By Chris Nevada | Nevada Real Estate Group | Updated June 2026
The city of Reno, Nevada is home to the Washoe County School District — the second-largest district in Nevada — which administers secondary schools across the city, nearby Sparks, and unincorporated areas such as Verdi, Incline Village, Sun Valley, and Gerlach. According to the Washoe County School District, WCSD serves approximately 64,000 students across 96 schools, 12 of which are high schools. For families choosing a neighborhood in Northern Nevada, which high school is nearby matters as much as square footage and price.
Across the 9,600-plus closings Nevada Real Estate Group — the number-one real estate team in Nevada — has represented, we have helped dozens of families relocating to Reno prioritize school districts before choosing a neighborhood. In our experience, families comparing neighborhoods like South Meadows, Somersett, and Midtown almost always ask the same question first: which high school would my child attend? This guide is our answer.
Reno's top public high schools in 2026 include AACT, Coral Academy of Science, Reno High School, Galena High School, Robert McQueen High School, and Damonte Ranch High School — all within the Washoe County School District, which serves roughly 64,000 students across 12 high schools. Home prices near top-rated schools range from $450,000 in established Central Reno neighborhoods to over $700,000 in South Meadows. Call (775) 277-2120 to find the right school zone for your family.
- AACT is Reno's flagship magnet school — 100% graduation rate, seven career pathways, open to any Washoe County address.
- South Reno's Galena zone (89511) commands $550,000 to $900,000 for single-family homes near top AP programs.
- Damonte Ranch High serves Southeast Reno's master-planned corridor; median home prices run approximately $600,000.
- Coral Academy of Science offers PLTW STEAM coursework and up to 42 transferable college credits at no tuition cost.
- Call (775) 277-2120 — Nevada Real Estate Group runs school-zone home searches across all Reno high school areas.
What Makes Reno High Schools Stand Out in Nevada?
According to the Nevada Department of Education, Washoe County School District consistently outperforms the statewide average on graduation rates and college-readiness metrics. The district's 12 high schools range from traditional comprehensive schools serving 1,500 to 1,800 students to specialized magnet and charter campuses. Key differentiators include:
- A county-wide magnet school system (AACT is the flagship) that accepts students regardless of home address
- Charter options like Coral Academy of Science that are free and open-enrollment
- Strong AP and dual-enrollment programs at Galena, McQueen, and Damonte Ranch
- IB-preparatory coursework at select schools
- WCSD's dual-enrollment partnership with UNR, allowing qualifying juniors and seniors to earn college credits at no cost
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, WCSD spends above the Nevada state average per pupil, driven by strong property-tax revenues from tech, logistics, and gaming sector growth.
For families making a relocation decision, school-zone boundaries matter enormously — and those boundaries have shifted as new subdivisions have been added in South Reno and Spanish Springs. Browse Reno homes for sale or new construction options to filter by neighborhood, or call (775) 277-2120 to confirm zone assignments.
How Do Reno's Top High Schools Compare to Each Other?
| School | Type | Specialty Programs | Neighborhood / Area | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AACT | Magnet Public | 7 career pathways, CTE, 100% grad rate | Near RNO Airport (89502) | Career-focused students, open to all addresses |
| Coral Academy of Science | Charter Public (STEAM) | PLTW engineering, 42 college credits, honors | South Reno, Neil Road (89511) | STEM-focused students, college-track families |
| Reno High School | Traditional Public | 3 orchestras, 4 bands, Speech and Debate (24 state titles) | Midtown / Central Reno (89509) | Arts, music, and debate families; historic campus |
| Galena High School | Traditional Public | 10+ AP classes, athletics, fine arts | South Reno / Galena area (89511) | Academic-focused students in South Reno suburbs |
| Robert McQueen High School | Traditional Public | Global Studies Academy, AP, marching band | West Reno / Verdi area (89523) | Families in Somersett and Northwest Reno |
| Damonte Ranch High School | Traditional Public | AP classes, sports, fine arts | Damonte Ranch / South Meadows (89521) | Newer construction buyers in Southeast Reno |
Academy of Arts Careers and Technology
Address: 380 Edison Way, Reno, NV 89502
Phone Number: (775) 327-3920
Website: https://www.aacttrailblazers.com/
The Academy of Arts Careers and Technology is considered the top high school within Reno, Nevada as well as the Washoe County School District. This well-rated school offers students a choice of seven different fields of study which helps guide pupils along a career path.
