Choosing the right neighborhood in St. Paul, MN, is a big decision for young families, especially when schools are a top priority. Fortunately, St. Paul boasts a variety of outstanding public, private, and charter schools catering to a range of educational philosophies and needs. Families looking to buy a home in St. Paul have a wealth of excellent options, and Sean Grady, the city’s top real estate agent, is here to provide valuable insights on the best neighborhoods with proximity to top-rated schools.
St Paul MN Real Estate and Homes For Sale
Why School Selection Matters When Buying a Home
For families moving to St. Paul, proximity to a great school can enhance not only your child’s education but also your community experience and even your property value. Well-regarded schools tend to drive demand in specific neighborhoods, which can mean higher resale values and a stronger sense of community.
Sean Grady, St. Paul’s leading real estate expert, frequently guides clients through the process of buying homes in areas with reputable schools. Let’s take a look at some of the best schools in St. Paul for young families, along with a breakdown of neighborhoods where these schools are located.
Top Elementary Schools in St. Paul for Young Families
1. St. Anthony Park Elementary School
Located in the charming St. Anthony Park neighborhood, St. Anthony Park Elementary consistently ranks among the top elementary schools in St. Paul. Known for its strong academic programs and vibrant arts curriculum, the school offers a well-rounded experience for young learners.
Why Families Love It: Parents love the school’s close-knit community and dedicated teachers, who foster a love for learning from an early age. The St. Anthony Park neighborhood is also known for its leafy streets, local parks, and easy access to amenities, making it an excellent choice for families looking to buy a home near a top school.
Neighborhood Tip: Real estate in St. Anthony Park is in high demand due to the school’s reputation and the area’s family-friendly environment. Sean Grady notes that homes here sell quickly, so young families looking to move should act fast when they find a property they love.
2. Groveland Park Elementary School
Situated in the heart of Macalester-Groveland, Groveland Park Elementary is another standout school. Known for its emphasis on inclusivity, academic rigor, and a strong sense of community, this school attracts many families who value a well-rounded education for their children.
Why Families Love It: The school’s focus on cultural diversity and strong academic performance makes it ideal for families looking for a nurturing educational environment. The Macalester-Groveland neighborhood also offers a walkable community with cafes, parks, and local shops, creating a perfect blend of urban and suburban life.
Neighborhood Tip: Homes in Macalester-Groveland are highly sought-after due to the school’s excellent reputation. Sean Grady advises home buyers to work with an experienced realtor to find the best properties that meet their family’s needs in this competitive area.
3. Horace Mann School
Located in the Highland Park neighborhood, Horace Mann School is one of the oldest and most reputable elementary schools in St. Paul. Known for its strong academic curriculum and excellent faculty, Horace Mann attracts families who prioritize high-quality education.
Why Families Love It: Parents appreciate the school’s commitment to academic excellence and the array of extracurricular activities available to students. The Highland Park area also offers a variety of family-friendly amenities, including parks, libraries, and shopping centers, making it a top choice for young families.
Neighborhood Tip: Highland Park is a popular area, with a mix of historic homes and newer builds. Sean Grady, the #1 real estate agent in St. Paul, notes that Highland Park properties often retain high value due to the neighborhood’s stability and access to great schools like Horace Mann.
Noteworthy Middle Schools in St. Paul
1. Capitol Hill Gifted and Talented Magnet School
Capitol Hill Gifted and Talented Magnet School is a magnet school serving both elementary and middle school students. Located in the North End of St. Paul, it is one of the top choices for academically gifted students and offers a rigorous curriculum designed to challenge young minds.
Why Families Love It: Capitol Hill’s curriculum is highly regarded for its ability to push students to achieve their best. The school has a strong focus on STEM, arts, and language arts, making it an excellent choice for students who thrive in an academically stimulating environment.
Neighborhood Tip: Homes near the North End neighborhood are often more affordable than other areas, providing good value for families looking to buy a home near a top school. Sean Grady suggests looking at properties near Capitol Hill if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option without compromising on school quality.
2. Highland Park Middle School
Another gem in the Highland Park neighborhood, Highland Park Middle School offers a comprehensive program for students and has a strong academic track record. The school’s close ties with the nearby elementary and high schools provide continuity, which many families find appealing.
Why Families Love It: Highland Park Middle’s emphasis on preparing students for high school and beyond makes it a popular choice. Parents love the school’s supportive environment and the sense of community it fosters.
Neighborhood Tip: Given the Highland Park area’s popularity, Sean Grady recommends working with a knowledgeable realtor to navigate the competitive market and find the best properties near Highland Park Middle School.
Top High Schools in St. Paul
1. Central High School
Central High School is one of St. Paul’s premier high schools, known for its Advanced Placement (AP) programs and high college acceptance rates. Located in the Summit-University neighborhood, Central High has a strong reputation for academic excellence.
Why Families Love It: Central High offers a range of AP courses, college prep resources, and extracurriculars that appeal to college-bound students. Parents value the school’s academic offerings and the diversity of the student body.
Neighborhood Tip: Summit-University has a range of housing options, from historic homes to modern condos. Sean Grady points out that this neighborhood provides a rich mix of cultural amenities, making it a top choice for families looking to balance educational opportunities with a vibrant lifestyle.
2. Highland Park Senior High School
Highland Park Senior High is part of the same educational continuum as Horace Mann and Highland Park Middle School. This high school offers the rigorous International Baccalaureate (IB) program, which is attractive to students aiming for competitive colleges.
Why Families Love It: Families appreciate the continuity of Highland Park’s educational pipeline, allowing students to remain in the same academic environment from elementary through high school. The IB program also appeals to families focused on a global, well-rounded education.
Neighborhood Tip: With its mix of parks, shopping, and dining options, Highland Park remains one of the most desirable neighborhoods in St. Paul. Sean Grady advises families looking for long-term housing to consider this area for its educational and lifestyle benefits.
Charter and Private School Options in St. Paul
In addition to public schools, St. Paul is home to several renowned charter and private schools. Here are a few to consider:
1. Nova Classical Academy
Nova Classical Academy is a top-rated charter school offering a classical education model from kindergarten through 12th grade. Known for its rigorous curriculum and high academic standards, Nova is a popular choice for families seeking an alternative to traditional public schooling.
Why Families Love It: The school’s strong emphasis on critical thinking and language arts sets students up for success in college and beyond. Nova’s curriculum is challenging but rewarding, and the school has a reputation for cultivating academic excellence.
2. St. Paul Academy and Summit School
This prestigious private school serves students from kindergarten through grade 12 and is known for its high academic standards, small class sizes, and individualized attention. Located in the Randolph neighborhood, it’s ideal for families looking for a private school environment.
Why Families Love It: St. Paul Academy offers a broad array of extracurricular activities, including arts and athletics, as well as strong academic programs. Parents appreciate the nurturing environment and personalized approach to education.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right School and Neighborhood
Choosing a school often means choosing a community. The right school can enhance a child’s education and social experience, while the right neighborhood offers a supportive environment for families to thrive.
When buying a home in St. Paul, working with a knowledgeable real estate agent like Sean Grady can make all the difference. As the #1 real estate agent in St. Paul, Sean has a deep understanding of the city’s neighborhoods and can help families find homes close to the schools that best suit their needs.
Whether you’re considering public, charter, or private schools, St. Paul has something to offer every young family. Connect with Sean Grady today to learn more about the best neighborhoods and schools in St. Paul, and let him guide you through finding your perfect home in a community that supports your child’s education and growth.
Sean Grady
