Ladue Schools vs. Clayton Schools
- Lizzy Dooley
- Jul 25
- 11 min read
Updated: Aug 23
When choosing between Ladue and Clayton schools in St. Louis County, it boils down to priorities. Ladue serves more students, has higher national rankings, and offers unique programs like early college partnerships. Clayton boasts smaller class sizes, a slightly better student-to-counselor ratio, and a more urban community feel. Both districts excel in academics, graduation rates, and extracurriculars, but they differ in environment, demographics, and housing markets. Here’s what you need to know:
- Ladue Schools: Larger district with 4,482 students, ranked #1 locally and #6 nationally, with a suburban atmosphere. Median home price: $1.6 million.
- Clayton Schools: Smaller district with 2,522 students, ranked #2 locally and #31 nationally, offering a more urban lifestyle. Median home price: $625,000.
Quick Comparison
Both districts deliver top-tier education, but the decision depends on whether you prefer Ladue’s spacious suburbs or Clayton’s vibrant urban setting.
Academic Performance and School Rankings
District Test Scores and Graduation Rates
When it comes to academic performance, both Ladue and Clayton school districts outshine Missouri's state averages. In mathematics, Ladue Horton Watkins High School and Clayton High School both show a 71% proficiency rate, nearly doubling the state average of 39%. Reading scores tell a similar story - 74% of Ladue students meet proficiency standards compared to 69% at Clayton, while Missouri's state average lags behind at 43%.
Graduation rates in both districts are equally impressive, hovering near perfection. Clayton High School boasts a 99% graduation rate, while Ladue Horton Watkins High School follows closely with 97%.
State and National Rankings
Ladue School District edges out Clayton in state and national rankings. In 2025, Niche.com placed Ladue as the #6 best school district in the country, while Clayton came in at #31. These rankings are based on a mix of factors, including test scores, college readiness, and teacher quality.
At the high school level, U.S. News & World Report ranks Ladue Horton Watkins High School as #2 in the St. Louis Metro Area and #340 nationally. Clayton High School follows as #3 locally and #403 nationally. Despite these slight differences, both schools earn A+ overall grades from Niche, underscoring their commitment to excellence. These achievements highlight the districts' strong academic foundations, setting up a closer look at their advanced programs.
Advanced Programs and Course Offerings
Ladue Schools stand out with their variety of advanced and flexible learning options. Through a collaboration with other St. Louis County school districts, the St. Louis Virtual Campus offers K-5 synchronous classes and 6-12 asynchronous courses. This includes specialized options like Latin, Mandarin, and Cybersecurity for less-enrolled subjects. High school students can also take asynchronous courses in subjects like Algebra I, English 9, and Personal Finance, allowing for greater flexibility.
The district’s Early College Partnership with St. Louis Community College is another highlight, enabling students to graduate high school with an associate degree. Additionally, the Centers for Advanced Professional Studies (CAPS): Catalyst program provides internships in research, biomedicine, and technology fields. Starting in 8th grade, students work on Individual Career and Academic Plans (ICAPs), which are updated annually to guide them toward their post-graduation goals - whether that’s college, technical training, military service, or jumping straight into the workforce.
These academic strengths not only enhance learning but also set the stage for examining how they blend with extracurricular opportunities and the broader community environment.
Extracurricular Activities and Student Life
Sports, Arts, and Student Organizations
Ladue Horton Watkins High School offers an impressive array of over 100 clubs, covering everything from honor societies to STEM and service groups. With 93% of families acknowledging plentiful opportunities and 87% reporting active student participation, the school fosters a vibrant extracurricular culture.
The district's programs have also gained national recognition. Ladue's Science Olympiad teams consistently rank among the best in the country for STEM achievements. In February 2025, five students from Ladue Horton Watkins High School were chosen for the prestigious St. Louis Artists' Guild's Young Artists' Showcase. Competing against over 400 submissions from high school students within a 150-mile radius of St. Louis, these students stood out for their exceptional talent.
Clayton High School also provides a rich variety of extracurricular options, including seasonal sports programs and unique clubs like Hockey, Boys Lacrosse, and Ultimate Frisbee. Its Catalyst program is particularly noteworthy, offering students hands-on experience in global business and entrepreneurship through activities such as prototype development, client projects, and internships.
What sets Ladue apart is its emphasis on character development through student leadership. In 2025, Conway Elementary's Rambassadors and Ladue Early Childhood Center's Oakley's Ambassadors were recognized by Character.org as Promising Practices for their student-led initiatives promoting inclusion and character building.
Next, let’s explore how these districts support students with tailored class sizes and counseling resources.
Student Support and Class Sizes
Both districts prioritize student success through strong support systems, though their methods differ. Clayton boasts smaller class sizes, maintaining a student-to-teacher ratio of 10:1, compared to Ladue's 14:1 ratio.
When it comes to counseling, Ladue employs 11 full-time counselors for its 4,482 students, equating to one counselor per 407 students. Meanwhile, Clayton's six counselors serve 2,351 students, with a slightly better ratio of one counselor per 392 students. Additionally, Clayton offers before- and after-school care at each elementary school, providing essential support for working families.
