As of the 2025–2026 school year, there are approximately 1,800 public schools in New York City. This number includes traditional district schools, charter schools, and specialized programs serving over 1 million students across the five boroughs. The New York City Department of Education (NYCDOE) operates the largest public school system in the United States.
Understanding the scale of this system can help parents, educators, and policymakers navigate school choices, resource allocation, and enrollment trends. Below, we break down the numbers by borough, school type, and grade level.
Public School Count by Borough
New York City’s public schools are distributed unevenly across its five boroughs, reflecting population density and historical development. As of July 2026, here is the approximate number of public schools in each borough:
| Borough | Approximate Number of Public Schools | Share of Total |
|---|---|---|
| Brooklyn | 550 | 31% |
| Queens | 450 | 25% |
| Manhattan | 380 | 21% |
| Bronx | 320 | 18% |
| Staten Island | 100 | 6% |
Brooklyn has the most public schools, reflecting its large student population. Staten Island has the fewest, consistent with its smaller population and lower density.
Types of Public Schools in NYC
New York City offers several categories of public schools, each with unique governance and admissions processes. Here are the main types:
- District Schools: Traditional neighborhood schools that serve students based on geographic zones. These make up the majority of public schools.
- Charter Schools: Publicly funded but independently operated schools. There are over 260 charter schools in NYC as of 2026.
- Specialized High Schools: Selective schools like Stuyvesant High School and Brooklyn Technical High School that require an entrance exam (SHSAT).
- Alternative Schools and Programs: Includes transfer schools, special education schools, and programs for students with specific needs.
Breakdown by Grade Level
Public schools in NYC serve students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. Many schools combine multiple grade levels into a single building. Here is a general breakdown of school types by grade:
Elementary Schools (K–5)
There are over 700 elementary schools in NYC, making them the most common type. Most are neighborhood district schools, though some are charter or magnet programs.
Middle Schools (Grades 6–8)
Around 400 middle schools operate across the city. Many are part of K–8 or 6–12 campuses. Middle school admissions often involve a lottery or application process in certain districts.
High Schools (Grades 9–12)
NYC has approximately 500 high schools, including specialized, charter, and transfer options. High school admissions are centralized through the NYCDOE’s application system.
Pre-K and Early Childhood Centers
There are also over 200 standalone pre-K centers and early childhood programs, many housed within elementary schools. Universal pre-K is available for all 4-year-olds.
How Many Students Attend NYC Public Schools?
Enrollment in NYC public schools has fluctuated in recent years. As of the 2025–2026 school year, total enrollment is approximately 1.1 million students. This number has declined slightly from a peak of 1.14 million in 2020 due to demographic shifts and charter school growth. The average student-to-teacher ratio across the system is about 13:1.
How to Find a Public School in NYC
Parents looking for a specific school can use the NYCDOE’s online school search tool. Here are some actionable tips:
- Start early: School admissions deadlines for kindergarten and high school usually fall between October and December of the prior year.
- Visit schools: Most schools hold open houses in the fall. Attending can give you a sense of the school culture.
- Check performance data: The NYCDOE publishes annual school quality reports with metrics like test scores, attendance, and student progress.
- Consider location: Many district schools prioritize students who live within a certain geographic zone.
Recent Trends in NYC Public School Numbers
The number of public schools in NYC has remained relatively stable over the past decade, though charter schools have grown. Between 2015 and 2025, the city added about 50 new charter schools while closing a smaller number of under-enrolled district schools. The overall total has stayed near the 1,800 mark. Budget constraints and shifting enrollment patterns could lead to more closures or consolidations in the coming years.
In summary, New York City has roughly 1,800 public schools serving over 1 million students across five boroughs. The system includes a wide variety of school types and grade configurations, giving families many options. Whether you are a new parent or a long-time resident, understanding the landscape of NYC public schools is the first step to finding the right fit for your child.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many public schools are there in New York City in 2026?
As of July 2026, there are approximately 1,800 public schools in New York City, including district schools, charter schools, and specialized programs.
Which NYC borough has the most public schools?
Brooklyn has the most public schools, with about 550, followed by Queens with 450 and Manhattan with 380.
How many charter schools are in New York City?
There are over 260 charter schools operating in New York City as of the 2025–2026 school year.
How many students attend NYC public schools?
Approximately 1.1 million students are enrolled in New York City public schools as of the 2025–2026 school year.
How can I find a public school near me in NYC?
You can use the New York City Department of Education’s online school search tool to find schools by address, grade level, or program type.