The Business and Finance path focuses on courses such as Computer Literacy, Entrepreneurship, Personal Finance, and Marketing. Communication Arts and Media offers courses such as Graphic Design and Photography. Hospitality students have classes like Baking and Pastry, Culinary Arts, and Hospitality Management. Teaching and Training focus on Human Development and Teaching, whereas Engineering and Renewable Energy students will attend classes such as Drafting, Intro to Metal Work, and Welding. Medical Careers offers courses for students such as Medical Terminology and Health Science. Finally, Natural Resources and Animal Science students attend courses such as Veterinary Sciences, Horticulture, and more.
According to GreatSchools, AACT consistently receives among the highest ratings of any public high school in Northern Nevada, driven in part by its career-and-technical education (CTE) model and its record of high engagement among students from a broad range of socioeconomic backgrounds.
Between the specialty programs available and the dedicated and engaged staff and teachers, students at AACT are connected to the community and encouraged to embrace their leadership potential and civic responsibility. The school building itself is located along Edison Way, near the Reno-Tahoe International Airport. The "green" building features two storeys and is divided into two wings. The newer half is a 46,000 square foot section that offers a fully operational bank, bakery, restaurant, and greenhouse.
This award-winning school is a Magnet High School that has routinely seen a 100% graduation rate. There are approximately 575 students who attend the highly rated high school.
Real estate context: Because AACT is a magnet school with open enrollment across Washoe County, families do not need to buy in a specific zone to attend. Entry-level homes within a 10-minute drive of the Edison Way campus range from approximately $280,000 for a condominium to $500,000 for a three-bedroom single-family home. First-time buyers should also explore our buyers resources for guidance on home loans in Northern Nevada. Call (775) 277-2120.
View All Homes Near Academy of Arts Careers and Technology
Coral Academy of Science High School
Address: 6275 Neil Road, Reno, Nevada 89511
Phone Number: (775) 829-4601
Website: https://coralacademy.org/
Coral Academy of Science High School is the largest charter high school in Washoe County. A newer addition to the academic landscape in Reno, CAS High School opened its doors to Reno and surrounding communities in August of 2015. The STEAM high school not only offers students a wide mix of programs, classes, and courses — they also feature league-sanctioned sports teams.
The school is a great opportunity for students, especially those interested in the fields of Science and Technology. CAS High offers the PLTW programs, which is a four-year, honors level, interdisciplinary program in math, science, and engineering. Students enrolled in this program will have access to hands-on learning, project-based activities, and much more.
Students who attend the Coral Academy of Science can also get a jump start on their college credits. There are up to 42 credits to be earned as part of the College Credit Program offered. From the beginning of a student's educational journey (there is an elementary and middle school campus as well), the CAS motto has been "What college will you attend?" versus "Will I attend college?" With this mindset, the school, teachers, and students work toward this goal right from the primary grades.
According to the Nevada Department of Education, Coral Academy of Science High School has routinely received a "High Achieving" status, as well as recognition for exceptional performance in STEAM-focused coursework. Along with its high graduation rate, CAS is a compelling choice for any family with a college-bound student.
Real estate context: Coral Academy of Science is a charter school with district-wide open enrollment. The Neil Road campus is located in South Reno, in the 89511 zip code. Families who want proximity to the campus will find single-family homes in the surrounding neighborhoods (Galena Forest, Arrowcreek, and South Meadows adjacent) ranging from approximately $550,000 for a modest four-bedroom home to over $1,200,000 for estate properties with mountain views. The 89511 area is one of the most sought-after zip codes in northern Nevada.
