Top-Rated Schools and Homes Within the Walnut Creek School District
Great Schools, Great Communities — and Lasting Value
For many homebuyers, school districts are one of the biggest factors when choosing where to live. In Walnut Creek, the Walnut Creek School District (WCSD) consistently ranks among the best in the East Bay, making it a major draw for families — and a long-term value driver for homeowners.
In this post, we’ll break down the top schools, where to find homes in those attendance zones, and how to align your home search with your educational goals.
What Is the Walnut Creek School District?
WCSD serves students in transitional kindergarten through 8th grade (TK–8), and then feeds into the highly regarded Acalanes Union High School District for grades 9–12 AND Northgate High School in the Mt Diablo School District.
Key benefits of the district include:
High statewide testing scores
Small class sizes
Engaged parent communities
Enrichment in the arts, STEM, and outdoor education
Homes located within these school boundaries often sell for a premium — and maintain strong resale value.
Top Public Schools in Walnut Creek
Here are some of the most respected campuses within WCSD and Acalanes Union:
🏫 Walnut Heights Elementary
Known for academic rigor, strong PTA, and community involvement
Nearby neighborhoods: Parkmead, Walnut Heights, and parts of Rudgear
🏫 Murwood Elementary
Diverse student body, strong enrichment programs
Nearby neighborhoods: Saranap, Larkey Park
🏫 Indian Valley Elementary
Surrounded by natural beauty and open space
Nearby neighborhoods: Northgate, Rancho San Miguel
🏫 Tice Creek K–8
Unique K–8 model with strong middle-grade support
Nearby neighborhoods: Rudgear Estates, South Walnut Creek
🏫 Northgate High School (Mt Diablo School District)
College prep focus, high test scores, top-tier athletics and arts
Nearby neighborhoods: Northgate, The Woodlands
How School Boundaries Affect Your Home Search
Because Walnut Creek is served by multiple school districts (including parts of Mt. Diablo Unified), it’s important to verify the exact school assignments for any home you’re considering.
Key Tips:
Don’t rely solely on Zillow or Redfin for school info — check the district websites directly.
Confirm with the listing agent or the local district office.
Keep in mind that school boundaries can change, especially in high-growth areas.
If being in a top-rated zone is a must, your agent can help you filter listings by school assignment.
Popular Neighborhoods for Top Schools
Here’s where to look if school quality is a top priority:
Parkmead → Near Walnut Heights Elementary
Northgate → Close to Indian Valley + Northgate High
Rudgear Estates → Zoned for Tice Creek and close to Shell Ridge trails
Walnut Heights → Strong elementary school and close-knit community
These neighborhoods not only offer access to excellent education — they’re also in high demand, making them wise long-term investments.
Looking for Private or Alternative Options?
Walnut Creek is also home to respected private and charter schools, including:
Northcreek Academy
Fusion Academy
Contra Costa Christian School
Seven Hills School
If you’re exploring private options, let your agent know — you may be able to consider a broader range of neighborhoods.
Final Thoughts
Buying a home in the Walnut Creek School District is about more than education — it’s about community, lifestyle, and future value. Whether you're a parent planning ahead or a buyer looking for lasting investment, school zones are one of the smartest filters you can apply to your home search.
Need help navigating homes in top school zones?
The 5 Star Team knows the boundaries, the trends, and the homes that offer the best value for growing families.