Best States for Homeschooling in the US: A Comprehensive Guide

Choosing to homeschool your child is a big decision. It can be even more daunting when you realize that homeschooling laws are different in every state! It can be really confusing trying to figure out all the different homeschooling laws in each state.

The good news is that some states are much more homeschool-friendly than others! They have clear and simple laws, minimal regulations, and supportive communities that make homeschooling a joy.

In this blog, we'll explore some of the best states for homeschooling in the U.S. and discuss the factors that make them ideal for homeschooling families. This information will help you understand how to match your child's learning needs with what your state offers. 

Key Takeaways

• Arizona, Texas, and Indiana lead with flexible laws and strong homeschool funding.

• Oklahoma and Alaska offer near-zero regulation with state-funded programs.

• Minnesota and Louisiana balance structure with solid tax breaks.

• New Jersey's homeschool tax credits are pending legislative approval.

• Homeschool community networks thrive nationwide, offering robust support and co-ops.

What is Homeschooling, and How Does It Differ in Different States

Homeschooling is an educational approach where parents or guardians take direct responsibility for their child's learning, often outside the traditional school environment. Instead of attending public or private schools, homeschooled students learn at home through personalized lessons, online courses, community programs, or hands-on activities.

However, homeschooling doesn’t look the same across the United States. Each state sets its own rules and regulations. Some states, like Texas and Alaska, offer greater freedom with minimal reporting. Others, like New York or Pennsylvania, require detailed paperwork, curriculum approval, and regular assessments.

Here is a quick overview of the states based on which one has the highest and lowest regulation:

No notice - Low regulation

• Alaska

• Idaho

• Wyoming

• lowa

• Michigan

• Missouri

• Illinois

• Indiana

• New Jersey

• Connecticut

• Oklahoma

• Texas

• Puerto Rico 

• Guam

Notice required - Low regulation

• Montana

• South Dakota

• Wisconsin

• California

• Nevada

• Utah

• Arizona

• Colorado

• New Mexico

• Nebraska

• Kansas

• Ohio

• Arkansas

• Kentucky

• Maryland

• Tennessee

• Louisiana

• Missisippi

• Alabama

• Georgia

• Florida

Moderate regulation

• Washington

• Oregon

• North Dakota

• Minnesota 

• Vermont

• New Hamsphire 

• Maine

• West Virginia

• Virginia

• North Carolina

• South Carolina

• Hawaii

High regulation

• New York

• Pennsylvania

• Massachusetts

• Rhode Island

• American Samoa 

Now that you know what to look for in a homeschool-friendly state, let's explore some of the top contenders that offer the best environments for homeschooling families.

Top 10 Best States for Homeschooling 

In the U.S., some states have established environments and regulations that are particularly supportive of homeschooling families. Let's take a closer look at what makes these states stand out.

1. Arizona

Arizona stands out as an excellent state for homeschooling thanks to its flexible laws, financial incentives, and vibrant support networks. With minimal government oversight, generous funding options, and a rich tapestry of co‑ops and enrichment programs, homeschooling families in Arizona enjoy both freedom and community.

Regulation for Homeschooling:

• Parents file a one-time, notarized Affidavit of Intent with the county superintendent (for kids aged 6–16).

• No yearly re-filing, testing, or curriculum approval required.

• Required subjects: reading, grammar, math, science, and social studies.

• No need to submit lesson plans, attendance records, or teacher qualifications.

• Parents have full flexibility to choose the curriculum and teaching style.

Tax Benefits:

• Arizona offers Empowerment Scholarship Accounts (ESAs)—families receive ~$6,500+ per child per year.

• ESA funds can be used for curriculum, tutors, online classes, and educational supplies.

• Families using ESA technically enroll as “non-public school” students, but learning happens at home.

• State allows tax credits for donations to school tuition organizations, indirectly supporting educational expenses.

• These financial supports reduce the overall cost of homeschooling significantly.

Homeschool Community Support:

• AFHE (Arizona Families for Home Education) organizes major homeschool events and provides statewide support.

• Large and active co-ops across Phoenix, Tucson, and other regions offer classes, clubs, and meetups.

• Local co-ops include Summit View, Branches Surprise, and ALTUS Academy.

• Many groups provide weekly activities like field trips, enrichment classes, and social events.

• Both secular and faith-based support networks are available, catering to diverse family values.

