Wake County Schools & Education
Wake County, North Carolina
School Score
41/100
Higher = better
Rating
Average
Graduation Rate
90.2%
National avg 87.5%
Education Statistics
Graduation Rate
90.2%
National avg 87.5%
State avg 88.0%
Per-Pupil Spending
$6,574
National avg $13,239
State avg $6,969
School Score
41/100
Higher = better
State avg 40/100
State School Rank
#38
of 100 counties (1 = best)
Explore Wake County across the ByCounty Network
Education Overview
About Schools in Wake County, North Carolina
A Massive Urban Education Hub
Wake County is home to a sprawling education infrastructure with 225 public schools and 177,432 students. The county features 139 elementary, 41 middle, and 39 high schools, managed by 28 different districts. It is the largest school system in North Carolina, reflecting the region's rapid growth.
Strong Outcomes in a Growing System
Wake County maintains a solid 90.2% graduation rate, outpacing the state average of 88.0%. Per-pupil expenditure is $6,574, slightly below the state average of $6,969 and roughly half the national average of $13,000. Despite the lean spending, the county's school score of 52.7 remains above the state average.
The Power of Wake County Schools
The Wake County Schools district is the primary provider, overseeing 197 schools and 159,778 students. Families also have access to 26 charter schools, which represent 11.6% of the county's total public school options. These include specialized institutions like The Exploris School and Magellan Charter.
Large Schools in an Urban Core
With 125 schools located in city settings, education here feels urban and energetic. The average school size is 792 students, though flagship campuses like Apex Friendship High serve as many as 2,772 students. It is a diverse landscape that also includes 34 rural schools for those preferring a quieter pace.
Live Near Exceptional Urban Schools
Wake County’s schools are a major draw for professionals and families moving to the Research Triangle. Whether you're looking for an urban condo or a suburban estate, school proximity is a primary factor in local real estate value. Find your next home near some of the state’s largest and most diverse educational campuses.
School Overview
Total Schools
225
in Wake County
Total Enrollment
177,432
students
School Districts
28
districts
Charter Schools
26
12% of total
School Type Breakdown
28 School Districts in Wake County
Wake County Schools
Franklin Academy
Triangle Math and Science Academy
Pine Springs Preparatory Academy
East Wake Academy
Cardinal Charter Acad at Wendell Falls
Endeavor Charter
Peak Charter Academy
Carolina Charter Academy: CFA
Envision Science Academy
225 Public Schools in Wake County
| School Name | District | Grades | Type | Enrollment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apex Friendship High | Wake County Schools | 9–12 | High | 2,772 |
| Leesville Road High | Wake County Schools | 9–12 | High | 2,613 |
| Enloe High | Wake County Schools | 9–12 | High | 2,502 |
| Apex High | Wake County Schools | 9–12 | High | 2,500 |
| Panther Creek High | Wake County Schools | 9–12 | High | 2,435 |
| Millbrook High | Wake County Schools | 9–12 | High | 2,421 |
| Rolesville High | Wake County Schools | 9–12 | High | 2,373 |
| Cary High | Wake County Schools | 9–12 | High | 2,145 |
| Holly Springs High | Wake County Schools | 9–12 | High | 2,140 |
| Needham Broughton High | Wake County Schools | 9–12 | High | 2,128 |
| Wake Forest High School | Wake County Schools | 9–12 | High | 2,101 |
| Wakefield High | Wake County Schools | 9–12 | High | 2,072 |
| Athens Drive High | Wake County Schools | 9–12 | High | 2,062 |
| Green Level High | Wake County Schools | 9–12 | High | 2,052 |
| Green Hope High | Wake County Schools | 9–12 | High | 2,001 |
| Fuquay-Varina High | Wake County Schools | 9–12 | High | 1,940 |
| South Garner High | Wake County Schools | 9–12 | High | 1,824 |
| Heritage High | Wake County Schools | 9–12 | High | 1,811 |
| Knightdale High | Wake County Schools | 9–12 | High | 1,702 |
| Garner High | Wake County Schools | 9–12 | High | 1,683 |
Educational Attainment
Annual Per-Pupil Expenditure
$6,574
State avg $6,969
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Frequently Asked Questions
Schools in Wake County, North Carolina — FAQ
What does the school system look like in Wake County, North Carolina?
Wake County is home to a sprawling education infrastructure with 225 public schools and 177,432 students. The county features 139 elementary, 41 middle, and 39 high schools, managed by 28 different districts. It is the largest school system in North Carolina, reflecting the region's rapid growth.
How do schools in Wake County perform academically?
Wake County maintains a solid 90.2% graduation rate, outpacing the state average of 88.0%. Per-pupil expenditure is $6,574, slightly below the state average of $6,969 and roughly half the national average of $13,000. Despite the lean spending, the county's school score of 52.7 remains above the state average.
What are the major school districts in Wake County, North Carolina?
The Wake County Schools district is the primary provider, overseeing 197 schools and 159,778 students. Families also have access to 26 charter schools, which represent 11.6% of the county's total public school options. These include specialized institutions like The Exploris School and Magellan Charter.
What is the school experience like in Wake County?
With 125 schools located in city settings, education here feels urban and energetic. The average school size is 792 students, though flagship campuses like Apex Friendship High serve as many as 2,772 students. It is a diverse landscape that also includes 34 rural schools for those preferring a quieter pace.
How can I find homes near good schools in Wake County, North Carolina?
Wake County’s schools are a major draw for professionals and families moving to the Research Triangle. Whether you're looking for an urban condo or a suburban estate, school proximity is a primary factor in local real estate value. Find your next home near some of the state’s largest and most diverse educational campuses.
Counties with Similar School Profile
Data Sources
Education data sourced from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and the U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey. School scores are derived composite metrics.
Data is informational only. Coverage varies by county and reporting year. Not for use as the sole basis for educational decisions.