Best Near North Public Schools (2026)

For the 2026 school year, there are 2 public schools serving 1,469 students in the neighborhood of Near North, Chicago, IL.
The top-ranked public schools in Near North are Payton College Preparatory High School and Salazar Elementary Bilingual Center. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
The neighborhood of Near North, Chicago, IL public schools have an average math proficiency score of 71% (versus the Illinois public school average of 27%), and reading proficiency score of 72% (versus the 30% statewide average).
Minority enrollment is 67% of the student body (majority Hispanic and Asian), which is more than the Illinois public school average of 55% (majority Hispanic).

Best Public Schools in the neighborhood of Near North, Chicago, IL (2026)

School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Payton College Preparatory High School
(Math: 84% | Reading: 95%)
Rank:
10/
10
Top 1%
1034 N Wells St
Chicago, IL 60610
(773) 534-0034
Gr: 9-12 | 1,260 students Student-teacher ratio: 14:1 Minority enrollment: 68%
Rank: #22.
Salazar Elementary Bilingual Center
(Math: 7% | Reading: 15-19%)
Rank:
3/
10
Bottom 50%
160 W Wendell St
Chicago, IL 60610
(773) 534-8310
Gr: PK-8 | 351 students Student-teacher ratio: 15:1 Minority enrollment: 99%

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-ranked public schools in the neighborhood of Near North, Chicago, IL?
The top-ranked public schools in the neighborhood of Near North, Chicago, IL include Payton College Preparatory High School and Salazar Elementary Bilingual Center.
How many public schools are located in the neighborhood of Near North, Chicago?
2 public schools are located in the neighborhood of Near North, Chicago.
What is the racial composition of students in the neighborhood of Near North, Chicago?
the neighborhood of Near North, Chicago public schools minority enrollment is 67% of the student body (majority Hispanic and Asian), which is more than the Illinois public schools average of 55% (majority Hispanic).

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