View All Homes Near Coral Academy of Science High School
Reno High School
Address: 395 Booth Street, Reno, Nevada 89509
Phone Number: (775) 333-5050
Website: https://www.washoeschools.net/renohs
Home of the Huskies, Reno High School is another of Reno's top-rated secondary schools. Home to over 1,600 students throughout the academic year, Reno High offers education for students from grades nine through twelve.
The school is known for its slogan "Reno High - Older than Reno," due to the fact the first classes for high schoolers in Reno date back to the mid-1800s, though the generally accepted founding date is 1879. There have been many changes made throughout the years as the world developed, the area populated, and education evolved. The school has been in its current building since 1951, though many upgrades and additions have been made over time.
Along with the educational classes offered out of Reno High School, students can also enjoy a wide number of extracurricular activities. Reno High has been the recipient of a handful of championships over the years in many different sports. From boys' cross country, which has won 11 state championships, to girls' basketball, which most recently won in 2014, the school excels in many other areas along with academics.
Arts and music enthusiasts will have plenty of opportunities to develop their craft with a large number of groups, clubs, and programs offered at Reno High. The school currently has three performing orchestras: Chamber Orchestra, Sinfonia, and Concert Orchestra. There are also four bands: Wind Ensemble, Jazz Band, Concert Band, and Pep Band. Many of these bands tour regularly and have been festival and concert winners.
Choirs, Performing Arts, and other activities are also highly rated within Reno High. The school's Speech and Debate team has won the state championship for 24 years consecutively as of 2019. According to Washoe County School District records, Reno High consistently maintains one of the highest four-year graduation rates in the district.
With the incredible opportunities for education combined with the laundry list of extracurriculars, Reno High School is a great school where students are sure to develop to their fullest potential both academically and personally.
Real estate context: Reno High's attendance zone covers Central Reno and Midtown, one of the most walkable and culturally rich parts of the city. The 89509 zip code includes a mix of older ranch-style homes, craftsman bungalows, and modern infill townhomes. Prices range from approximately $380,000 for a modest two-bedroom home to $750,000 or more for a remodeled four-bedroom in the established Lakeridge or Idlewild neighborhood. Midtown proximity adds a premium for walkability to restaurants, galleries, and the Truckee River Greenway.
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Galena High School
Address: 3600 Butch Cassidy Drive, Reno, Nevada 89511
Phone Number: (775) 851-5630
Website: https://www.washoeschools.net/
Galena High School is a highly ranked public secondary school within Reno, Nevada. Home to nearly 1,500 students, Galena High has been accredited by the Northwest Association of Accredited Schools. The school received national recognition from Newsweek, which named Galena High among the top 500 high schools in the country.
Galena High has been part of the community since it originally opened its doors for the 1992-1993 school year. Since then, students have been attending the school for its high quality of education and exceptional options for extracurricular activities.
Though the school is known for its heavy focus on academics, it also overachieves in areas such as sports and arts as well. Since it was founded, Galena High has gone on to win either a league, regional, or state championship in every sport that it offers. The school is also the first to achieve the "triple crown" in its division by winning basketball, baseball, and football titles within the same year. The fine arts program is equally impressive with a long list of choirs, ensembles, drama clubs, and music classes including bands, and more.
Many students elect to attend Galena High School due to its high standard for education and options of Advanced Placement classes. There are over 10 AP classes available at Galena High, which include AP Psychology, AP European History, AP Music Theory, and AP U.S. Government, among many others.
According to GreatSchools, Galena High School scores among the highest in Northern Nevada for academic outcomes, college readiness, and overall school quality ratings. The school's combination of rigorous academics, championship athletics, and strong fine arts programming makes it a top choice for South Reno families.
Galena High is a great option for those who want to focus strongly on their academics while being exposed to a wide range of extracurriculars, sports, and arts programs.
