How Texas Public Schools Compare to West Coast Districts
- Nitin Gupta, CRS, REALTOR
- Jun 23
- 3 min read

Relocating from California, Oregon, or Washington? Many West Coast families are surprised to discover that top public schools in Texas rival—and often outperform—their former districts. REALTOR® Nitin Gupta, CRS, GRI, breaks down how North Texas public schools compare in academics, cost, and long-term value.
One of the most common concerns for luxury buyers relocating from the West Coast to Dallas is:“Are the public schools in Texas as good as the ones we’re leaving behind?”
The answer? Often, yes—and in many cases, better. The Dallas-Fort Worth area is home to multiple school districts that are nationally recognized, well-funded, and strategically tied to some of the region’s best luxury neighborhoods.
Nitin Gupta, a relocation-certified REALTOR®, has guided dozens of high-income families through this exact comparison—and helped them make confident, informed decisions about where to live based on school quality.
Key Metrics: Texas vs. West Coast Public Schools
Metric | Texas (Top Suburbs) | California (Top Suburbs) | Washington/Oregon (Top Suburbs) |
Average Student-Teacher Ratio | 15:1 | 24:1 | 20:1 |
AP Course Availability | Extensive (Carroll, Frisco ISD) | Varies by funding | Limited outside select districts |
Average SAT Scores | 1250–1350+ in top districts | 1200–1300+ | 1150–1250 |
School Spending per Pupil | Efficient + Localized | Higher but diluted | Moderate |
Parental Involvement | Very High in North Dallas | Varies | Moderate |
Sources based on district rankings, TEA reports, and local school data.
Top Texas Public School Districts (Relocation Favorites)
Carroll ISD (Southlake)
Nationally ranked
Low student-teacher ratios
Elite sports, arts, and academics
Homes: $1.5M–$5M+
Frisco ISD (Frisco, Prosper)
Fast-growing and well-funded
New facilities, strong STEM and arts programs
Zoned to many master-planned communities
Homes: $800K–$2.5M
Highland Park ISD (University Park/Highland Park)
Consistently among the top 1% nationally
Small, independent district with tight-knit community
Homes: $2M–$6M+
Lovejoy ISD (Fairview/Lucas)
High academic performance
Excellent fine arts, debate, and UIL programs
Homes: $1M–$3M+
Plano ISD (West Plano)
IB programs, gifted and talented tracks
Serves affluent neighborhoods with strong resale value
Homes: $900K–$2.5M
How Do They Compare to the West Coast?
Lower class sizes and higher per-student attention
Newer campuses and technology integration
Less bureaucracy, more local control of education quality
Easy access to gifted programs, STEM tracks, and AP classes
Strong ties to communities that also offer high real estate value retention
How Nitin Gupta Helps Parents Relocating with School-Age Kids
Provides school performance reports, ratings, and local parent insight
Aligns home searches with zoned school districts and academic calendars
Advises on private vs. public school pros and cons
Coordinates with families needing accelerated move-ins for school start dates
Explore Nitin’s designations:https://www.nitinguptadfw.com/dallas-realtor-designations
What Parents Say
“We were spending $40K/year in private tuition in the Bay Area. Now we live in Southlake, our kids are in Carroll ISD, and we’re not compromising on quality. Nitin’s insights were key.”
Read more family relocation success stories:https://www.nitinguptadfw.com/reviews
Make an Educated Move
School quality doesn’t need to suffer when you relocate—it can actually improve. Let Nitin Gupta help you evaluate the best options in North Dallas and find a home that supports your child’s success.
Schedule your private consultation today:https://www.nitinguptadfw.com/contact
Call us at 469-269-6541 for more information about Plano real estate!
FIND A LUXURY HOME IN PLANO, TEXAS WITH NITIN GUPTA, BROKER ASSOCIATE, REALTOR®.
When purchasing a luxury home in Plano, Texas, it’s essential to consider factors such as location, architectural style, security, and amenities to ensure the home meets both lifestyle and investment needs. By selecting a property in a prestigious neighborhood with numerous amenities and security measures, buyers can ensure they’re making a valuable and rewarding investment in the vibrant Plano market.
For those looking to invest in luxury homes in Plano, Texas, Nitin Gupta is an expert real estate professional ready to assist. Known for his extensive experience, market insights, and numerous awards, he is committed to finding his clients the best properties in the area.
Contact Nitin Gupta at 469-269-6541 or send a message today to explore exclusive listings and secure your ideal luxury residence in one of Plano elite communities.