School Environment and Parent Feedback
The strong support systems in both districts are reflected in positive community feedback. Clayton High School holds a 4.27/5 rating on Niche.com, while Ladue Horton Watkins High School follows closely with a 4.17/5 rating.
Parents and students frequently highlight Ladue’s supportive atmosphere. One parent shared:
"Ladue schools changed my child's course in life. The teachers are top notch. The facilities are beautiful. The families are so kind. The community is incredible. We moved specifically for the school and it couldn't have been a better choice for us. Highly recommend."
A senior echoed this sentiment:
"Ladue School District, and especially Ladue Horton Watkins High School, is an amazing place to be. The teachers are incredibly supportive, and the student life is fantastic, with a super positive culture where everyone feels included."
Reed Elementary in Ladue earned a perfect 5/5 rating, with one parent remarking:
"Reed not only has outstanding teachers and curriculum, it offers a sense of community that's hard to find at any school--public or private."
Clayton schools also receive glowing praise. A parent from Wydown Middle School said:
"I adore everything about this school. The teachers are amazing and supportive. Administration is involved and approachable. Absolutely top notch."
Beyond academics, both districts demonstrate a commitment to community engagement. In May 2025, the Ladue School District raised over $10,000 in just two days for the American Red Cross-St. Louis Relief Fund after a regional tornado. The district-wide campaign was spearheaded by Character Education representatives.
These vibrant extracurricular offerings and supportive environments not only contribute to student success but also enhance the community's overall appeal, a factor that often influences local real estate decisions.
Community Character and Neighborhood Differences
Demographics and Community Feel
Both Ladue and Clayton districts share a 40% minority enrollment rate, but subtle demographic variations set them apart. Ladue, covering roughly 19 square miles, serves over 27,000 residents and boasts a linguistic diversity with 65 primary languages spoken in family homes. The district has a higher percentage of Asian or Asian/Pacific Islander students at 16.8%, compared to Clayton's 12.1%, while Clayton has a slightly larger proportion of White students at 61.4%, compared to Ladue's 55.6%. Interestingly, only 23% of Ladue district residents currently have children enrolled in its schools. Both areas emphasize education and cultural engagement, offering students valuable exposure to a global perspective. These demographic details add depth to the unique character of each neighborhood, which is further reflected in their residential settings.
Local Amenities and Housing Types
Ladue is known for its spacious homes on large lots, complemented by upscale amenities like country clubs, fine dining, boutique shops along Clayton Road, and the nearby Plaza Frontenac mall. In 2023, the median home price in Ladue reached $1,075,000, with a median household income nearing $200,000.
Clayton, on the other hand, offers a mix of urban and suburban living. Its housing options include smaller residences and a variety of architectural styles, catering to families and professionals who appreciate urban convenience alongside a strong sense of community. This blend of housing types creates a more compact, city-like atmosphere.
Economic and Social Factors
Beyond their physical features, the economic profiles of Ladue and Clayton highlight the emphasis placed on high-quality education. Elevated home prices and property taxes reflect the demand for top-tier schools. With annual property taxes exceeding $10,000, both districts boast impressive educational outcomes, including a high school graduation rate of around 98%, far above Missouri's state average of 89%. Notably, 40% of school-age children in these areas attend private institutions.
Community involvement also plays a key role in shaping these neighborhoods. Sheri Glantz, a Ladue School District Board Member, underscores this commitment:
"It is important to the community to maintain the stellar reputation of our district, to keep on the cutting edge and be a leader as opposed to being followers."
Clayton, with its smaller school district, fosters close-knit relationships among families, educators, and community members, creating a more intimate and connected environment.
Real Estate Impact and Market Analysis
Effect on Home Values
The quality of school districts in Ladue and Clayton has a noticeable influence on local home values. As Colin Gordon put it, "I bought a house there because the schools are good". This sentiment reflects how strong schools drive demand in these areas.
In June 2025, Ladue's median sale price hit $1.6 million - a staggering 42.2% increase from the previous year. Homes in Ladue typically sell within 20 days, with the median price per square foot rising 5.2% year-over-year to $335. Over a longer timeline, from 2000 to 2024, Ladue home prices surged by 109%, outpacing Clayton's 77% increase. By 2024, Ladue's median home price stood at approximately $1.15 million, compared to $625,000 in Clayton.
The perception of high-quality schools continues to be a major factor in driving home-buying decisions, boosting both demand and prices. This brings us to the diverse property options available in these sought-after neighborhoods.
Home Prices and Property Options
The housing markets in Ladue and Clayton show distinct differences. In Ladue, recent home sales ranged from $559,900 to $2,899,000. Meanwhile, Clayton homes sold within a range of about $749,000 to $2,075,000. Ladue properties are selling at 100% of their list price, slightly edging out Clayton, where homes sell at roughly 98% of the list price. Additionally, homes in Clayton tend to stay on the market for an average of 24 days, compared to Ladue's 20 days, indicating slightly higher demand in Ladue.
Lizzy Dooley Real Estate Local Knowledge
These market trends highlight the significant role school district quality plays in shaping real estate dynamics. Navigating these competitive markets requires deep local expertise, and Lizzy Dooley Real Estate brings that to the table. Their specialized knowledge of Ladue and Clayton allows clients to make well-informed decisions in these premium neighborhoods.
