Schools in Coral Gables

Coral Gables — known locally as "The City Beautiful" — is one of South Florida's most distinguished residential communities, defined by its Mediterranean Revival architecture, tree-canopied boulevards, and a deep civic commitment to aesthetics and education. Founded in the 1920s by George Merrick as a planned community, Coral Gables has maintained its elegant character through strict zoning and architectural review. The demographic is predominantly affluent professionals, University of Miami faculty, Latin American business families, and established South Florida residents who value tradition, walkability, and access to outstanding schools.

The education landscape in Coral Gables is among the strongest in all of Miami-Dade County. Public schools here consistently rank at the top of state assessments, with Coral Gables Senior High School holding a long-standing reputation for academic excellence and its acclaimed International Baccalaureate program. Elementary and middle school options within the Coral Gables feeder pattern — including Sunset Elementary and George Washington Carver Middle — are highly sought after by families purchasing homes specifically for school zoning. Private schools in Coral Gables and the immediately adjacent areas include prominent Catholic, nonsectarian, and college-preparatory institutions. Tuition at leading private schools ranges from $18,000 to $40,000 per year. The presence of the University of Miami adds an academic ecosystem that benefits K-12 students through mentorship programs, dual enrollment, and campus cultural events.

Family amenities in Coral Gables reflect the city's emphasis on quality of life. The Venetian Pool — a historic spring-fed swimming pool carved from coral rock — is a beloved family landmark. Matheson Hammock Park offers a calm, lagoon-style beach ideal for young children, while Coral Gables' extensive network of parks includes playgrounds, soccer fields, and tennis courts maintained to high standards. The Coral Gables Branch Library, Actors' Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre, and the Lowe Art Museum at the University of Miami provide rich cultural programming. Miracle Mile and Shops at Merrick Park cover family shopping and dining needs with a distinctly upscale, walkable feel.

Transport in Coral Gables benefits from the city's central location within the Miami metro. The Metrorail has stations at Douglas Road and University, connecting Coral Gables to Brickell, Downtown Miami, and Miami International Airport within minutes. US-1 (South Dixie Highway) and the Palmetto Expressway provide north-south and east-west road connectivity. The Coral Gables free trolley service operates multiple routes through the city center, and cycling infrastructure is steadily improving. School commutes within the city are typically under 15 minutes, and access to private schools in Coconut Grove or Pinecrest is equally convenient.

Cost of living in Coral Gables reflects its prestige. Single-family homes typically start above $900,000, with properties in prime sections like the Riviera or Cocoplum reaching several million dollars. Rental apartments and townhouses suitable for families range from $3,000 to $5,500 per month. While these figures place Coral Gables among Miami's most expensive communities, the value proposition is clear: families choose Coral Gables for schooling because it delivers the rare combination of top-ranked public schools, excellent private alternatives, a safe and walkable urban environment, and a community culture that genuinely prioritizes education. For families relocating to Miami who want the strongest possible school district, Coral Gables is consistently the first recommendation.