New York Parents Struggle to Find Affordable, Quality Schools

As income inequality grows, families face tough choices for their children's education

Mar. 19, 2026 at 9:03am

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In an increasingly expensive New York City, many parents are on edge about where to enroll their children in school. While there are good public schools that prepare students for success, students can be waitlisted, and parents often worry that the school closest to home won't be challenging enough. With tight household budgets, there is little money for test prep, private tutoring, or additional help for students to get ahead in the public school system. The income divide is widening, and even some higher-earning families are worried about their children's prospects, as private school tuition reaches over $70,000 per year and Catholic schools have closed or raised costs. Charter schools are a popular option for many low-income families, but their numbers are limited, leading to debates over school choice and access to quality education.

Why it matters

The struggle to find affordable, quality schools in New York City reflects the larger issue of income inequality and its impact on access to education. As the cost of living and educational expenses continue to rise, families are being priced out of the best educational opportunities, which can have long-term consequences for social mobility and the city's future. This issue highlights the need for comprehensive solutions to improve the quality of public education and ensure that all families, regardless of income, have access to the resources and support they need to help their children succeed.

The details

Many parents are turning to private schools, but tuition at some of the city's top private schools is set to break $70,000 next year, far out of reach for the average New York household earning around $77,000 annually. Catholic schools, which have historically been a lower-cost private option, have seen more than 40 closures in recent years, and those that remain have raised their costs. In the public school system, parent associations often ask families to donate up to $1,700 per child, which can be a significant burden for those on tight budgets. Families are also hiring admissions consultants, at hundreds or even thousands of dollars, to navigate the complex public school application process, which can include over 500 options. Charter schools have become a popular choice for many low-income Black and Latino families, but their numbers are limited, leading to waitlists and debates over school choice and expansion.

  • In the past few years, more than 40 Catholic schools have closed in New York City.
  • Tuition at some of the city's top private schools is set to break $70,000 per year in the next academic year.

The players

Troy Closson

A reporter who covers education for the Metro desk at The New York Times.

Erin Dalton

The new commissioner of the New York City Department of Social Services, which manages benefits like SNAP and homeless services with an $18 billion budget.

Zohran Mamdani

The Mayor of New York City, who is opposed to charter school expansion and has discussed phasing out the city's gifted-and-talented programs in kindergarten.

Janno Lieber

The chief executive of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA).

Linda Rosenthal

A New York State Assemblywoman who has sponsored a bill to rename a subway station after Saul Zabar, the patriarch of the iconic Zabar's grocery store on the Upper West Side.

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What they’re saying

“Tuition at some of the city's top private schools is going to break $70,000 next year. It's one of the many ways that the educational landscape in New York is changing.”

— Troy Closson, Reporter, The New York Times

“Our job is to make sure that everybody who's eligible stays eligible, that they receive those supports in a timely manner and that we help to support their trajectory.”

— Erin Dalton, Commissioner, New York City Department of Social Services

“He was also the prince of pastrami, the baron of Brie and the count of coffee. And in deference to diversification, also the king of Cuisinarts.”

— Janno Lieber, Chief Executive, Metropolitan Transportation Authority

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.