2. Indiana

Indiana is a great choice for homeschooling due to its minimal oversight, valuable financial incentives, and active support networks. With no mandatory registration, a generous tax deduction, and a variety of local co‑ops and resources, Indiana makes homeschooling flexible, affordable, and community-driven.

Regulation for Homeschooling:

• No requirement to file notice or register with the state, parents are free to begin teaching at home whenever.

• No mandated subjects, standardized testing, attendance records, or teacher qualifications, families set their own academic paths .

• Compulsory school ages are 7 to 18; homeschooling covers this entire range without extra state demands.

• Legislation (HB 1348) confirms that homeschool diplomas are equivalent to those from accredited schools for state institutions.

• While a bill (SB 483) may introduce future oversight for specific absences, it’s still pending and not yet in effect.

Tax Benefits:

• Indiana offers a $1,000 state income tax deduction per homeschooled child for educational expenses.

• No income or family income limits, and multiple children qualify; the deduction simply multiplies per child .

• In 2022, nearly 58,000 families used it, averaging a $1,840 deduction, about 17% of public school per-student spending.

• Claimed via Schedule 2 on the Indiana tax return; no need to register the homeschool, just note expenses .

Homeschool Community Support:

• Indiana has a strong network of homeschool organizations offering conventions, legal updates, and community outreach .

• HSLDA actively monitors legislation impacting homeschool freedoms and hosts webinars, e.g., a January 2025 event on emerging regulations (Closed now).

• Local co-ops and enrichment groups provide classes, field trips, social events, and extracurriculars across urban and rural areas.

3. Illinois

Illinois offers flexibility and a valuable tax credit, making it increasingly attractive for homeschooling families. 

Regulation for Homeschooling:

• Currently no obligation to notify the district or register with the state; Illinois remains one of the few states with minimal oversight.

• Required subjects: language arts, math, biological & physical science, social studies, fine arts, health/PE, but no proof or testing unless under investigation.

• A pending “Homeschool Act” (HB 2827) would change this, requiring annual notification, evidence of instructor credentials (high school diploma or equivalent), and production of portfolios if questioned.

• As of June 2025, HB 2827 failed to pass and is not law; homeschooling remains unregulated for now.

Tax Benefits:

• Illinois allows a K–12 Education Expense Credit up to $750 per family.

• Credit covers 25% of qualifying educational expenses beyond the first $250, tuition, book fees, lab fees; homeschool materials qualify under ISBE definitions.

• Income caps: AGI $500K (married) or $250K (single); credits are non-refundable and depend on tax liability.

• In 2023, about 203,000 taxpayers claimed this credit, averaging $322 each, a real boost for homeschool budgets.

Homeschool Community Support:

• A vibrant community exists with statewide associations like the Illinois Christian Home Educators and ICHE advocating strongly; in 2025, tens of thousands rallied against HB 2827.

• Numerous local co‑ops and enrichment groups offer classes, field trips, and social events across urban and rural regions.

• Graduates transition via dual-credit programs at community colleges, gaining college-level classes while homeschooling.

4. Louisiana

Louisiana shines as a homeschooling haven, combining structured flexibility, generous financial support, and rich community networks. 

 Regulation for Homeschooling:

• Two homeschooling options: BESE‑Approved Home Study Program or Nonpublic School Not Seeking State Approval.

• BESE‑Approved: submit initial and renewal applications, demonstrate "sustained curriculum, equal to public schools," and comply with 180 days & 900–990 hours/year.

• Nonpublic School: file notification of intent, submit birth certificate copy, maintain attendance records; no state testing required.

• Minimum required subjects: English, math, science, social studies; teens (9–12) also need health, PE, fine arts, foreign language.

• No teacher-certification rule; parents retain full instructional control

Tax Benefits:

• State income tax deduction up to 50% for educational expenses per child, up to $6,000 annually.

• Eligible expenses include textbooks, curricula, instructional materials; excludes extracurricular fees like sports or band.

• Deduction claimed via Schedule E on Form IT‑540; requires proof of BESE approval for Home Study option.

 Homeschool Community Support:

• Homeschool Louisiana statewide network connects families with mentors, conventions, and legislative updates.

• Numerous regional co-ops: Credo (Shreveport), Connections of Acadiana (Lafayette), Cornerstone (Baton Rouge), Raising Arrows (Hammond)—offering weekly classes, park days, and field trips.

