Top 10 Boarding Schools In Boston And Fees (2026)

Parents and guardians from across the U.S. and the world choose Boston boarding schools for their tradition of excellence, diverse student communities, and proximity to the city’s cultural riches. However, tuition is an important factor to weigh when considering enrollment. Boarding school fees in Boston typically range between $65,000 and $69,000 per year, but the return on investment is often significant—measured in personal growth, networking opportunities, and excellent college placement records.

In this article, we’ll explore the Top 10 Boarding Schools in Boston and their fees, highlighting what makes each school unique and why families continue to prioritize Boston as a destination for elite secondary education.

Top 10 Boarding Schools In Boston And Their Fees

1. Phillips Academy Andover

Phillips Academy Andover, founded in 1778, is one of the oldest and most prestigious boarding schools in the United States. Located just outside Boston, Andover is synonymous with academic excellence and innovation. The school’s alumni include U.S. presidents, Fortune 500 CEOs, and cultural leaders, underscoring its reputation for producing future changemakers.

Andover’s academic program is renowned for its breadth and flexibility. Students can choose from more than 300 courses, including Advanced Placement and specialized electives in fields such as biotechnology, global studies, and computer science. The school’s strong humanities program is balanced with state-of-the-art facilities for STEM, including advanced laboratories and research opportunities in partnership with Boston’s universities.

Boarding life at Andover is equally impressive. Dormitories are equipped with modern amenities, and faculty members live on campus, ensuring strong mentorship and community building. The school also offers extensive extracurricular activities—over 125 clubs ranging from debate and robotics to arts and athletics. Its athletic program includes more than 60 interscholastic teams.

• Annual Fees: Boarding tuition is approximately $66,290 per year.

Families choose Andover for its tradition of excellence, global diversity, and unmatched opportunities that prepare students for Ivy League and top universities.

2. Phillips Exeter Academy

Phillips Exeter Academy, located in Exeter, New Hampshire, is another prestigious boarding school within reach of Boston. Founded in 1781, Exeter is best known for its Harkness method, an interactive teaching style that places students around a large oval table and encourages discussion-based learning. This philosophy cultivates critical thinking, collaboration, and leadership—skills highly valued in higher education and professional careers.

Exeter’s curriculum is vast, offering more than 450 courses across disciplines. From advanced math and science programs to a strong humanities department, students have access to world-class instruction. Exeter is particularly strong in STEM, with advanced laboratories and partnerships that allow students to engage in hands-on research. Its arts program is also outstanding, with facilities for visual arts, theater, and music.

Life at Exeter goes beyond academics. The school supports over 100 student-run clubs and a wide variety of athletic programs, from rowing and squash to basketball and swimming. Boarding facilities are designed to foster independence while providing faculty guidance. Students are encouraged to take ownership of their learning while building strong friendships across diverse backgrounds.

• Annual Fees: Boarding tuition is around $65,750 per year.

Families seeking a collaborative, student-centered learning environment find Exeter an ideal choice, particularly for children who thrive in discussion-driven settings.

3. Milton Academy

Founded in 1798, Milton Academy is one of Boston’s most respected boarding schools, combining academic rigor with a focus on individuality and creativity. Located in Milton, Massachusetts, just minutes from downtown Boston, the school benefits from close ties to the city’s museums, universities, and cultural landmarks.

Milton’s curriculum blends strong college preparatory academics with opportunities for experiential learning. The school offers a range of AP courses, as well as electives in journalism, performing arts, environmental science, and entrepreneurship. Its faculty-to-student ratio ensures personalized attention and mentorship. Milton also emphasizes diversity and inclusion, encouraging students to engage with global perspectives.

Boarding life at Milton Academy is dynamic and community-oriented. Students live in dormitories that promote strong relationships between peers and faculty. The school’s extracurricular scene is rich, with more than 100 student clubs, athletic teams, and arts programs. Milton is particularly strong in theater and visual arts, regularly hosting productions and exhibitions.

Athletics are a significant part of Milton’s culture, offering both competitive and recreational options across 15 sports. The school encourages students to balance academics with personal wellness and physical activity.

