As of the 2025–2026 school year, there are approximately 66,800 public elementary schools in the United States. When private and charter elementary institutions are included, the total number rises to over 87,000 schools serving children from kindergarten through fifth or sixth grade. This article breaks down the data by school type, region, and enrollment trends so you can understand the landscape of elementary education in America today.
How the total count breaks down by school type
Public elementary schools make up the largest share of elementary institutions. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), there are roughly 66,800 public elementary schools in the U.S. as of 2026. Private elementary schools add another 18,500 to that total, while charter elementary schools account for about 2,100 additional campuses.
Public elementary schools
Public schools are funded by local, state, and federal tax dollars. They must follow state curriculum standards and accept all students within their district boundaries. Most public elementary schools serve grades K–5 or K–6.
Private elementary schools
Private schools charge tuition and are not required to follow state standards, though many choose to do so. They often have smaller class sizes and may offer religious or specialized instruction. The number of private elementary schools has remained steady over the past five years.
Charter elementary schools
Charter schools are publicly funded but independently run. They can offer alternative teaching methods or themes, such as STEM or Montessori. The number of charter elementary schools has grown by about 8% since 2020.
Regional differences in elementary school numbers
The distribution of elementary schools varies widely across the country. The South has the highest number of elementary schools, followed by the Midwest, the West, and the Northeast. This pattern reflects population density and historical settlement.
| Region | Public Elementary Schools | Private & Charter Elementary Schools | Total Elementary Schools |
|---|---|---|---|
| South | 24,100 | 7,500 | 31,600 |
| Midwest | 17,300 | 5,200 | 22,500 |
| West | 15,800 | 4,900 | 20,700 |
| Northeast | 9,600 | 2,900 | 12,500 |
California, Texas, and Florida have the most elementary schools of any states. In contrast, Vermont, Wyoming, and Alaska have the fewest due to smaller populations.
Enrollment trends affecting elementary schools
Elementary school enrollment in the U.S. has been slowly declining over the past decade. In 2025–2026, total public elementary enrollment is around 23.5 million students, down from 24.1 million in 2019. This drop is partly due to lower birth rates and partly due to increased homeschooling and private school enrollment after the pandemic.
What this means for families
Lower enrollment can lead to school closures in some districts, but it can also mean smaller class sizes and more individual attention. If you are moving to a new area, check the local school district’s enrollment projections to see if your child’s school might be at risk of consolidation.
Teacher staffing in elementary schools
There are about 1.5 million elementary school teachers in the United States. The average student-to-teacher ratio in public elementary schools is 16:1, though this varies by state and district. Teacher shortages remain a challenge in rural areas and in subjects like special education and English as a second language.
Actionable tip for parents
If you are concerned about teacher quality, ask your school about teacher retention rates and professional development opportunities. Schools with strong support for teachers often provide a better learning environment for students.
How to find the right elementary school for your child
With so many elementary schools across the country, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. Here are some practical steps you can take:
- Check your state’s department of education website for school report cards and performance data.
- Visit the school in person during a regular school day to observe classrooms and talk to the principal.
- Ask about class size, teacher qualifications, and the school’s approach to discipline and social-emotional learning.
- Talk to other parents in the neighborhood or online parent groups for honest feedback.
- Consider the school’s location and how it fits with your family’s daily schedule and transportation options.
Remember that the best school for your child may not be the one with the highest test scores. Look for a school where your child feels safe, supported, and challenged.
Summary of key facts about U.S. elementary schools
To recap: there are approximately 66,800 public elementary schools and over 87,000 total elementary schools in the United States as of July 2026. Enrollment is around 23.5 million students, and the average class size is about 16 students per teacher. These numbers shift slowly over time due to population changes and educational policy decisions. Whether you are a parent, educator, or researcher, this data gives you a solid foundation for understanding elementary education in America.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many elementary schools are in the United States in 2026?
There are approximately 66,800 public elementary schools and over 87,000 total elementary schools when private and charter schools are included.
Which state has the most elementary schools?
California has the most elementary schools of any state, followed by Texas and Florida.
Are elementary school numbers declining?
Yes, the total number of elementary schools has slightly decreased over the past decade due to lower birth rates and shifting enrollment patterns.
How many students attend elementary school in the U.S.?
About 23.5 million students are enrolled in public elementary schools across the country as of the 2025–2026 school year.
What is the average class size in an elementary school?
The average student-to-teacher ratio in public elementary schools is 16:1, though this varies by state and district.
