As of the 2025-2026 school year, New York City operates approximately 1,800 public schools. This makes the NYC Department of Education the largest school system in the United States. These schools serve over one million students across five boroughs.
Overall Number of Public Schools in NYC
The exact number changes slightly each year due to openings, closures, and consolidations. For the current school year, the NYC Department of Education reports 1,834 public schools. This includes district schools, charter schools, and specialized programs.
These schools are spread across Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island. Brooklyn has the highest number of schools, followed by Queens.
Breakdown by School Type
NYC public schools are not all the same. They fall into several categories, each serving different student needs.
District Schools
District schools are the traditional neighborhood schools. There are about 1,100 elementary, middle, and high schools in this category. These are zoned by address, meaning your home location determines your assigned school.
Charter Schools
Charter schools are publicly funded but operate independently. NYC currently has about 260 charter schools. They are free to attend and are open to all students, often using a lottery system for admission.
Specialized High Schools
New York City has nine specialized high schools, such as Stuyvesant and Bronx Science. Admission is based on the Specialized High Schools Admissions Test (SHSAT) or an audition. These schools are among the most competitive in the city.
Alternative Programs and District 75
District 75 serves students with significant disabilities. It includes over 60 programs across the city. There are also alternative schools for students who need a non-traditional learning environment.
Number of Schools by Borough
Here is a breakdown of public school counts by borough for the 2025-2026 school year.
| Borough | Approximate Number of Schools | Percentage of Total |
|---|---|---|
| Brooklyn | 550 | 30% |
| Queens | 460 | 25% |
| Manhattan | 380 | 21% |
| The Bronx | 330 | 18% |
| Staten Island | 114 | 6% |
These numbers include all public school types. Brooklyn has the most schools because it has the largest population of school-age children.
How to Find Your Zoned School
If you live in NYC, your child is guaranteed a seat at your zoned school. Here are steps to find it.
- Visit the NYC Department of Education website and use the school finder tool.
- Enter your home address to see your zoned elementary, middle, and high school.
- Check the school’s website for open house dates and tour information.
- If you are not satisfied with your zoned school, you can apply to other schools through the admissions process.
Many families also apply to charter schools or specialized programs. Deadlines for applications typically fall in the winter or early spring.
Enrollment Numbers and Class Sizes
NYC public schools serve about 1.1 million students. Average class size varies by grade and school type. Elementary school classes average around 25 students. High school classes can be smaller, especially in advanced courses.
Class size is an important factor to consider when choosing a school. Smaller classes often mean more individual attention. You can find class size data on each school’s NYC DOE report card.
Recent Changes and Trends
In the past few years, NYC has opened new schools in growing neighborhoods. It has also closed some under-enrolled schools. The focus has been on creating more pre-kindergarten seats and expanding dual-language programs.
As of July 2026, several new elementary schools are planned for areas like Long Island City and Downtown Brooklyn. Families should check the DOE website for updates on new school openings.
Practical Tips for Parents
Start researching schools early. The kindergarten application process opens in the fall for the following school year. Tour multiple schools to get a feel for their environment. Ask about after-school programs, special education services, and parent involvement opportunities.
Remember that your zoned school is not your only option. You can apply to up to 12 schools on your application. Use the school diversity and performance data available online to make informed choices.
In summary, New York City has about 1,800 public schools, with the exact number close to 1,834 for the 2025-2026 school year. These schools are divided by borough, type, and program. Understanding the structure of the system will help you find the best fit for your child.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many public schools are there in NYC right now?
As of the 2025-2026 school year, New York City has approximately 1,834 public schools, including district, charter, and specialized schools.
Which borough has the most public schools?
Brooklyn has the most public schools, with about 550, followed by Queens with around 460.
How many charter schools are in NYC?
There are about 260 charter schools operating in New York City during the 2025-2026 school year.
How do I find my zoned public school in NYC?
You can use the NYC Department of Education’s school finder tool on their website by entering your home address to see your zoned school.
Are all NYC public schools free?
Yes, all public schools in New York City are free to attend, including charter schools and specialized high schools.