Real estate context: Galena High's attendance zone covers much of South Reno and some of the most desirable real estate in the region. The 89511 zip code features master-planned communities like Arrowcreek (guard-gated, $600,000 to $2,000,000+), South Meadows area subdivisions ($500,000 to $850,000), and established Galena Forest neighborhoods ($650,000 to $1,500,000). According to the Reno/Sparks Association of REALTORS, South Reno commands some of the highest median price-per-square-foot figures in the Washoe County market.
View All Homes Near Galena High School
Related Blog: Revealed: The Top 10 Neighborhoods in Reno, NV | Search all Reno homes
Robert McQueen High School
Address: 6055 Lancer Street, Reno, Nevada 89523
Phone Number: (775) 746-5880
Website: https://www.washoeschools.net/mcqueen
Named for Robert McQueen, who was a professor of psychology at the University of Nevada, McQueen High School is one of the top-rated secondary schools in Washoe County School District. The school was named after Dr. McQueen not only for the contributions that he made to education but also specifically to the district. He served on the board from 1969 to 1990 and even negotiated the sale of the lands (60 acres) that the high school sits on, which he acquired for only one dollar.
Robert McQueen High originally opened its doors to the Reno community in 1982 and was considered "in the middle of nowhere" as it was more than a mile from any other building. Since then the development of the area and Reno took over and now the school is centrally located within the growing northwest and west Reno corridor.
Students who attend McQueen High School are offered a selection of courses and programs including a number of Advanced Placement classes. Along with standard courses, McQueen High offers Global Studies — part of the school's Signature Academy, designed to prepare students for 21st-century life. There are two separate portions of the Global Studies program: International Studies and Fine Arts. The International Studies portion focuses on coursework such as ecological balance, global interaction, and diplomacy, among others. The Fine Art portion immerses students in two world languages, Human Geography, and more. Both Global Studies and Fine Arts are four-year study programs that include a number of Advanced Placement classes.
Sports programs at Robert McQueen High are also an integral part of students' high school experience. The school, known as the Lancers, competes in the High Desert League, which is encompassed under the Northern Nevada 4A Region. A number of the teams throughout the years have won divisional and state championships.
Music and the arts are very popular at McQueen High School, with a range of choirs, choruses, bands, and more. The marching band has won 15 state championships, with the most recent being in 2019. They have also participated in a large number of parades around the country such as the Hollywood Christmas Parade in Los Angeles, the Fiesta Bowl Parade in Phoenix, the Presidential Inaugural Parade in Washington D.C., and the Reno Rodeo Parade.
According to Washoe County School District, McQueen's Global Studies Signature Academy has earned regional and national recognition as a model for integrating world languages and social sciences into a four-year secondary program.
Robert McQueen High is a well-rated secondary school that perfectly blends excellent education options, a range of classes, extracurricular activities, and much more for students to take advantage of.
Real estate context: McQueen High serves the Somersett community, Northwest Reno, and areas along the Reno-Sparks border on the west side. Somersett, a gated master-planned community in the 89523 zip code, is particularly popular with McQueen-zone buyers — single-family homes here range from approximately $550,000 for a newer townhome to over $1,000,000 for larger estate lots with Sierra Nevada views. The Northwest Reno corridor offers newer construction from major builders, with prices typically between $450,000 and $750,000.
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Damonte Ranch High School
Address: 10500 Rio Wrangler Parkway, Reno, Nevada 89521
Phone Number: (775) 851-5656
Website: https://www.washoeschools.net/drhs
Opened in 2003, Damonte Ranch High School quickly became one of the top-ranking secondary schools in the area. Damonte Ranch is the newest public high school within Washoe County and opened as a response to the quickly expanding Damonte Ranch master-planned development in Southeast Reno.
Located in the Truckee Valley, Damonte Ranch High welcomes students from the area for grades nine through twelve. There are currently over 1,800 students enrolled at the high school, which is known for its strong academic performance as well as extracurricular programs.
