According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), school quality continues to be one of the top factors influencing where families decide to buy a home. In the 2024 NAR Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers, 23% of buyers said school district quality influenced their decision, while 16% cited proximity to schools as a deciding factor.

For families with children—or young couples planning for the future—living near a top-rated school district often outweighs other home amenities. Beyond education, homes in strong school districts typically have higher resale value and attract more buyer interest, making them a smart long-term investment.

Here are six smart steps to guide you when evaluating school districts in 2025:

1. Create a Checklist That Fits Your Family’s Needs

Before you begin house-hunting, make a list of what matters most to you and your child’s education.

• Do you prefer traditional or progressive teaching methods?

• How important are extracurriculars like sports, arts, or STEM programs?

• Would smaller class sizes help your child thrive?

• Does your child need specialized support or enrichment programs?

A school is your child’s second home—knowing your values upfront will help you stay focused as you compare options.

2. Do Your Online Research

Take advantage of today’s school comparison tools:

• GreatSchools.org for ratings and parent reviews

• Niche.com for academic rankings and culture insights

• State Department of Education websites for performance data

• School newsletters and calendars for community involvement

Look at test scores, student-to-teacher ratios, graduation rates, teacher credentials, and specialized programs. Awards and recognitions are also strong indicators of excellence.

3. Ask Your Local Real Estate Agent

Local Realtors know which school districts drive demand and property values. A trusted agent can help you align your housing budget with strong school options, giving you both market insight and neighborhood guidance.

4. Use Your Network

Reach out to friends, family, coworkers, and online community groups. Social media platforms like Facebook or Nextdoor can connect you with parents who’ve had firsthand experience with local schools. Sometimes the best insights come from people you already trust.

5. Talk to Parents in the District

Conversations with parents can provide valuable, real-world feedback:

• How supportive are the teachers and staff?

• Are after-school activities strong and diverse?

• Do parents feel welcomed in the school community?

These insights can reveal what day-to-day life in the school district is really like.

6. Visit the Schools in Person (If Possible)

After narrowing your list, tour the schools in person—or schedule virtual tours if you’re relocating. Walk through classrooms, observe the environment, and get a sense of the culture. Seeing it firsthand can help confirm whether it’s the right fit for your family.

The Bottom Line

Choosing a home in a top school district is more than a real estate decision—it’s an investment in your child’s future. By combining research, expert advice, and firsthand insights, you’ll be prepared to make the best choice for your family.

If you’re exploring homes in Conejo Valley, Westlake Village, Thousand Oaks, Agoura Hills, Newbury Park, or Simi Valley, the team at Lydia Gable Realty Group is here to help you find the right home in the right district.