In Los Angeles, the cost of a private education at the city's most exclusive institutions can surpass the annual expenses of attending UCLA, with tuition at the top five schools exceeding $57,000 per year. Westmark School in Encino leads the pack with an annual tuition of $69,928 for students in grades 2 through 12 who have learning differences. This figure does not include a $4,200 deposit and a one-time fee of $2,125.
The Buckley School in Sherman Oaks follows at $58,788 annually for grades 6 through 12. The school's notable alumni include Paris Hilton, Kim Kardashian, and Paris Jackson. Its campus spans 18 acres and includes an outdoor field and stadium, drawing students from over 70 zip codes. When Michael Jackson's children attended, bodyguards were reportedly present on campus.
Brentwood School ranks third with tuition of $58,207 for grades 6 through 12, known as a favored institution among Hollywood powerbrokers. Children of Arnold Schwarzenegger, Maria Shriver, and Rick Caruso have attended Brentwood. Its facilities feature some of the first zero-net-energy classrooms in Los Angeles County.
Oakwood School in North Hollywood is fourth, charging $57,550 for grades 7 through 12, with an additional new-student fee and building assessment. Founded in part by actor Robert Ryan, its alumni include Chris Pine, Lily-Rose Depp, and the children of Danny DeVito. The school is recognized for an immersive two-week program where students tackle real-world challenges.
Milken Community School rounds out the top five at $57,450, plus a $2,700 annual security fee and a $2,500 new-student fee. The school offers a finance program where students manage an investment portfolio with professional mentorship, and its curriculum includes fashion design and a comedy class. Milken students also undertake three trips to Israel, which are billed separately from tuition, along with laptops and required school clothing. Tuition covers books, retreats, and service-learning day trips.