On the school's website, it describes their goal as preparing students for higher education, careers, and active citizenship. There are a number of ways in which the school works to help students achieve success both academically and personally — whether it be through the many Advanced Placement classes offered, special education programs, counseling for both personal and career reasons, and the wide variety of extracurriculars.
Students who attend Damonte High enjoy a strong athletic program with teams such as swimming, field hockey, football, basketball, volleyball, and more. The school also has a diverse and exciting fine arts department that offers drama, band, music, and art.
Damonte High has seamlessly integrated into the Reno school system, and like many of the area schools, rates highly for academics and sports. Students enjoy the newer building, caring staff, and engaged teachers who work to provide a welcoming and inclusive learning environment for all who attend.
According to GreatSchools, Damonte Ranch High School consistently earns high ratings for student academic growth and college readiness, reflecting the school's mission to prepare graduates for post-secondary success in a rapidly evolving economy.
Real estate context: Damonte Ranch High serves the Damonte Ranch master-planned community, South Meadows, and Double Diamond Ranch — among the fastest-growing residential areas in Washoe County. The 89521 zip code includes single-family homes priced from approximately $450,000 for a three-bedroom entry-level home to over $1,000,000 for estate lots. Newer construction from builders like Toll Brothers, Lennar, and DR Horton has base prices starting around $500,000 for a four-bedroom new build. Browse current Reno listings or call (775) 277-2120.
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Which Reno Neighborhoods Feed the Top High Schools?
Choosing the right school zone often starts with choosing the right neighborhood. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Reno's population has grown roughly 20% over the past decade, and that growth has been concentrated in South Reno, Northwest Reno, and the Damonte Ranch corridor — all areas served by top-rated high schools.
| Neighborhood / Area | High School Zone | Median Home Price (approx.) | Area Character |
|---|---|---|---|
| Midtown / Central Reno (89509) | Reno High School | $450,000 - $700,000 | Walkable, urban, historic homes, arts district |
| South Reno / Galena area (89511) | Galena High School / CAS | $600,000 - $1,200,000 | Upscale suburbs, mountain views, newer builds |
| Somersett / NW Reno (89523) | Robert McQueen High | $500,000 - $900,000 | Gated community, Sierra views, newer builds |
| Damonte Ranch / SE Reno (89521) | Damonte Ranch High | $475,000 - $850,000 | Master-planned, newer construction, family-focused |
| Airport / Edison Way (89502) | AACT (magnet — open enrollment) | $300,000 - $500,000 | Mid-century, diverse, more affordable entry points |
| Neil Road corridor (89511) | Coral Academy of Science (charter) | $550,000 - $1,000,000 | Newer subdivisions, close to Arrowcreek and Mt. Rose Hwy |
In our experience across hundreds of relocation consultations in Northern Nevada, families consistently underestimate how much school boundaries can shift with a single street. For example, two homes on opposite sides of a collector road in South Reno can feed Galena versus Damonte Ranch — with a $50,000 price difference but the same school-quality tier. Always confirm your child's assigned school via the WCSD school finder at washoeschools.net. Families also planning visits to Lake Tahoe or considering Incline Village will find those communities in our Northern Nevada directory.
What Are the Private and Alternative High School Options in Reno?
Public and charter schools are the primary choice for most families in Reno and Sparks, but several respected private high schools also serve the metro. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, private school enrollment in the Reno-Sparks metro runs between $8,000 and $18,000 annually in tuition for most high schools.
Notable private high school options in the Reno area include:
Bishop Manogue Catholic High School (8101 Don Julio Blvd, Reno, NV 89506): One of the most established private high schools in the region, Bishop Manogue is a Roman Catholic institution serving students in grades nine through twelve. The school is known for strong academics, athletics, and a faith-based learning environment. Annual tuition runs approximately $12,000 to $15,000 depending on grade level and family parish affiliation. The school serves students from across Washoe County and draws from neighborhoods throughout Reno and Sparks.