• Annual Fees: Boarding tuition is about $67,820 per year.

Families drawn to Milton Academy value its balance between academic intensity and creative exploration, along with its prime location near Boston’s cultural centers.

4. The Cambridge School of Weston

The Cambridge School of Weston (CSW) stands out among Boston’s boarding schools for its progressive approach to education. Founded in 1886, CSW is known for its modular schedule, where courses run in intensive six-week blocks rather than traditional semesters. This model allows students to dive deeply into subjects and explore areas of personal interest.

Academically, CSW offers a robust curriculum with a strong emphasis on creativity, social justice, and innovation. Students can pursue unique electives such as environmental ethics, film production, and contemporary social issues. The arts are a cornerstone of the CSW experience, with specialized facilities for theater, music, photography, and visual design.

Boarding life at CSW is designed to foster inclusivity and community. Dormitories provide a small, supportive environment where faculty serve as mentors and advisors. Extracurricular opportunities are abundant, including student government, social activism groups, and athletics.

Because of its emphasis on individual growth and progressive learning, CSW attracts students who thrive in less traditional educational settings. The school is also a hub for creative talent, making it especially appealing to aspiring artists, writers, and thinkers.

• Annual Fees: Boarding tuition is approximately $68,700 per year.

Families seeking an innovative and student-driven educational experience will find CSW an excellent fit.

5. Concord Academy

Concord Academy, founded in 1922, is a prestigious boarding school located in Concord, Massachusetts, just a short distance from Boston. Known for its inclusive community and dedication to academic excellence, Concord Academy has built a reputation for nurturing both intellectual curiosity and creativity.

Academically, Concord Academy offers a diverse curriculum with over 200 courses, including strong programs in humanities, mathematics, and science. The school does not rank students or emphasize grades but instead promotes mastery and personal growth. The arts program is particularly noteworthy, with opportunities in theater, dance, music, and visual arts.

Boarding life at Concord Academy is intentionally small and close-knit, fostering meaningful connections between students and faculty. The dormitories are designed to create an intimate community where collaboration and support are emphasized. Extracurricular activities include over 70 student clubs, leadership programs, and community service initiatives.

Concord also places a strong emphasis on sustainability and social responsibility, incorporating environmental consciousness into its academic and extracurricular life. Its alumni network includes notable writers, artists, and entrepreneurs who reflect the school’s focus on creativity and impact.

• Annual Fees: Tuition for boarders is about $68,840 per year.

Families choose Concord Academy for its inclusive environment, strong arts program, and student-centered approach to education.

6. Dana Hall School

Dana Hall School, founded in 1881, is an all-girls boarding school located in Wellesley, Massachusetts, near Boston. It is dedicated to empowering young women through academic excellence, leadership development, and extracurricular opportunities.

Academically, Dana Hall offers a rigorous curriculum with Advanced Placement courses, honors programs, and electives in arts, humanities, and sciences. The school is particularly recognized for its STEM programs for girls, encouraging students to pursue careers in traditionally male-dominated fields. Dana Hall also provides strong programs in literature, performing arts, and social sciences.

One of Dana Hall’s unique features is its equestrian program, which attracts students from around the world. The program includes riding facilities, stables, and competitions, making it a top choice for equestrian enthusiasts.

Boarding life at Dana Hall is supportive and community-focused, with faculty living on campus and providing mentorship. Dormitories are designed to feel like a home away from home, offering safe and nurturing environments. Extracurricular activities include athletics, arts, clubs, and global service initiatives.

• Annual Fees: Boarding tuition stands at $66,800 per year.

Dana Hall is best suited for families who want a female-centered education that emphasizes leadership, independence, and academic success.

7. Cushing Academy

Founded in 1865, Cushing Academy is located in Ashburnham, Massachusetts, within reach of Boston. It is known as the “Pioneer of Co-Ed Boarding Schools” and has built a strong reputation for combining academics with athletics and arts.

Cushing’s academic program is student-centered, offering a wide range of Advanced Placement courses and electives. Its Global Online Academy partnership provides students with opportunities to take courses beyond the traditional curriculum, including computer programming, international politics, and global business.