• SERVE Homeschool Outreach (Metairie/New Orleans) hosts enrichment programs including science labs, arts, PE, and group outings.

• Christian and secular options are available statewide; communities run social events, co‑instruction, and resource sharing.

5. Minnesota

Minnesota makes a strong option for homeschooling thanks to its balanced mix of structure and flexibility. Families can choose between homeschooling under state guidance or registering as a nonpublic school.

Regulation for Homeschooling:

• Two options: homeschool under state law (notify and test) or register as a nonpublic school, giving families administrative flexibility.

• If choosing state homeschool path, parents must submit Letter of Intent to local superintendent by October 1 (or within 15 days after withdrawal) for children ages 7–17.

• Annual standardized tests are required unless the homeschool is accredited through the Home-Based Educators Accrediting Association.

• Parents or appointed instructors must meet qualifications, teaching license, bachelor’s degree, accreditation, or superintendent approval.

• Detailed recordkeeping is legally required, including attendance logs, curriculum outlines, materials, and test results, stored for at least two years.

Tax Benefits:

• Minnesota offers both a K–12 Education Subtraction and Credit for homeschool expenses, reducing state taxable income.

• Qualified expenses include textbooks, curricula, instructor fees, music lessons (during school hours), educational computer hardware/software, but not extracurricular or internet.

• No income caps on the subtraction, while the credit is limited; proper documentation via receipts and worksheets is essential.

• Homeschoolers may also claim a sales tax exemption on qualifying educational purchases by filing for nonprofit status and using a Certificate of Exemption.

Homeschool Community Support:

• Multiple statewide associations: Minnesota Homeschoolers’ Alliance, Minnesota Association of Christian Home Educators, offering legislative updates, trainings, and legal support.

• Numerous local co-ops in areas like Twin Cities and rural towns provide weekly classes, field trips, sports, and labs, promoting social interaction.

• Homeschoolers can access public school resources like sports, extracurriculars, special education services, and libraries.

6. Ohio

Ohio combines structured simplicity and practical benefits for homeschooling families. Its clear notification process, modest tax credit, and access to public school resources make it an attractive option. 

Regulation for Homeschooling:

• Parents must notify their local school district superintendent within 5 days of starting home education and annually by August 30, with their name, child's info, and subjects to be taught.

• Required subjects include English language arts, math, science, history, government, and social studies; no specific hours or lesson plans mandated.

• There are no state tests or portfolio reviews unless the district requests them.

• Homeschool students retain eligibility for public school sports and activities and can earn dual enrollment for college credit via College Credit Plus .

Tax Benefits:

• Ohio provides a non-refundable K–12 Home Education Tax Credit of up to $250 per family for qualifying homeschool expenses like books, supplies, and subscriptions.

• Qualifying expenses include curriculum materials, educational software, and school supplies, as outlined on tax forms .

• Details and required documentation (receipts, worksheets) must be filed with Ohio income tax returns .

Homeschool Community Support:

• Ohio hosts active homeschooling organizations like CHEO (Christian Home Educators of Ohio) and Sonlight’s Ohio Network, offering events, mentoring, and local group connections.

• Families benefit from welcoming co‑ops in urban and rural areas, offering classes, field trips, sports, and labs.

• Homeschoolers enjoy access to public school electives, athletics, and special education evaluations. 

7. Oklahoma

Oklahoma offers homeschooling families a unique blend of freedom, financial support, and strong grassroots backing. The state has nearly zero mandatory oversight, a refundable tax credit, and a vibrant homeschool ecosystem.

Regulation for Homeschooling:

• Parents are not required to register or notify state/local officials when homeschooling.

• No mandated subjects, standardized testing, lesson plans, attendance logs, or teacher qualifications .

• Homeschooling covers ages 5–18, fulfilling compulsory education requirements.

• Homeschooled students are exempt from public school oversight unless they return to the system, where standardized tests may apply.

Tax Benefits:

• Oklahoma offers a refundable tax credit of up to $1,000 per homeschooled student annually.

• Qualified expenses include online programs, tutoring, textbooks, curricula, and standardized test fees.

• Credit is refundable, meaning excess credit beyond tax liability is returned as cash or debit.

• Claimed via Form 591-D with receipts; rules and caps apply per student per year

Homeschool Community Support:

• Oklahoma has one of the country’s largest homeschool populations—about 7%–8% of students in 2023–24, with a long tradition since 1907.

