TLDR
Montclair itself has limited private school options — most families choosing private either use Lacordaire Academy (local Catholic school) or commute to top independents in nearby Essex/Morris County. Tuition ranges from $10,000 to $45,000+/year. Many Montclair families choose public magnet schools instead.
Private Schools in Montclair NJ & Nearby (2026)
Montclair's strong public school system means many families don't consider private options — but for those who do, here's a comprehensive guide to what's available in and around town.
Private Schools In or Adjacent to Montclair
Lacordaire Academy
Upper Montclair · Catholic, Co-ed, K–12
The only full K–12 private school within Montclair's borders. Catholic school with a solid academic program. Much more affordable than the elite independents. Good for families who want a religious education environment without the full private school price tag. Small class sizes, strong community.
Rolling admissions; apply directly to the school
Golda Och Academy
West Orange (10 min) · Jewish Day School, K–12
A well-regarded Jewish day school drawing students from across Essex County, including many Montclair families. Strong academics, dual curriculum (general + Judaic studies). Excellent college placement. For observant families, this is the top local option.
Application process with family interview
Seton Hall Preparatory
West Orange (10 min) · Catholic, Boys, 9–12
One of the most prestigious Catholic prep schools in NJ. All-male, 9–12. Excellent sports programs, strong AP offerings, and serious college placement. Many Montclair families send sons here. Competitive admission.
Entrance exam required in 8th grade
Top Independent Schools Within 20 Minutes
Newark Academy
Livingston, 15 min
Top-tier NJ independent, excellent college prep, diverse student body
Montclair Kimberley Academy (MKA)
Montclair, 5 min
The most prominent local independent. Pre-K through 12th grade, on multiple campuses in Montclair. Strong arts and academics.
Far Hills Country Day
Far Hills, 30 min
Strong for K–8 families; more of a commute
Villa Walsh Academy
Morristown, 25 min
Catholic girls school, 9–12, strong academics
Private vs. Public in Montclair: Which Is Right for Your Family?
This is a genuinely contested question among Montclair parents. Here's an honest framework:
Choose Montclair Public if...
- •You value diversity of all kinds (racial, economic, ideological)
- •Your child thrives in a Montessori or inquiry-based environment
- •You want to avoid $30,000–$45,000/year in tuition
- •You're comfortable navigating the magnet lottery
Consider Private if...
- •You want a guaranteed consistent program without lottery uncertainty
- •Religious education is important to your family
- •Your child has specific learning needs better served by smaller schools
- •You want a particular college-prep track (MKA, Newark Academy)
FAQ
What private schools are in Montclair NJ?
Montclair Kimberley Academy (MKA) is the most prominent private school with campuses in Montclair itself — Pre-K through 12th grade. Lacordaire Academy in Upper Montclair is the local Catholic option. Many families also attend private schools in nearby West Orange, Livingston, and Morristown.
How much does Montclair Kimberley Academy cost?
MKA tuition ranges from approximately $38,000 to $45,000 per year depending on grade level. Financial aid is available. Apply by their deadlines (typically January) for the following fall.
Are Montclair public schools better than private schools?
Montclair's public magnet system is strong and many families choose it over private for value, diversity, and program quality. However, private schools like MKA and Newark Academy offer smaller class sizes, more predictable placement, and specific environments that some families prefer. Both systems send graduates to competitive colleges.