The team's experience with luxury and off-market properties is particularly valuable in areas where inventory moves quickly. Having access to exclusive listings and early insights can make all the difference for buyers and sellers alike.
Through personalized consultations, Lizzy Dooley Real Estate helps families understand the unique appeal of each district. Whether it's Ladue’s reputation for comfort and prestige or Clayton’s identity as an affluent, bustling business hub, they guide clients in choosing the environment that aligns with their lifestyle and future goals.
The consistent premium on homes near top-rated schools underscores the importance of education quality in these markets. As St. Louis County Assessor Jake Zimmerman observed, "This market has been pretty lousy for people owning really, really ritzy houses". Understanding these shifts and timing decisions accordingly requires expert advice from agents who monitor local trends daily.
Whether you're buying or selling, Lizzy Dooley Real Estate’s neighborhood expertise ensures clients gain a clear understanding of how school district reputations, demographic shifts, and community investments can shape a property’s long-term value.
Side-by-Side Comparison: Ladue Schools vs. Clayton Schools
Comparison Chart
Here’s a breakdown of how Ladue and Clayton schools compare across academics, real estate, and extracurricular activities:
Real Estate Market Comparison
The real estate market offers additional insights into these districts:
Extracurricular Highlights
Ladue Schools stand out with a wide variety of extracurricular activities. Their middle school offers over 40 clubs, including options like math competitions, Science Olympiad, and even a ski club. Recent achievements include the Girls Track & Field team winning back-to-back State Championships and the Middle School Science Olympiad team securing 9th place nationally in 2025. The high school also ranked 27th at the National Science Olympiad tournament.
Clayton Schools, on the other hand, focus on academic and arts-related extracurriculars, with strong programs in band, robotics, and other scholarly activities.
Community Character
Both districts cater to affluent communities, but their environments differ. Ladue offers a picturesque suburban vibe with tree-lined streets and a mix of luxury homes and charm. Clayton, in contrast, leans more urban, with its competitive real estate market reflecting a bustling city-like atmosphere. These differences shape not only the school experiences but also the lifestyle in each area.
Top 10 School Districts in St Louis: Detailed Comparison
Conclusion
Both Ladue and Clayton school districts stand out as top choices in Missouri, but deciding between them depends on what best suits your family's needs and lifestyle.
Ladue School District holds the top spot in the St. Louis area, known for its strong college prep programs and an impressive average SAT score of 1,430. It offers a suburban setting with plenty of space and a focus on academic achievement. On the other hand, Clayton School District, ranked second, provides a more personal touch with a 12:1 student-teacher ratio and an average ACT score of 29. Its urban location offers a vibrant and dynamic environment.
Great schools don't just shape futures - they also influence property values and how quickly homes sell. This makes it crucial to factor educational quality into your real estate decisions.
Whether you're drawn to Ladue's suburban appeal or Clayton's urban energy, both districts promise excellent academics and contribute to strong property values. At Lizzy Dooley Real Estate, we understand these market trends and are here to guide you in finding the right fit for your family and investment goals.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to which environment - Ladue's spacious suburbs or Clayton's lively urban scene - aligns with your family's priorities and long-term plans.
FAQs
What are the main differences between the Ladue and Clayton school district communities?
The Ladue and Clayton school districts each offer distinct lifestyles, catering to different preferences. Ladue has a suburban charm, featuring spacious homes on larger lots. Its quieter, more traditional vibe appeals to those who value privacy and a peaceful atmosphere. With its less walkable layout and an older demographic, Ladue is ideal for families or individuals looking for a serene environment.
In contrast, Clayton offers a vibrant, urban feel. Its highly walkable streets, lively social scene, and close-knit community make it perfect for those who enjoy a more dynamic, city-like lifestyle. Homes in Clayton are typically on smaller lots, reflecting its compact and bustling character. Both areas stand out for their unique appeal, offering something for everyone based on their lifestyle preferences.
What are the differences in advanced programs and course options between Ladue and Clayton schools?
Ladue Schools focus on hands-on and inquiry-driven learning, offering students access to virtual classes, career-oriented programs, and early college enrollment options. These initiatives aim to equip students with the skills needed for success in both college and the job market.
Clayton Schools prioritize college readiness, featuring a broad selection of Advanced Placement (AP) courses and specialized high school programs. These offerings are designed to help students excel academically and stand out in the competitive college admissions process.
While both districts offer a variety of advanced learning opportunities, their unique approaches provide families the flexibility to choose programs that best match their educational priorities and future aspirations.
How do the quality of Ladue and Clayton school districts influence local real estate markets?
The reputation of schools in Ladue and Clayton plays a major role in shaping their real estate markets. Homes in these areas consistently attract higher prices and strong demand, thanks to their acclaimed school districts. For instance, Ladue's median home value hovers around $1,030,000, while Clayton properties often fetch premium prices due to the district’s strong academic reputation. Families prioritizing excellent education frequently target these neighborhoods, pushing property values upward and creating highly competitive markets.
