For parents of school-age children, a great school district is probably at the top of the new home wish list. And let’s face it, even if you don’t have kids, highly-acclaimed schools can be positive for resale value in the future. For those looking to relocate, we’ve rounded up some areas boasting notable school districts.
ROCKLIN, CA
Located approximately 22 miles from Sacramento, Rocklin has a beautiful Sierra Nevada mountain backdrop. Notable schools and outdoor recreation make it a great place to call home. Residents are just a couple hours from both Lake Tahoe and San Francisco.
Where to buy a new home:
Creekside at Whitney Ranch in Rocklin, CA offers new homes from the upper $400s with up to 7 bedrooms and up to 3,400 sq. ft. Amenities include a community center, three parks and a pool with cabana lounge. Choose from two-story floor plans with options such as gourmet kitchens, formal dining rooms, spacious master suites and more.
Schools include Sunset Ranch Elementary School, Granite Oaks Middle School and Whitney High School, all ranked 9 or above out of 10 on greatschools.org.
ST. JOHNS, FL
Known for golfing, boutiques and upscale homes, St. Johns, Florida also has some of the most desirable schools in the Jacksonville area. Residents live halfway between downtown Jacksonville and historic St. Augustine, with its beaches, shopping and night life.
Where to buy a new home:
Oakridge Landing is situated in a highly sought-after area in St. Johns. The beach and countless amenities are a quick drive away. Homes in this neighborhood start from the upper $200s and feature up to 6 bedrooms and up to approximately 3,400 sq. ft.
Schools include Durbin Creek Elementary School, Fruit Cove Middle School and Creekside High School, all rated a 10/10 on greatschools.org.
NEW MARKET, MD
Historic New Market in Frederick County, MD is over 200 years old! The area is rich in history and has been claimed the Antique Capital of Maryland. This charming hamlet is situated 42 miles from Baltimore and 50 miles from Washington, DC.
Where to buy a new home:
Though history abounds in this area, beautiful new homes are sprouting up at Clearview at New Market. Starting from the low $400s, the two-story homes at this community still carry a traditional, elegant style. Wrap-around porches, sunrooms, conservatories and master suites with sitting rooms are available.
Schools that feed into this community: Deer Crossing Elementary School, Oakdale Middle School and Oakdale High School, all ranked 9 or above out of 10 on greatschools.org.
CENTENNIAL, CO
Located just south of Denver, Centennial, CO was ranked among the Best Places to Live by Money Magazine and USA Today in 2014. The city offers the best of urban conveniences, with plenty of trails and open spaces nearby. Residents can commute downtown via the light rail system and the Denver Tech Center is just a quick drive away.
Where to buy a new home:
Spruce Neighborhood is situated within the Copperleaf masterplan, which features amenities such as a community pool, clubhouse and parks. Both ranch and two-story homes are available, starting from the mid $300s with up to 5 bedrooms and approx. 3,000 sq. ft.
The community feeds into two sets of schools, all located within the popular Cherry Creek School District.