If you’re moving to Hinsdale, one of the first things you’ll notice is how much families here value education. The village is known for its charming homes, safe streets, and excellent schools. Whether you’re looking for public or private options, Hinsdale offers an impressive mix of top-rated institutions that make it one of the most sought-after suburbs near Chicago.
This guide breaks down the best public and private schools in Hinsdale, IL, with verified details to help families make confident decisions.
Why Hinsdale Is Known for Great Schools
Education Is the Heart of the Community
Hinsdale isn’t just beautiful—it’s built around education and family life. According to Niche (2025), the village ranks among the best places to live in Illinois for school quality, safety, and family-friendliness.
Local families take pride in their schools. Many community events, sports leagues, and volunteer programs revolve around them, creating strong neighborhood connections.
How Schools Affect Home Value and Lifestyle
Strong schools add stability and value to local neighborhoods. Families looking for homes near Hinsdale High School often mention convenience, consistent academic results, and community involvement as major reasons to buy.
At Johnny Kloster Real Estate, many homebuyers start their search based on school zones. A home in a top district not only supports children’s education but can also make a great long-term investment.
Best Public Schools in Hinsdale, IL
Hinsdale Central High School (District 86)
Known locally as Hinsdale High School, Hinsdale Central High School is one of the top-performing public schools in Illinois.
Quick Facts:
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Location: 5500 S Grant St, Hinsdale, IL 60521
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Grades: 9–12
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District: Hinsdale Township High School District 86
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Enrollment: Around 2,436 students
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Student-Teacher Ratio: 13:1
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Academic Proficiency: 71% in math, 71% in reading
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Ranking: #8 out of 696 public high schools in Illinois (Niche, 2025)
The school is known for its challenging classes, including more than 20 Advanced Placement (AP) options, and a strong record in sports and arts. Students join a wide range of activities—academic clubs, theater, debate, and championship-level athletics.
A 2024 report by The Hinsdalean noted that District 86 schools earned top ratings on the Illinois State Report Card, showing strong performance and steady growth across all areas. .
Middle Schools in District 181
Clarendon Hills Middle School and Hinsdale Middle School both prepare students for success at Hinsdale Central. They focus on leadership, creativity, and critical thinking.
Families can review district-wide academic results at the Illinois Report Card (2024), which provides verified data on test scores, teacher quality, and student growth.
Elementary Schools in Hinsdale
Younger students benefit from an excellent start through schools such as:
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Monroe Elementary School
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Oak Elementary School
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Madison Elementary School
These schools consistently receive high marks on GreatSchools.org (2025) for academic performance and parent satisfaction. Families praise their small class sizes, dedicated teachers, and community-focused programs.
Best Private Schools in Hinsdale, IL
The Avery Coonley School
Located nearby in Downers Grove, The Avery Coonley School serves gifted and advanced learners from kindergarten through eighth grade. The school offers a hands-on curriculum that encourages creativity, collaboration, and academic independence.
St. Isaac Jogues Catholic School
Right in the heart of Hinsdale, St. Isaac Jogues School provides faith-based education for pre-kindergarten through eighth grade. It combines strong academics with values-based learning, supported by a close-knit parish community.
Other Private Options Nearby
Families also explore nearby high schools such as Benet Academy in Lisle and Nazareth Academy in La Grange Park. Both have a reputation for strong academics, extracurricular activities, and college preparation.
Choosing the Right School for Your Family
What to Look For
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Factor |
Why It Matters |
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Academic Programs |
Shows how well the school prepares students for college or future studies |
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Class Size |
Smaller classes often mean more attention for each student |
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Extracurricular Activities |
Sports, arts, and clubs help build leadership and teamwork |
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School Location |
Living within district zones ensures consistent access |
Families can confirm school boundaries and updated zoning maps at the official District 86 website.
Visit and Explore
Many schools in Hinsdale offer open houses or private tours. Visiting classrooms, talking with teachers, and meeting other parents gives families a real sense of each school’s atmosphere.
If you’re relocating from another state or city, attending these visits can help your children adjust more easily and get excited about their new environment.
Living Near Hinsdale’s Top Schools
Popular Neighborhoods Near Hinsdale Central High School
Some of the most popular areas near Hinsdale High School include:
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Southeast Hinsdale – known for large homes and tree-lined streets
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The Woodlands – a peaceful neighborhood with beautiful parks
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Robbins Park Historic District – filled with vintage homes and local charm
Living close to school allows families to walk or bike to campus and attend community events more easily. It also encourages friendships between students and neighbors.
Life Beyond the Classroom
Hinsdale isn’t only about academics. The community offers a high quality of life, from boutique shopping and fine dining to local festivals like the Hinsdale Fine Arts Festival and Uniquely Thursdays concerts.
Families also enjoy outdoor recreation in the village’s many parks and playgrounds. The Metra train line connects Hinsdale to downtown Chicago in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for professionals who want suburban peace without giving up city access.
Education Meets Lifestyle in Hinsdale
Choosing a home near Hinsdale High School isn’t just about finding the right district—it’s about joining a community that values growth, learning, and connection. Hinsdale offers families the perfect balance of academic opportunity, neighborhood warmth, and long-term value.
At Johnny Kloster Real Estate, we understand how education shapes home decisions. Our local expertise helps families find properties in the best school zones that fit their goals and lifestyle.
Explore available listings in Hinsdale, learn more about nearby schools, and discover why this village remains one of the most desired places to call home in Illinois.
Frequently Asked Questions About Schools in Hinsdale, IL
1. What school district serves most of Hinsdale?
Most of Hinsdale is served by Hinsdale Township High School District 86 for high school and Community Consolidated District 181 for elementary and middle schools. Both are highly rated for academic excellence and community involvement.
2. Are Hinsdale public schools ranked among the best in Illinois?
Hinsdale Central High School ranks among the top 10 public high schools in Illinois, while several District 181 elementary schools receive high ratings on GreatSchools.org.
3. What private school options are available in or near Hinsdale?
Top private choices include St. Isaac Jogues Catholic School in Hinsdale and The Avery Coonley School in nearby Downers Grove. Families also consider Benet Academy and Nazareth Academy for high school.
4. How can I find out which school district a Hinsdale home belongs to?
You can verify school boundaries by checking the official District 181 and District 86 boundary maps or using the Illinois State Board of Education’s school locator tool before purchasing a home.
5. Do Hinsdale schools offer programs for gifted or advanced students?
Yes. District 181 provides enrichment and accelerated learning opportunities, and The Avery Coonley School specializes in education for gifted learners through individualized, project-based programs.
6. How do Hinsdale schools support extracurricular development?
Hinsdale schools emphasize a balanced approach, offering athletics, performing arts, STEM clubs, and leadership programs that encourage teamwork and personal growth.
7. What makes living near Hinsdale Central High School appealing for families?
Proximity to Hinsdale Central means short commutes, walkable neighborhoods, and strong community ties. Many families choose nearby areas like Southeast Hinsdale and Robbins Park for their convenience and charm.
8. Are there public transportation options for students in Hinsdale?
Yes. School bus routes are available for eligible students, and the Metra BNSF line provides easy access to Chicago for older students and commuting parents.
