Top 20 Boarding Schools In California And Fees (2026)

In this guide, we highlight the top 20 boarding schools in California and their fees, helping families make informed decisions.

Top 20 Boarding Schools In California And Their Fees

1. Cate School (Carpinteria, CA)

Cate School is a prestigious boarding school located near Santa Barbara, overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Known for its rigorous college preparatory curriculum, Cate emphasizes intellectual curiosity, character development, and leadership. Students benefit from small class sizes, a strong advisory program, and personalized academic support. The school offers a broad range of Advanced Placement (AP) courses, fine arts, and athletic programs, ensuring a holistic student experience. Beyond academics, Cate encourages community engagement and environmental stewardship, often leveraging its coastal location for marine studies and outdoor activities.

• Annual Boarding Fees: Around $70,000

2. The Thacher School (Ojai, CA)

Founded in 1889, The Thacher School is one of California’s most renowned boarding schools. It blends rigorous academics with unique programs such as horse riding, camping, and outdoor education, fostering resilience and responsibility. Thacher students are encouraged to embrace intellectual challenges while developing independence and character. The school maintains small class sizes and offers AP courses alongside a rich arts and athletics program. Its outdoor emphasis, including extended camping trips, helps students develop leadership and problem-solving skills. Graduates frequently gain admission into Ivy League and other top-tier universities.

• Annual Boarding Fees: Approximately $72,000

3. Dunn School (Los Olivos, CA)

Dunn School emphasizes academic innovation, personal growth, and community engagement. Its unique Design Thinking Program fosters creativity, problem-solving, and entrepreneurship among students. Dunn offers both AP courses and a strong advisory system to guide student success. The campus features excellent facilities, including science labs, athletic fields, and arts studios. With a student-to-teacher ratio of about 6:1, individualized attention is a cornerstone of the Dunn experience. Boarding students enjoy a safe, supportive environment that prepares them for both college and life beyond.

• Annual Boarding Fees: About $67,000

4. Midland School (Los Olivos, CA)

Midland School is known for its strong emphasis on sustainability and environmental education. Located on a 2,860-acre ranch, students live in a close-knit community where self-reliance, responsibility, and respect for nature are core values. The school combines challenging academics with hands-on experiences, such as working on campus farms, building projects, and environmental stewardship. Midland graduates are well-prepared for college, with many pursuing environmental sciences, liberal arts, and leadership roles. Its small enrollment ensures a family-like atmosphere where every student is seen and valued.

• Annual Boarding Fees: Roughly $59,500

5. Villanova Preparatory School (Ojai, CA)

Villanova Preparatory School, a Catholic boarding school, offers a globally-minded education rooted in Augustinian values. The school provides a college preparatory curriculum enriched by the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. With a focus on service, leadership, and faith, Villanova nurtures students’ spiritual as well as academic growth. Boarding students from various countries contribute to a diverse and multicultural environment. Villanova balances rigorous academics with extracurricular opportunities, including athletics, music, and service-learning projects. The safe campus and personalized faculty support make it a trusted option for families seeking holistic education.

• Annual Boarding Fees: Around $65,000

6. Santa Catalina School (Monterey, CA)

Santa Catalina is an independent Catholic boarding school for girls, offering a college preparatory curriculum in a supportive environment. With an emphasis on leadership, academics, and faith, Santa Catalina develops confident young women ready for higher education and beyond. Its curriculum includes honors and AP courses, fine arts, and athletics. Students also engage in community service and spiritual development programs. The school’s location in Monterey provides access to cultural and natural resources, including marine science opportunities. Santa Catalina graduates are well-prepared to attend prestigious colleges nationwide.

