The 140+ Best High School Shows, Ranked

Molly Gander
Updated November 2, 2024 870.0K views 167 items
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178.7K votes
22.7K voters
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Vote up the best shows that frequently feature scenes inside a high school, feature high school students, and showcase themes unique to high school-age adolescents.
Latest additions: Hysteria!, Chastity High, Classified
Most divisive: House of Anubis
Over 22.7K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The 140+ Best High School Shows, Ranked

Tuning into high school TV shows is like taking a trip down memory lane, re-living the unfolding drama, romance, and sometimes comedy that makes teenage life so unpredictable. From locker-lined corridors to bustling cafeterias, these series capture the essence of adolescence with their poignant storylines, relatable characters, and unforgettable moments. Each unfolds a realm where high school isn't just about homework and tests; it's about navigating the nuances of friendships, first loves, and personal growth. 

Diving into the world of high school TV series, one finds a vibrant mix of engaging narratives. These shows often encapsulate the highs and lows of being a teenager, painting a vivid picture of school spirit interspersed with burgeoning love stories, rivalries, heartbreaks, and triumphs. They resonate deeply, leaving an indelible imprint long after the credits roll. More than entertainment, they offer vital reflections on adolescence, often sparking nostalgia while reminding viewers of the growing pains that come with coming of age. 

Take Gossip Girl for instance; the show narrates the entangled lives of privileged Manhattan teens, serving up a hearty dose of fashion, scandal, and plot twists. A beacon of the best teen dramas, Gossip Girl keeps audiences hooked from start to finish. Another standout, One Tree Hill chronicles the shared journey of half-brothers, offering a slice of high school life overlaid with basketball, music, and intricate relationships. Of course, the pool of commendable high school shows doesn't end there. Series like Pretty Little Liars, The O.C., and Riverdale have etched their names in the annals of teen TV shows, each spinning a riveting tale that transcends the typical classroom and cafeteria scenes. For viewers keen to take the plunge, streaming options for Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime, Max, Hulu, and Paramount+ are readily available under each entry, ensuring an uninterrupted viewing experience. 

High school TV shows offer more than just an exciting watch. They are a mirror to the kaleidoscope of teenage experiences, capturing the unvarnished truth of adolescent life within their frames. Each episode is a tapestry of tangled emotions, challenging decisions, and poignant moments that are intrinsic to one’s high school journey. Binge-watching these series is not only a delightful pastime but also a walk through the tumultuous yet rewarding journey of adolescence. So, brace yourself for a rollercoaster of drama, comedy, romance, and nostalgia as you delve into these high school dramas.