The best school districts near Dallas consistently include Highland Park ISD, Coppell ISD, Lovejoy ISD, Carroll ISD (Southlake), Frisco ISD, and Plano ISD. These districts frequently rank among the top in Dallas–Fort Worth and Texas due to strong academic performance, graduation rates, college readiness, and community support.

Several of these districts are located in North Dallas and Collin County suburbs, while Dallas ISD itself is recognized for elite magnet and gifted programs within the city.

Which School District Is Ranked the Best Near Dallas?

Highland Park ISD is widely regarded as the top-ranked school district near Dallas. According to Texas Education Agency (TEA) Accountability Ratings, Highland Park ISD earned the highest distinction among 5A and 6A districts statewide in 2025.

The district is known for consistently high test scores, strong funding, small class sizes, and exceptional college placement outcomes. It serves the Town of Highland Park, an independent municipality surrounded by Dallas.

What Are the Top Suburban School Districts in DFW?

Top suburban school districts near Dallas include:

• Coppell Independent School District – Frequently ranked among the best for academics and overall student outcomes
• Lovejoy Independent School District – Highly rated with strong community involvement and academic performance
• Carroll Independent School District – Known statewide for academics, athletics, and leadership programs
• Frisco Independent School District – A fast-growing district recognized for innovation, arts, and athletics
• Plano Independent School District – One of the largest and most established districts in North Texas, often used as a benchmark for quality

These districts consistently perform well in both state accountability ratings and third-party rankings such as Niche and U.S. News & World Report.

Is Dallas ISD a Good School District?

Dallas ISD performs differently than suburban districts but should not be overlooked. While Dallas ISD serves a much larger and more diverse student population, it is nationally recognized for high-performing magnet, gifted, and choice programs.

Notable strengths of Dallas ISD include:
• Top-ranked magnet schools statewide
• Gifted and talented academies
• Strong arts, STEM, and college-prep programs

Schools such as William B. Travis Academy and Sudie L. Williams Talented and Gifted Academy are frequently cited among the best K-8 schools in Texas.

How Do School District Rankings Near Dallas Work?

School district rankings vary depending on the source.

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) uses an A–F accountability system based on standardized testing, student progress, and closing achievement gaps.

Third-party platforms like Niche evaluate districts using academics, parent and student reviews, diversity, college readiness, and extracurricular offerings.

Media outlets may focus on:
• Entire DFW metroplex comparisons
• Only districts within Dallas city limits
• County-based rankings (such as Collin County districts)

Because of this, the “best” district can vary depending on whether academic rigor, diversity, extracurriculars, or specialized programs are prioritized.

Which School District Should You Choose Near Dallas?

For suburban excellence, districts like Highland Park ISD, Coppell ISD, Frisco ISD, Lovejoy ISD, and Carroll ISD are consistently recommended.

For buyers who prefer living within Dallas city limits, exploring Dallas ISD magnet and gifted programs can provide access to top-tier education without relocating to the suburbs.

Choosing the right school district near Dallas depends on lifestyle preferences, housing budget, commute needs, and the type of academic environment desired.