Lismore is a significant educational center in the Northern Rivers region, home to Southern Cross University (SCU), a leading institution offering a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Established in 1994, SCU's Lismore campus provides degrees in fields such as business and law, tourism, humanities and social sciences, creative and performing arts, education, environmental and marine sciences, engineering, health and human sciences, law, and Indigenous studies. The university attracts students from more than 80 countries around the world, making it a diverse and globally connected institution. In addition to its Lismore base, SCU has campuses in Coffs Harbour, NSW, and the Gold Coast, QLD.

Lismore's education offerings extend to a wide range of public and private schools, catering to students from kindergarten through to secondary education. Notable institutions include:

• Albert Park Public School
• Blue Hills College
• Kadina High Campus
• Lismore High Campus
• Lismore Public School
• Lismore South Public School
• Living School Lismore
• Our Lady Help of Christians Catholic Primary School
• Richmond River High Campus
• St Carthage's Catholic Primary School
• St John's College, Woodlawn
• Summerland Christian College
• Trinity Catholic College, Lismore
• Vistara Primary School

These schools offer a mix of public, private, Catholic, and Christian education, providing a variety of learning environments for families across the region. The presence of Southern Cross University adds a higher education dimension, making Lismore an attractive destination for students seeking diverse academic opportunities and a vibrant campus life.