Sage Ridge School (2515 Crossbow Ct, Reno, NV 89511): A college-preparatory independent school in South Reno, Sage Ridge serves students from kindergarten through twelfth grade. The high school program emphasizes small class sizes, individualized instruction, and a rigorous college-prep curriculum. Tuition for high school grades runs approximately $18,000 to $22,000 per year.
Wooster High School and Sparks High School are additional comprehensive public high schools in the district for families whose addresses fall in those zones. Both offer solid academic programs and extracurricular activities.
For families evaluating private versus public options, the calculus comes down to class size, program fit, and budget. The largest financial advantage of public schools — including top-rated Galena, McQueen, and AACT — is that high-quality education is available at no direct tuition cost. Private school tuition of $10,000 to $18,000 per year represents a meaningful addition to a family's housing budget. Sellers looking to move to a top school zone should review our sellers resources for an accurate home-value estimate.
| School Type | Cost | Enrollment | Class Size (approx.) | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional Public | Free | Address-based zone | 25-32 per class | Reno High, Galena, McQueen, Damonte Ranch |
| Magnet Public | Free | District-wide open enrollment | 20-28 per class | Academy of Arts Careers and Technology (AACT) |
| Charter Public (STEAM) | Free | District-wide application | 18-25 per class | Coral Academy of Science High School |
| Private Religious | $12,000 - $15,000/yr | Open, faith-based preference | 15-22 per class | Bishop Manogue Catholic High School |
| Private Independent | $18,000 - $22,000/yr | Open, merit-based | 12-18 per class | Sage Ridge School |
What Does the Home-Buying Process Look Like When School Zones Drive the Decision?
When school proximity is the primary driver of a home search, Nevada Real Estate Group agents who specialize in Reno relocations use a three-step approach:
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Confirm the zone first. We verify your child's assigned school for each address under consideration using the WCSD school finder tool before any showings — a single block can shift an assignment from Galena to Damonte Ranch.
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Set the school-zone budget. If your budget is $500,000, a $500,000 home in the McQueen zone (89523) typically buys 1,800 to 2,200 square feet; the same budget in the Galena zone (89511) may yield only 1,400 to 1,700 square feet due to the South Reno premium.
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Search within the confirmed zone. Once the zone is locked, we filter inventory to that specific boundary and run a 90-day absorption analysis to gauge supply-demand pressure.
According to the Reno/Sparks Association of REALTORS, the Reno-Sparks median single-family home price was approximately $490,000 in mid-2026 — with South Reno running $60,000 to $100,000 above that median per square foot.
To start a school-zone search, call Nevada Real Estate Group at (775) 277-2120 or browse our Northern Nevada communities directory.
What Should Families Know About Washoe County School District Enrollment?
According to Washoe County School District, WCSD is the second-largest school district in Nevada with approximately 64,000 students. The district's school year typically begins in late August and ends in mid-June. Key enrollment facts for families planning a Reno relocation:
- Open enrollment: WCSD allows students to apply for open enrollment at any district school, subject to available seats and transportation limitations. Magnet and charter schools (AACT, Coral Academy) have separate enrollment processes with application deadlines.
- Boundary verification: School boundary maps are updated periodically. Always verify your specific home address at washoeschools.net before closing on a purchase.
- Transfer timing: Enrollment transfers for new residents are generally processed within a few weeks of providing proof of residency. Nevada requires residency documentation such as a lease, closing disclosure, or utility bill.
- Dual enrollment: WCSD partners with the University of Nevada, Reno for dual-enrollment opportunities that allow qualifying juniors and seniors to earn college credits at no cost. This is available at several comprehensive high schools including Galena, McQueen, and Damonte Ranch.
- AP and honors access: Advanced Placement courses are available at all comprehensive high schools. Galena and Reno High typically offer 15 or more AP sections per year.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Reno-Sparks metropolitan statistical area has maintained strong employment growth in education, healthcare, and logistics — sectors that contribute to the tax base supporting Washoe County's above-average per-pupil spending.
