to live. In this video, Realtor Steve Jarrell breaks down the top-ranked public elementary, middle, and high schools in and around Charlotte, North Carolina (including nearby Union County and Fort Mill, SC). Rankings are based on performance data from GreatSchools.org.
Top 3 Elementary Schools
NOTE: Minority enrollment ranges from 26 % – 53 %, reflecting a healthy mix of backgrounds.
| # | School | Location | Students | Student-Teacher Ratio | Key Academics |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Providence Spring Elementary | South Charlotte – Piper Glen | ≈ 800 | 14 : 1 | Reading 85th %, Math/Science 95th % |
| 2 | New Town Elementary | Waxhaw (Union County) | ≈ 751 | 15 : 1 | Reading 95th %, Math 91st %, Science 94th % |
| 3 | Polo Ridge Elementary | South Charlotte – Ballantyne | ≈ 645 | 15 : 1 | Reading 84th %, Math/Science 91st % |
Top 3 Middle Schools
- Students: ≈ 1,200 | Ratio: 19 : 1
- Math 82nd %, Reading & Science 76th %
- Minority Enrollment: 42 %
- Students: ≈ 1,400 | Ratio: 21 : 1
- Math 85th %, Reading & Science 91st %
- Underserved-Student Performance: 85th %
- Students: ≈ 853 | Ratio: 15 : 1
- English 75th %, Math 65th %, Science 63rd %
- Low-Income Student Growth: 75th %
- JM Robinson Middle School – Ballantyne, NC
- Students: ≈ 1,200 | Ratio: 19 : 1
- Math 82nd %, Reading & Science 76th %
- Minority Enrollment: 42 %
- Harris Road Middle School – Concord / Mallard Creek area
- Students: ≈ 1,400 | Ratio: 21 : 1
- Math 85th %, Reading & Science 91st %
- Underserved-Student Performance: 85th %
- Fort Mill Middle School – Fort Mill, SC
- Students: ≈ 853 | Ratio: 15 : 1
- English 75th %, Math 65th %, Science 63rd %
- Low-Income Student Growth: 75th %
Top 3 High Schools
Honorable Mention: Weddington High School (Union County) – continually scores just outside the top three.
| # | School | Graduation Rate | College Readiness | Students | Minority % |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Marvin Ridge High School | 95 % | 94 % | ≈ 2,200 | 30 % |
| 2 | Ardrey Kell High School | 98 % | 67 % | ≈ 3,400 | 49 % |
| 3 | Providence High School | 95 % | 62 % | ≈ 2,000 | 30 % |
DIY School Research in 3 Easy Steps
- Visit GreatSchools.org.
- Type an address or city to view interactive zoning maps.
- Compare test scores, demographic data, and parent reviews to narrow your search.
Need Personalized Guidance?
Whether you’re eyeing South Charlotte, Union County, or Fort Mill, our team can match your home search to the perfect school zone. Reach out today!