Best Neighborhoods for Top Schools in Richmond Hill – A Parent’s Guide to Smart Moves

Moving to Richmond Hill and want to make sure your kids get into the best schools? You’re not alone. Schools are a huge factor for many homebuyers, and Richmond Hill has some of the top-ranked elementary and high schools in Ontario.

To make your search easier, we’re breaking it down into two sections:

✔ Top 3 Elementary Schools in Richmond Hill (based on Fraser Institute rankings - School Year 2022-2023)
✔ Top 3 High Schools in Richmond Hill (also ranked by Fraser Institute - School Year 2022-203)

And because choosing a school also means choosing a neighborhood, we’ll go over the best areas to live for each school, so you know exactly where to look.

What is the Fraser Institute Ranking? Why Does It Matter?

Before we dive into the schools, let’s talk about how they’re ranked. The Fraser Institute is an independent, non-partisan research organization that evaluates schools across Canada. Their rankings are based on standardized test results, student improvement over time, gender gaps in performance, and other key indicators.

What makes Fraser Institute rankings valuable is that they provide an objective, data-driven way to compare schools, helping parents make informed decisions. However, rankings are just one part of the puzzle—a great school experience also depends on the teachers, community, and your child’s unique needs.

Source: Fraser Institute

Top 3 Elementary Schools in Richmond Hill 

These schools are ranked based on Fraser Institute scores, which measure academic performance through standardized test results, student progress, and other key factors.

Top 3 High Schools in Richmond Hill 

Rouge Woods Neighbourhood 

• Silver Stream Public School: Fraser Institute Score: 9.5/10

  
  

Silver Stream Public School is known for its strong academics, engaged teachers, and an incredibly supportive parent community. 

The neighbourhood itself is packed with modern homes, beautiful parks, and family-friendly amenities. Residents enjoy proximity to Richmond Green Sports Centre and Park, offering various recreational activities.

Interesting Fact: The area boasts a diverse selection of quality homes, from townhomes to larger detached houses backing onto scenic ravines, catering to families of all sizes.

✔ Why Families Love Rouge Woods:

• Plenty of parks and walking trails

• Safe, quiet and family-friendly neighborhood

• Strong school-community partnerships

Langstaff

• Pope John Paul II: Fraser Institute Score: 9.4/10

Langstaff is a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces, offering a blend of townhomes, semi-detached houses, condos, and detached homes. The area is well-connected, with multiple shopping centers and entertainment complexes.

St. John Paul II Catholic School is located in Richmond Hill and has been recognized for its academic excellence. In recent years, the school has seen a significant rise in its rankings, reflecting its commitment to providing quality education and fostering a supportive learning environment. This upward trajectory is a testament to the dedication of its staff and the enthusiasm of its students.

Interesting Fact: One of Richmond Hill's oldest neighbourhoods, Langstaff's settlement dates back to the late 1700s when United Empire Loyalists and other European immigrants began moving into the region.

✔ Why Families Love Langstaff:

• A central location with easy transit access

• Strong community involvement

• Close to shopping, entertainment, and parks

Doncrest

• Doncrest Public School: Fraser Institute Score: 9.2/10

Nestled between Bayview and Leslie, Doncrest is a growing neighbourhood with newer homes and a quiet, family-friendly vibe.

Doncrest Public School has demonstrated significant academic improvement in recent years. According to the Fraser Institute's report, the school achieved a notable score of 9.2 out of 10, a substantial increase from its five-year average of 7.9. This upward trend reflects the school's dedication to enhancing educational outcomes and fostering a supportive learning environment. Families in the Doncrest area appreciate the school's commitment to academic excellence and its role in the community.

Doncrest is a small residential area along and east of Yonge Street, known for its quiet, family-friendly streets and a mix of new and established homes. The community enjoys proximity to various Chinese businesses and restaurants along Highway 7.

Interesting Fact: The area is located on the crest of the Don River tributary, German Mills Creek, providing scenic natural surroundings.