• Homeschool Oklahoma (HSOK) actively advocates, educates, and alerts families to legislative developments.

• Numerous local groups organize co-ops, field trips, social events, and extracurriculars, serving diverse secular and faith-based communities .

8. Alaska

Alaska stands out for homeschooling with expansive freedom, valuable funding options, and strong community presence. Families enjoy multiple flexible educational pathways, access to public resources, and a supportive network.

Regulation for Homeschooling:

• Alaska offers four homeschooling options: independent statute, correspondence programs, private school enrollment, or certified tutor guidance.

• Under the independent statute, there's no notice, testing, subject mandates, or curriculum approval, parents simply teach at home

• The correspondence option, such as IDEA or Raven, requires a written learning plan, monthly contact, a 180-day calendar, and participation in state assessments

Tax Benefits:

• Alaska doesn’t provide direct homeschool tax credits, but independent homeschoolers miss out on public funding.

• Correspondence program participants receive a Homeschool Allotment, approximately $2,700 per student in 2024–25, for approved expenses.

• The funding is reimbursed via receipts, covering curriculum, supplies, technology, field trips, and tutoring.

• While Alaska’s Education Tax Credit aids businesses donating to schools, it’s not directly available to homeschooling families.

Homeschool Community Support:

• Alaska’s homeschooling community is tight-knit, with statewide support from HSLDA and local correspondence providers.

• Correspondence programs like IDEA Homeschool and Raven support families with curriculum, structure, and enrichment opportunities.

• Rural districts often run resource centers, like Tenakee Springs School, offering classes, libraries, and social interaction.

9. New Jersey

New Jersey offers homeschool families strong autonomy, emerging financial incentives, and community advocacy. With minimal state oversight and potential tax credits on the horizon, it’s one of the best states for homeschooling.

Regulation for Homeschooling:

• Under N.J.S.A. 18A:38‑25, parents must provide “equivalent instruction elsewhere” but no formal notification is required, unless requested by the district.

• No mandated testing, attendance records, curriculum approval, or teacher credentials; families are accountable only if challenged by the board .

• Annual immunization records are required, as with public school students.

• Pending legislation (Bills A1530/S1799) would introduce a gross income tax credit for homeschool expenses, up to $2,500–$3,000 per child, depending on income and needs.

Tax Benefits:

• No current statewide tax credit, but Bills A1530/S1799 (under review) would allow up to $2,500 per child, or $7,500 per household, plus $1,000 extra per special-needs child.

• Eligible expenses include textbooks, curricula, educational software, and membership fees for libraries or academic organizations.

• Credit phases are tied to gross income caps (e.g., under $260K for assembly bill; $150K for senate version) and are non-refundable, meaning it can reduce tax liability but won’t generate a refund beyond what’s owed.

Homeschool Community Support:

• Robust support from groups like the New Jersey Homeschool Association (NJHA), offering conferences, county-level meetups, and advocacy.

• The A1041 bill seeks statewide access to extracurricular activities; currently, district-by-district policies apply; advocates are pushing for uniform participation rights.

• Public libraries and district schools frequently offer part-time resources (textbooks, after-school clubs, vocational programs via shared-time vocational schools)

10. Texas

Texas offers homeschooling families a winning combination: legal clarity, minimal government oversight, growing financial support, and robust community backing.

Regulation for Homeschooling:

• Homeschooling in Texas is legally defined as a private school, established by the 1994 Leeper v. Arlington ISD ruling; no compulsory attendance enforcement applies.

• Only basic requirements: instruction must be bona fide, in visual form, and cover reading, spelling, grammar, mathematics, and “good citizenship”.

• No need to file notice, register, maintain attendance records, conduct testing, or meet teacher qualification standards 

Tax Benefits:

• While Texas does not yet offer tax credits specifically for homeschools, recent legislation has changed the landscape.

• SB 2, signed April 2025, establishes a $2,000 ESA (Educational Savings Account) per homeschool student, usable for textbooks, tutoring, dual credit, therapy, and more—no testing required.

• Though funds are limited and allocated by lottery, homeschooled students are eligible equally, and $2,000 is provided without losing legal autonomy .

• Additionally, vouchers for private or homeschooling average $10,900 per student, with $2,000 designated for homeschool use .