• Annual Boarding Fees: Approximately $64,000

7. Idyllwild Arts Academy (Idyllwild, CA)

Idyllwild Arts Academy is a premier arts-focused boarding school, attracting students worldwide who are passionate about music, dance, theater, visual arts, and creative writing. While fostering artistic excellence, the school also offers a strong college preparatory academic program. Its faculty includes accomplished artists and educators who guide students in honing their craft while balancing academics. The mountain campus provides a serene, inspiring environment. Graduates often attend top conservatories, art schools, and universities. Idyllwild Arts is ideal for students aiming to pursue creative careers.

• Annual Boarding Fees: Around $66,000

8. Army and Navy Academy (Carlsbad, CA)

This all-boys boarding school combines military-style discipline with a college preparatory curriculum. Army and Navy Academy emphasizes leadership, structure, and academic achievement. Students benefit from small classes, individualized learning plans, and access to AP courses. The academy also offers extensive athletics, leadership training, and character-building activities. Its military framework instills resilience, respect, and responsibility in cadets, preparing them for future challenges. Graduates attend universities across the nation, with some pursuing military careers. The coastal location in Carlsbad enhances campus life.

• Annual Boarding Fees: About $56,000

9. Woodside Priory School (Portola Valley, CA)

Woodside Priory is a Benedictine Catholic boarding school emphasizing academic excellence, spirituality, and community. Its curriculum features honors and AP classes, as well as opportunities in fine arts, athletics, and service programs. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 7:1, students receive personalized attention. The school’s supportive environment nurtures intellectual growth and ethical development. Its proximity to Silicon Valley provides students with unique opportunities in innovation and technology. Graduates often gain admission to top universities, including Stanford, UC Berkeley, and other elite institutions.

• Annual Boarding Fees: Approximately $68,000

10. Stevenson School (Pebble Beach, CA)

Stevenson School is a coeducational boarding school offering a challenging academic program in an inspiring coastal setting. The curriculum emphasizes inquiry-based learning, global awareness, and personal growth. Stevenson students can choose from a wide range of AP courses, arts programs, and athletics. The school’s leadership and service-learning initiatives prepare students for college and beyond. With access to Monterey Bay’s cultural and environmental resources, Stevenson integrates outdoor education and experiential learning into its curriculum. The alumni network is strong and supportive, aiding graduates in higher education pathways.

• Annual Boarding Fees: Around $72,000

11. Webb Schools (Claremont, CA)

The Webb Schools are two single-gender institutions (Vivian Webb for girls and Webb School of California for boys) sharing a unified campus. Webb is known for its rigorous academics, strong arts programs, and emphasis on character development. Unique to Webb is its on-campus Alf Museum of Paleontology, where students can participate in real research projects. The school also integrates outdoor education, athletics, and leadership training into student life. With highly qualified faculty and a tradition of excellence, Webb consistently prepares students for top universities.

• Annual Boarding Fees: Approximately $71,000

12. Oak Grove School (Ojai, CA)

Founded by philosopher Jiddu Krishnamurti, Oak Grove School emphasizes holistic education, mindfulness, and creativity. Its curriculum balances academic rigor with self-awareness, outdoor education, and the arts. The school fosters critical thinking, compassion, and global awareness. Boarding students enjoy a serene environment that encourages self-discovery and community living. Oak Grove’s approach appeals to families seeking alternative, progressive education focused on intellectual and personal growth rather than traditional competitiveness. Graduates often excel in liberal arts, social sciences, and creative disciplines.

• Annual Boarding Fees: About $62,000

13. Besant Hill School (Ojai, CA)

Besant Hill School offers a unique educational philosophy emphasizing “Areté”—a commitment to excellence in academics, arts, athletics, and character. With small class sizes, students receive personalized support from dedicated faculty. The curriculum includes AP courses, experiential learning opportunities, and a strong arts program. Boarding life at Besant Hill fosters independence, responsibility, and collaboration among students. Outdoor education and sustainability are also key components of student life. The diverse, international community makes it a nurturing environment for both personal and academic growth.

