Top Public High Schools in Knoxville TN for 2025
If you’re planning a move to Knoxville and schools are a top priority, recent rankings offer great news. The 2025 U.S. News and World Report rankings list five Knox County high schools among the top 100 in Tennessee.
Top High School in Knox County: L&N Stem Academy
L&N STEM Academy is the highest ranked high school in the district.
- Ranked number 6 in Tennessee
- Offers specialized programs in engineering, science, and technology
- Consistently performs well in advanced coursework participation, college readiness, and graduation metrics.
Additional High Performing High Schools
- Farragut High School, ranked number 13
- Bearden High School, ranked number 38
- West High School, ranked number 39
- Hardin Valley Academy, ranked number 57
How Rankings Are Determined
U.S. News evaluates high schools using data on student proficiency in core subjects, graduation rates, access to advanced placement coursework, and performance equity based on demographic context. The goal is to highlight schools that demonstrate strong achievement for all students.
School Zones to Consider When Moving to Knoxville
For families relocating to Knoxville, school zoning often plays a major role in choosing where to live. Knox County assigns students to schools based on residential addresses, and many neighborhoods are closely associated with the reputation and performance of their zoned high schools.
Several notable zones align with the district’s top performing schools.
Farragut
The Farragut community is known for strong schools at every grade level. Farragut High School consistently ranks near the top of the state, and the area is popular among families seeking academic stability and established neighborhoods.
Bearden
The Bearden area includes a mix of long established communities with convenient access to downtown and West Knoxville. Bearden High School’s ranking reflects solid academic outcomes and diverse course offerings.
Hardin Valley
Hardin Valley is one of Knoxville’s fastest growing communities. Hardin Valley Academy offers modern facilities and competitive academic programs, making the area appealing to families seeking newer developments and strong school options.
Downtown
L&N STEM Academy is not a traditional zoned high school because it is a magnet program. Families living throughout Knox County can apply. However, those living closer to central Knoxville often find the location especially convenient.
Before purchasing a home or signing a lease, families should verify school zone boundaries through the Knox County Schools online zone lookup tool. Boundaries can shift as populations grow, especially in areas with ongoing residential development.
Additional information on KnoxNews.com