Homeschool Community Support:

• The Texas Home School Coalition (THSC) is a robust statewide organization offering resources, co-op listings, legal advocacy, and annual conventions.

• Texas has 500,000–620,000 homeschoolers, making up 8–10% of students statewide.

• Local co-ops like Faith Co-op, CenTex Christian Homeschool, North Texas Homeschool Educators Network, and online groups provide academic classes, field trips, social events, and athletic opportunities.

  
  

State	Regulation Level	Tax Benefits	Homeschool Community Strength
Arizona	Low	ESA funds (~$6,500+); tax credits	Strong, well-organized
Indiana	Low	$1,000 state income tax deduction	Active statewide & local co-ops
Illinois	Low	K–12 expense credit (up to $750)	Moderate but growing
Louisiana	Moderate	50% deduction up to $6,000/student	Active, regionally diverse
Minnesota	Moderate	K–12 credit & subtraction	Well-structured and widespread
Ohio	Low	$250 non-refundable tax credit	Large, supportive groups
Oklahoma	Very Low	$1,000 refundable tax credit	Strong grassroots network
Alaska	Very Low	Up to ~$2,700 funding via state programs	Tight-knit, rural-friendly
New Jersey	Low	Tax credit bills pending (2025)	Advocating, community expanding
Texas	Very Low	$2,000 ESA (new 2025)	Very strong & widespread

The best states for homeschooling offer more than just freedom; they provide a balance of supportive laws, financial relief, and thriving communities. Whether you're drawn to the open flexibility of Texas or the financial perks in Indiana and Arizona, these states empower families to create meaningful, customized learning journeys at home.

Homeschooling with The School House Anywhere (TSHA)

The School House Anywhere (TSHA) is an educational program designed to provide high-quality, flexible, and portable learning experiences for homeschooling families, micro-schools, and education entrepreneurs. 

TSHA offers a comprehensive, developmentally aligned curriculum grounded in the American Emergent Curriculum (AEC). The AEC, developed by TSHA, is a hands-on educational framework for Pre-K to 6th grade. It connects subjects in real-world ways, encouraging children to explore, think creatively, and solve problems.

With us, you will get: 

• TSHA Educator Film Library:  300 How-to Teaching & Informational films.

• Custom AEC printable materials & worksheets.

• Access to our Online Progress, Organizing & Portfolio Management Tool: Transparent Classroom.

• TSHA Materials Boxes* (optional to purchase)

• Digital TSHA Welcome Box to get you started!

• Access to TSHA Member Site

• LIVE Educator & Founder Online Gatherings weekly with Q&A session (Recorded & posted for future reference!)

• Live scheduled office hours

• Parent / Educator online social media network & support

Also, we do not support AI for students, but we believe in the power of AI. So, we offer AI-supported services only for parents and teachers to make their teaching process smooth and time-efficient! 

Wrapping Up

As you've seen, homeschooling regulations vary greatly from state to state. Some states offer a wealth of freedom and flexibility, while others have more regulations and requirements. Choosing the right state for your homeschooling journey can make a big difference in your experience and your child's educational success. By researching your options and understanding the homeschooling laws in different states, you can find the perfect place to create a thriving learning environment for your child.

Visit The School House Anywhere today to learn more and discover how we can support your homeschooling adventure!

FAQs

1. Can families homeschool while traveling between states in the U.S.?

Yes, families who travel frequently (also called “roadschoolers”) can homeschool legally. However, they should comply with the homeschooling laws of their permanent legal residence. Keeping records like affidavits and attendance helps avoid legal confusion when crossing state lines.

2. Do military families have different homeschooling rules when relocating between states?

Military families follow the homeschooling laws of their state of legal domicile, not necessarily where they are stationed. Organizations like the Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) offer resources tailored for military homeschoolers. States such as Texas and Virginia are popular choices among military families for homeschooling.

3. Are homeschool diplomas recognized for college admissions across all U.S. states?

Yes, homeschool diplomas are legally recognized in all 50 states. Most colleges and universities accept homeschool transcripts and may ask for standardized test scores or course descriptions. States like Indiana and Texas explicitly protect the legal validity of homeschool diplomas.

4. Can homeschooled students participate in state scholarship or grant programs?

It depends on the state. Some states, like Florida and Georgia, allow homeschoolers to apply for merit-based scholarships. Others require standardized test scores or enrollment in a recognized educational program to qualify for state financial aid.