What School-Choice Strategies Do Reno Relocation Families Use?
Across the 9,600-plus closings Nevada Real Estate Group has represented, we have helped dozens of families relocate from California, Oregon, Arizona, and Texas to Reno and Sparks, with school quality as their primary selection criterion. In our experience, families who get the best outcome follow three consistent patterns:
Pattern 1: Prioritize the school zone, then find the best value within it. Identify the target zone (often Galena or AACT) and search for undervalued streets within it. A quieter block in a Galena-zone subdivision can be $40,000 below the same floor plan on the premium side.
Pattern 2: Use magnet and charter eligibility as a budget multiplier. A home in the 89502 zip code can be $150,000 to $200,000 less expensive than comparable square footage in the 89511 zip code — and the child still attends AACT via open enrollment.
Pattern 3: Verify before making an offer, not after. Always submit an address to the WCSD school locator before removing inspection contingencies. We handle this step for every client as part of our standard process.
For personalized guidance on which Reno school zone matches your family's needs and budget, contact Nevada Real Estate Group at (775) 277-2120 or through our contact page.
What Is the Outlook for Reno High School Quality in Coming Years?
According to the Nevada Department of Education, Nevada has made meaningful investments in K-12 education funding since the passage of the Student-Centered Funding Formula, which began phasing in during 2021-2022. For Washoe County, this funding model ties resources more closely to individual student needs and has supported expanded AP, CTE, and dual-enrollment offerings at high schools across the district.
New residential growth in Reno — particularly in the Damonte Ranch corridor, which has added several hundred new homes per year in the 89521 zip code over the past three years — has created demand for additional school capacity. According to Washoe County School District planning documents, the district monitors enrollment growth to identify when capacity expansions or new attendance boundaries become necessary.
For families purchasing a new-construction home in a rapidly growing subdivision, it is worth asking the builder's sales agent whether the current school assignment is expected to change as new boundary reviews occur. Nevada Real Estate Group agents familiar with the Damonte Ranch and South Meadows growth zones can help you ask the right questions.
Reno is home to a large number of exceptionally rated schools that have a common goal: educate, engage, and enrich the lives of all who attend. With so many great educational options for high school students in Reno, the opportunities are truly endless for what the future holds.
How Does Northern Nevada's Tax Climate Affect School Funding?
According to the Nevada Department of Taxation, Nevada funds K-12 education through a combination of property taxes, sales taxes, and state lottery proceeds — not through a state income tax, which Nevada does not levy. This means school funding is closely tied to property values and commercial activity, both of which have grown substantially in the Reno-Sparks metro over the past decade as companies like Tesla, Apple, Google, and Switch have brought major investment to the region.
For families relocating from states like California or Oregon where income tax is the primary funding vehicle, Nevada's approach means that high-growth areas like South Reno tend to have well-funded schools tied to strong commercial property tax bases. The Galena and Damonte Ranch zones benefit from the commercial development along South Virginia Street, Double Diamond Ranch, and the US-395 South corridor.
The absence of a Nevada state income tax — confirmed by Nevada Revised Statutes — is also a meaningful financial advantage for families. A household earning $150,000 per year relocating from California to Reno saves approximately $8,000 to $12,000 in state income tax annually — a sum that can meaningfully offset the premium paid for a home in a top school zone.
Are You Moving Your Family to Reno, NV?
Looking to relocate your family to Reno and find the right school zone? Allow our Northern Nevada real estate experts to guide you when purchasing your new property or the sale of your current residence. As local real estate agents, we have expert knowledge on the communities of Reno, Nevada, and can help your family find the perfect home in the right school district.
Contact Nevada Real Estate Group or call (775) 277-2120 to speak with an agent who specializes in school-zone relocation. Preparing to sell your current home? View our market analysis page for a home value estimate within moments.
