The quality of education in the county is excellent.

Sixteen public school districts provide educational programs. Because of the county's growth, the school districts are expanding and renovating both buildings and curriculum. In addition, the Lancaster Lebanon Intermediate Unit 13 provides special education programs and services for the educationally handicapped and for elementary gifted students. There are also a variety of private and parochial schools located in the area.

Three vocational technical schools located throughout the county provide opportunities for those interested in working in the trades or pursuing a technical education.

On the collegiate level, Lancaster offers an excellent choice of institutions of higher education. Franklin and Marshall College, located in the city, is one of the oldest colleges in the country. Millersville University and Elizabethtown College also have a long-standing place in the community. In addition, there are several branch campuses, a technology college and Bible colleges.