✔ Why Families Love Doncrest:

• Quiet, family-friendly streets

• A mix of new builds and established homes

• Strong school rankings across all levels

Westbrook

• St. Theresa of Lisieux Catholic High School: Fraser Institute Score: 10/10

If you’re looking for a neighbourhood with top-ranked schools, family-friendly streets, and a welcoming atmosphere, Westbrook is the place to be. Situated in the heart of Richmond Hill, Westbrook offers families a balanced lifestyle with excellent schools, green spaces, and a strong sense of community. The neighbourhood features modern detached homes, quiet streets, and easy access to parks and recreational facilities.

St. Theresa of Lisieux Catholic High School, located in the Westbrook neighbourhood of Richmond Hill, has achieved remarkable academic success. According to the Fraser Institute's latest rankings, the school earned a perfect score of 10 out of 10, placing it at the top among Ontario's secondary schools. Over the past five years, it has maintained an impressive average score of 9.2, reflecting its consistent dedication to academic excellence.

Families in the Westbrook area highly value St. Theresa of Lisieux Catholic High School for its exceptional academic standards and its significant role within the community.

Interesting Fact: Westbrook is home to Elgin West Community Centre, one of Richmond Hill’s best recreational hubs, offering sports programs, fitness facilities, and community events for all ages.

✔ Why Families Love Westbrook:

• Access to top-ranked schools with strong academic performance

• Beautiful parks, trails, and recreational spaces

• Safe, family-friendly environment with modern homes

• Convenient access to shopping, dining, and transit options

Bayview Hill Neighbourhood

• Bayview Secondary School: Fraser Institute Score: 9.2/10

If you’re looking for a prestigious, family-oriented community, Bayview Hill is it. This neighbourhood is known for its large, luxurious homes, meticulously maintained lawns and one of the most active parent communities in Richmond Hill.

One of the most sought-after schools in York Region, Bayview Secondary School offers an International Baccalaureate (IB) program, making it a fantastic choice for high-achieving students. Over the past five years, Bayview Secondary has maintained a strong average score of 8.5, demonstrating consistent performance. Bayview Hill community is active, with amenities like the Bayview Hill Community Centre and proximity to shopping centers.

Interesting Fact: Built in the early 1990s, Bayview Hill's expansive homes and exclusive ambiance make it one of Richmond Hill's most prestigious neighbourhoods.

✔ Why Families Love Bayview Hill:

• Strong academic focus

• Well-established community with luxury homes

• Access to excellent schools

Devonsleigh

• Richmond Hill High School: Fraser Institute Score: 8.8/10

  
  

Located in central Richmond Hill, Devonsleigh is a well-planned, family-friendly neighborhood known for its top-rated schools, modern homes, and excellent amenities.

Established in the mid-19th century, Richmond Hill High School is one of the oldest secondary institutions in York Region. The school offers a variety of regional special education programs, including Advanced Placement, Alternative Education, Cooperative Education, and an Orthopedic Program.

Interesting Fact: Devonsleigh is a relatively newer neighborhood compared to other historic parts of Richmond Hill. It was developed primarily in the 1990s and has since grown into a thriving residential area with excellent schools, parks, and modern amenities.

✔ Why Families Love Devonsleigh:

• Modern residential developments with family-friendly streets

• Close proximity to shopping centers, parks, and recreational facilities

• Easy access to major roads and transit options

Final Thoughts: Finding the Right Home in Richmond Hill

Choosing a home is about more than just school rankings—it’s about finding a place where your family will truly enjoy life.

With years of experience in Richmond Hill real estate, we know these neighborhoods inside and out. We’ve helped countless families find homes in the best school zones, and we’d love to do the same for you.

So, if you’re ready to make a move or even just have some questions, reach out today. We’ll help you find a home that’s not just good on paper—but perfect for your family in real life.

📞 Call us today and let’s find your dream home in Richmond Hill!