Related Articles: Moving to Reno, NV: Honest Pros and Cons | Cost of Living in Reno Nevada 2026
Frequently Asked Questions About Reno High Schools
What are the top public high schools in Reno Nevada?
According to Washoe County School District, Reno's top public high schools include Academy of Arts Careers and Technology (magnet), Coral Academy of Science (charter STEAM), Reno High School, Galena High School, Robert McQueen High School, and Damonte Ranch High School. Each offers Advanced Placement courses, extracurricular programs, and strong graduation rates. Call (775) 277-2120 to ask which zone is right for your family.
Does Reno have any IB or magnet high schools?
Yes. Academy of Arts Careers and Technology (AACT) is Reno's flagship magnet high school with open enrollment across Washoe County — no specific home address required. Coral Academy of Science offers an honors-level PLTW STEAM curriculum similar to IB rigor. According to the Nevada Department of Education, both schools have consistently earned high-achieving status and strong performance ratings.
How do Reno high schools compare to other Nevada districts?
According to the Nevada Department of Education, Washoe County School District outperforms the state average on four-year graduation rates and college-readiness indicators. Clark County School District in Las Vegas is larger but more variable in school quality across zip codes. WCSD's smaller size — roughly 64,000 students versus CCSD's 300,000-plus — allows for more consistent resource allocation and stronger per-school administrative attention.
What high school should I consider when buying a home in Reno?
The answer depends on your child's interests and your budget. Families focused on STEM should look at Coral Academy of Science (South Reno, 89511) or AACT (open enrollment). Families seeking comprehensive AP programs should explore Galena (South Reno) or McQueen (Northwest Reno, Somersett area). Budget-conscious families can use AACT's magnet status to access top-quality education from more affordable addresses. Call Nevada Real Estate Group at (775) 277-2120 for a personalized school-zone home search.
Are there private high school options in Reno Nevada?
Yes. Bishop Manogue Catholic High School is the most established private option, with tuition of approximately $12,000 to $15,000 per year. Sage Ridge School in South Reno offers a college-preparatory independent school curriculum at approximately $18,000 to $22,000 per year. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, private school enrollment in the Reno metro is a small share of overall secondary enrollment — most families rely on the strong public school options in Washoe County.
How can I find out which high school my child would attend?
The Washoe County School District provides a school locator tool at washoeschools.net where you can enter any Reno or Sparks address to confirm your assigned school. Always verify before making an offer on a home — school boundaries can change, and two homes on opposite sides of a collector road can be assigned to different high schools. Nevada Real Estate Group agents confirm school assignments for every client before removing contingencies.
What is the Washoe County School District graduation rate?
According to the Nevada Department of Education, Washoe County School District maintains a four-year graduation rate above the Nevada state average. Individual schools like AACT and Coral Academy of Science have reported graduation rates at or near 100% in recent years. The district's partnership with the University of Nevada, Reno for dual-enrollment programs also supports college transition success for graduating seniors.
Which Sources Inform This Reno High Schools Guide?
This guide draws on public data, Northern Nevada market reports, and Nevada Real Estate Group's direct transaction experience in the Reno and Washoe County market. School assignments, boundaries, tuition figures, and neighborhood conditions change — confirm specifics with the relevant authority and a qualified professional before acting. This is general information, not educational, legal, or financial advice.
- Nevada Department of Education
- Washoe County School District
- GreatSchools — Reno Schools
- U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts — Reno
- National Center for Education Statistics
- Reno/Sparks Association of REALTORS
- Northern Nevada Regional MLS
- Nevada Department of Taxation
- Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS)
- Travel Nevada
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics — Reno-Sparks MSA
- Academy of Arts Careers and Technology (AACT)
- Coral Academy of Science
This guide provides general information about Reno high schools and their surrounding real estate markets. Verify current enrollment boundaries and school assignments directly with the Washoe County School District at washoeschools.net before making any purchase decision.
