What Are the Best School Districts In or Near Pleasant Hill, CA?

Families moving to Pleasant Hill often ask the same question:

What are the best school districts in or near Pleasant Hill, California?

Pleasant Hill is located in central Contra Costa County and is surrounded by several highly regarded public school districts. Below is a clear, up-to-date overview of the best school districts serving Pleasant Hill and nearby communities, along with what families should know when evaluating school options.

Pleasant Hill School District (PHSD)

Pleasant Hill School District serves most elementary and middle school students within Pleasant Hill.

Grades: K–8 Why families choose it:

• Consistently strong academic performance

• Well-rated elementary schools such as Gregory Gardens, Sequoia, and Strandwood

• Strong parent involvement and community support

• Focus on STEM, literacy, and social-emotional learning

  
  

Pleasant Hill School District is frequently ranked above average within Contra Costa County and is a major draw for families with younger children.

College Park High School (MDUSD)

Most Pleasant Hill students attend College Park High School, part of the Mount Diablo Unified School District.

Grades: 9–12 Why it stands out:

• International Baccalaureate (IB) program

• Wide range of AP courses and electives

• Strong performing arts and athletics programs

• Positive reputation among East Bay high schools

  
  

College Park High School is widely considered one of the stronger comprehensive high schools in MDUSD and is a key factor for families choosing Pleasant Hill.

Walnut Creek School District (Nearby Option)

Some homes near Pleasant Hill boundaries feed into the Walnut Creek School District.

Grades: K–8 Why families look here:

• Very high parent satisfaction

• Strong test scores and enrichment programs

• Smaller district size

  
  

Buyers specifically seeking Walnut Creek schools often focus on neighborhoods close to the Pleasant Hill–Walnut Creek border.

Acalanes Union High School District (Nearby & Highly Ranked)

For families prioritizing top-tier high schools, Acalanes Union High School District is frequently mentioned.

Grades: 9–12. Why it’s notable:

• Some of the highest-ranked public high schools in the East Bay

• College-preparatory focus

• Strong academic outcomes

  
  

While Pleasant Hill itself is generally not zoned for Acalanes schools, nearby cities such as Lafayette and parts of Walnut Creek are.

Diablo Unified vs. Smaller Districts: What Families Should Know

Pleasant Hill benefits from access to both a strong local elementary district and a reputable high school, while also being close to smaller, high-performing districts.

Important considerations:

• School boundaries can change

• Specific addresses matter more than city names

• Transfer options may be available depending on availability

  
  

Families are always encouraged to verify school assignments directly with the district.

Why School Districts Matter for Pleasant Hill Homebuyers

Pleasant Hill consistently attracts buyers because it offers:

• Strong schools without the price point of some neighboring cities

• A central location near Walnut Creek and Lafayette

• A family-friendly community with parks, trails, and services

  
  

For many buyers, Pleasant Hill represents a balance between quality education and attainable home prices.

Final Thoughts

Pleasant Hill is served by several well-rated school districts, making it a popular choice for families relocating within Contra Costa County. While Pleasant Hill School District and College Park High School anchor the city, nearby districts like Walnut Creek and Acalanes provide additional options depending on location and priorities.

If schools are a key factor in your home search, working with a local real estate expert who understands both neighborhoods and school boundaries is essential.