For families living in or relocating to Dallas, access to top-tier private schools is often a major factor in choosing a neighborhood. Dallas is home to some of the most respected independent schools in Texas, known for strong college placement and well-rounded student development.
Below are five of the most sought-after private schools near a couple of our favorite neighborhoods, Preston Hollow and Highland Park, each offering a strong educational experience.
1. St. Mark’s School of Texas
St. Mark’s School of Texas is widely regarded as one of the premier all-boys schools in the state. Serving boys from Pre-K through 12th grade, the school is known for its rigorous college preparatory curriculum and strong emphasis on leadership, character, and critical thinking.
Located just north of Preston Hollow along Preston Road, St. Mark’s attracts families who value academic intensity paired with a supportive learning environment. Graduates routinely attend top universities across the country, and the school’s programs in science, math, and humanities are particularly strong.
St. Mark’s School of Texas: 2025-2026 Tuition:
| Grade | Tuition |
| Grades 1 – 2 | $32,537 |
| 3rd Grade | $32,628 |
| 4th Grade | $33,007 |
| 5th Grade | $36,425 |
| 6th Grade | $36,345 |
| Grades 7 – 8 | $38,444 |
| 9th Grade | $41,554 |
| Grades 10 – 11 | $38,995 |
| 12th Grade | $40,735 |
See all tuition details here.
2. The Hockaday School
The Hockaday School is a nationally-recognized independent school for girls, offering education from Pre-K through 12th grade. Its mission centers on academic excellence, leadership development, and preparing young women for success at the highest levels.
Situated a short drive from both Preston Hollow and Highland Park, Hockaday is known for its challenging curriculum, extensive arts programs, and competitive athletic programs. The campus environment encourages intellectual curiosity while fostering confidence and independence in students.
The Hockaday School: 2025-2026 Tuition
| Grade | Tuition |
| Lower School (PK – Grade 4) | $33,300 |
| Middle and Upper School (Grades 5 – Form IV) | $39,510 |
See all tuition details here.
3. The Episcopal School of Dallas
The Episcopal School of Dallas (ESD) offers a coeducational experience from Pre-K through 12th grade. The school focuses on balancing academic rigor with character education, community involvement, and spiritual development.
ESD’s location makes it especially convenient for Preston Hollow families, and its broad curriculum allows students to explore academics, fine arts, athletics, and service learning. Many families are drawn to the school’s inclusive culture and emphasis on developing the whole student.
The Episcopal School of Dallas: 2025-2026 Tuition
| Grade | Tuition |
| Early Childhood (Beginner, Pre-K, Kindergarten, Primer) | $33,500 |
| Grades 1 – 4 | $34,000 |
| Grades 5 – 8 | $40,600 |
| Grades 9 – 12 | $40,600 |
See all tuition details here.
4. Ursuline Academy of Dallas
Ursuline Academy is one of the oldest private schools in Texas and remains a cornerstone of girls’ education in Dallas. Serving grades 9 through 12, this Catholic college preparatory school combines strong academics with faith-based values and leadership opportunities.
Located near Preston Hollow, Ursuline is well known for its college counseling program and commitment to academic achievement. Students benefit from small class sizes, advanced coursework, and a strong sense of community rooted in service and personal growth.
Ursuline Academy of Dallas: 2025-2026 Tuition
See all tuition details here.
5. Alcuin School
Alcuin School offers a distinctive educational path through its Montessori foundation and International Baccalaureate programs. Serving students from early childhood through 12th grade, Alcuin emphasizes inquiry-based learning, independence, and global awareness.
With a campus near North Dallas and convenient access from Preston Hollow, Alcuin appeals to families seeking a progressive approach to education while maintaining high academic standards. Its graduates are well prepared for both college and an increasingly interconnected world.
Alcuin School: 2025-2026 Tuition
See all tuition details here.
Laying Down Roots in Dallas
These private schools continue to attract families looking for an exceptional educational experience. If you’re looking to lay down roots in Dallas, the team at Nixon Custom Homes would like to extend a warm welcome to you and your family.
With decades of experience crafting luxury homes in Dallas’s most desirable neighborhoods, Nixon Custom Homes helps clients find their flow in Dallas & build the home of their dreams.
As an award-winning builder, we deliver exceptional home construction that lasts. Schedule a consultation today to get started.
Why Choose Nixon Custom Homes?
Nixon Custom Homes is a second-generation builder with a reputation for integrity, craftsmanship, and client-focused service. President of the company, Austin Nixon, oversees day-to-day operations and collaborates directly with leading architects and designers throughout the Dallas area. His background in business management and construction, combined with his Certified Graduate Builder designation, ensures that each project runs efficiently and meets our high standards.
We specialize in high-performance building, an approach that considers the home as a complete system. Our team uses advanced modeling to understand how heat, air, and moisture move through the structure. This results in homes that are more energy-efficient, durable, and comfortable than those built using conventional methods.
“As an architect, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with Austin and his team on several projects throughout the DFW area, including in Highland Park and on Swiss Avenue in Dallas. His expertise is exceptional, and his past work speaks for itself. He takes the time to truly listen and understand the vision and goals of each project, delivering outstanding and timeless results. I look forward to working with him again and highly recommend him as the builder for your new home.” — Kamil Miskowiec, Rendertecture
