Calista Kay Flockhart was born in Freeport, Illinois, to Kay Calista, a school teacher, and Ronald Flockhart, a Kraft Foods executive. Her birth marked the beginning of a life that would eventually lead to a successful acting career.

Due to her father's job, the family moved frequently throughout Calista's childhood, living in Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, and New Jersey. This exposure to different environments likely contributed to her adaptability and understanding of diverse perspectives, qualities useful for an actress.

Flockhart attended Shawnee High School in Medford Township, New Jersey. During her time there, she was active in the school's drama club, participating in various productions. This early involvement solidified her interest in performing arts.

Flockhart attended Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey, where she majored in theatre arts. Her time at Rutgers provided formal training in acting, and it's believed that during this time she shared classes with future actress Jane Krakowski. She actively participated in plays.

Upon completing her studies at Rutgers, Calista continued her acting studies at the William Esper Studio. This experience likely refined her craft and provided her with the tools and techniques necessary to navigate the competitive world of professional acting.