• Annual Boarding Fees: Approximately $65,000

14. Chadwick School (Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA)

Chadwick School is an independent K–12 school with a strong college preparatory program. Its boarding division offers students a global, multicultural experience. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and leadership. Students participate in rigorous academics, athletics, arts, and service learning. Chadwick is also well-known for its outdoor education and international exchange programs. With highly qualified faculty and small class sizes, the school ensures that students are prepared for success in top universities worldwide.

• Annual Boarding Fees: Around $70,000

15. Justin-Siena High School (Napa, CA)

Justin-Siena is a Catholic boarding and day school known for its academic excellence and strong values-based education. Located in Napa Valley, it provides a safe and nurturing environment where students thrive academically, spiritually, and socially. The curriculum includes honors and AP courses, fine arts, and athletic programs. Boarding students benefit from a supportive residential community that emphasizes leadership and service. The school’s Catholic foundation fosters moral development alongside college preparation.

• Annual Boarding Fees: Roughly $61,000

16. Sacred Heart Preparatory (Atherton, CA)

Sacred Heart Preparatory combines a rigorous academic program with Catholic values, preparing students for success in higher education and life. The curriculum emphasizes honors, AP courses, arts, athletics, and service learning. Boarding students are immersed in a faith-based environment that promotes compassion, leadership, and responsibility. Located in Silicon Valley, the school offers students exposure to innovation and technological opportunities. Its graduates regularly gain admission to top colleges across the country.

• Annual Boarding Fees: About $69,000

17. Fountain Valley School (Oxnard, CA)

Fountain Valley School emphasizes academic rigor, athletics, and student leadership. With small classes and a supportive environment, students receive personalized guidance in pursuing their academic goals. The school offers a range of AP courses, experiential learning opportunities, and community service programs. Boarding students benefit from a structured yet nurturing environment that fosters independence. Its coastal location provides opportunities for outdoor education and cultural enrichment.

• Annual Boarding Fees: Approximately $60,000

18. Sierra Canyon School (Chatsworth, CA)

Sierra Canyon School combines strong academics with outstanding arts and athletic programs. The school is known for nurturing creativity, intellectual curiosity, and leadership. Boarding students benefit from personalized academic support, extracurricular opportunities, and a safe residential environment. With a diverse student population, Sierra Canyon fosters inclusivity and global awareness. Its proximity to Los Angeles provides unique access to cultural institutions, internships, and arts opportunities.

• Annual Boarding Fees: Around $70,000

19. Oakwood School (North Hollywood, CA)

Oakwood School is a progressive, independent school that fosters creativity, critical thinking, and global citizenship. Its boarding program supports students in a collaborative, innovative environment. The curriculum emphasizes arts, humanities, and social responsibility, alongside rigorous academics. Oakwood provides extensive extracurricular opportunities, from performing arts to athletics. Its location in Los Angeles allows students to engage with cultural, artistic, and professional opportunities beyond the classroom. Graduates are well-prepared for success in diverse career paths.

• Annual Boarding Fees: Approximately $68,000

20. La Jolla Country Day School (La Jolla, CA)

La Jolla Country Day School offers a challenging college preparatory curriculum with a strong emphasis on arts, sciences, and leadership. Its boarding program attracts students from across the globe, creating a diverse and dynamic community. The curriculum features honors and AP courses, alongside athletics and arts opportunities. Students benefit from individualized college counseling and leadership training. Located in the coastal city of La Jolla, the school provides access to world-class universities and cultural resources.

• Annual Boarding Fees: About $71,000

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Conclusion

Choosing the right boarding school in California involves weighing factors like academics, extracurriculars, values, and fees. Schools such as Cate, Thacher, and Webb offer rigorous college preparation, while institutions like Idyllwild Arts focus on specialized programs. From Catholic faith-based schools to progressive education models, California offers something for every student. With fees ranging between $56,000 and $72,000 per year, these institutions represent a significant investment, but one that opens doors to exceptional academic and personal growth opportunities