Athletics are a cornerstone of Cushing Academy, particularly its hockey and basketball programs, which have produced numerous professional athletes. In addition, Cushing offers over 20 varsity sports and strong recreational programs.

The arts are also central to the Cushing experience, with facilities for theater, music, film, and fine arts. Boarding life is designed to be inclusive, with dormitories fostering supportive communities where students develop friendships across diverse backgrounds.

• Annual Fees: Around $66,850 per year.

Families looking for a balance of academics, athletics, and arts often choose Cushing Academy as a comprehensive option for their children.

8. The Governor’s Academy

Established in 1763, The Governor’s Academy is the oldest continuously operating boarding school in the United States. Located in Byfield, Massachusetts, about 30 miles north of Boston, the school blends historic tradition with innovative education.

Academically, Governor’s Academy offers a strong college-preparatory program, with Advanced Placement and honors courses across subjects. The school emphasizes critical thinking, writing, and communication skills, preparing students for success in college and beyond. It also provides leadership programs, service learning, and global studies opportunities.

Boarding life at Governor’s is deeply rooted in tradition, with dormitories creating strong bonds among students and faculty. Athletics are an important part of campus life, with 30 interscholastic teams and recreational programs. The arts program is equally vibrant, offering theater productions, music ensembles, and visual arts exhibitions.

• Annual Fees: Boarding tuition is about $66,750 per year.

Families who value heritage, community, and academic rigor will find Governor’s Academy a compelling option.

9. St. Mark’s School

Founded in 1865, St. Mark’s School is located in Southborough, Massachusetts, near Boston. The school has a reputation for preparing students for admission into Ivy League and top-tier universities.

Academically, St. Mark’s offers a challenging curriculum with Advanced Placement courses, electives in STEM and humanities, and a strong emphasis on global studies. The school also encourages independent research projects, allowing students to explore their intellectual passions in depth.

The arts and athletics programs at St. Mark’s are robust. Students participate in visual arts, theater, and music while competing in sports such as lacrosse, basketball, and soccer. Boarding life is structured to foster independence and responsibility while maintaining strong support from faculty advisors.

• Annual Fees: Boarding tuition is around $67,400 per year.

Families who value a rigorous academic experience with excellent college outcomes often place St. Mark’s at the top of their list.

10. Lawrence Academy

Founded in 1793, Lawrence Academy is located in Groton, Massachusetts, not far from Boston. The school emphasizes personalized education, allowing students to shape their academic paths based on interests and strengths.

Academically, Lawrence offers AP courses alongside independent study opportunities and experiential learning. The school’s Winterim program is a standout feature, offering two weeks each year for students to pursue unique projects, internships, and travel experiences.

Boarding life at Lawrence Academy is supportive and community-oriented. Dormitories are staffed with faculty who provide guidance and mentorship, creating a safe and nurturing environment. Extracurricular opportunities include athletics, arts, clubs, and service learning.

• Annual Fees: Boarding tuition is approximately $66,970 per year.

Families seeking a flexible and student-driven educational experience find Lawrence Academy to be an excellent fit.

Why Choose a Boarding School in Boston?

Boston boarding schools stand out because of:

• Academic Excellence: Strong college-prep curricula with impressive university placement records.

• Cultural Exposure: Access to Boston’s museums, universities, and historic landmarks.

• Diverse Community: Students come from across the U.S. and around the globe.

• Holistic Growth: Athletics, arts, and leadership development complement classroom learning.

Conclusion

Boston and its surrounding areas offer some of the finest boarding schools in the United States. While fees typically range between $65,000 and $69,000 annually, the value lies in the unparalleled education, supportive communities, and pathways to world-class universities.

Whether your family is drawn to the historic legacy of Phillips Academy Andover, the innovative style of Cambridge School of Weston, or the female-focused empowerment of Dana Hall, Boston has a school that can match your child’s strengths and aspirations.

Choosing the right school is an investment in your child’s future, and with Boston’s rich landscape of boarding institutions, the opportunities are endless