Apartments near Stanford University, San Francisco

Finding the right place to live is a big part of the student experience at Stanford. On-campus housing is limited and fills up quickly, which is why many students turn to off-campus housing near Stanford University for more freedom and choice. From private studios and shared flats to larger spaces for group living, there’s a wide range of student housing near Stanford University designed to fit different preferences and budgets. Choosing off-campus living also means easier access to the city’s lively lifestyle while still staying close to campus resources.

Founded in 1885, Stanford University is one of the world’s most prestigious institutions, known for its cutting-edge research, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit. Its location in California’s Bay Area puts students at the heart of Silicon Valley, surrounded by opportunities in tech, business, and culture. Beyond academics, living in the region gives students a chance to enjoy diverse neighbourhoods, exciting food scenes, and countless cultural attractions. Many even explore nearby San Francisco for housing, where a mix of options makes it easier to find the right balance between city life and campus access. If you’re curious about where students often settle, this guide to the best neighbourhoods in San Francisco gives a great overview of areas worth checking out.
With amber, finding apartments near Stanford University San Francisco becomes a straightforward process. Whether you’re after modern studios, shared living, or the best student housing near Stanford University, you’ll find options that combine convenience, community, and comfort.

Founded in 1885, Stanford University is a private research university located in Stanford, California, near San Francisco. It serves over 17,000 undergraduate and 9,900 graduate students across a wide range of disciplines and is renowned for its academic excellence, entrepreneurial culture, and close ties to Silicon Valley.

1. Offers approximately 150 degree programs, including undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral options across schools of Humanities & Sciences, Engineering, Business, Earth, Energy & Environmental Sciences, Law, Medicine, and Education.
2. Acceptance rate hovers around 3.6 to 4%, making it one of the most selective universities in the United States.
3. Regularly ranks among the top 5 universities globally in various rankings (e.g., QS, Times Higher Education, U.S. News).
4. Student-to-faculty ratio is roughly 5:1, supporting close interaction and mentorship.
5. Four-year graduation and retention are very strong; most undergraduates complete in 4 to 5 years and career outcomes are excellent, with many heading into tech, finance, or research.
6. Offers popular majors including computer science, engineering, economics, biology, psychology, and management. Located on a compact but lush campus spanning the Bay Area region, Stanford provides state-of-the-art labs, design studios, research centers, and access to cultural and innovation hubs in nearby San Francisco and Silicon Valley.

Finding the right student housing near Stanford University plays a huge role in shaping student life. Since on-campus options often fill up quickly, many students explore off-campus housing near Stanford University for more flexibility and independence. From shared apartments for those who enjoy community living to private studios for students who prefer their own space, the area offers plenty of choices.

Proximity to campus, safe neighbourhoods, and convenient access to cafes, libraries, and transit are all important factors when looking for apartments near Stanford University San Francisco. The good news is, amber makes this process simple by curating verified listings of student apartments in San Francisco and the wider Bay Area. Whether you’re searching for affordable apartments for rent near Stanford University or the best student apartments in San Francisco, amber helps students find housing that fits their lifestyle and budget with ease.

Studying at Stanford University in Stanford, California, requires careful financial planning. Before searching for apartments near Stanford University San Francisco or exploring student housing in San Francisco, it's helpful to understand the average monthly expenses students typically incur. The average monthly rent for students varies depending on the type of accommodation and its proximity to campus. Here is the breakdown:
1. Average Monthly Rent: £2,000–£3,500 per month for private apartments
2. Utilities & Wi-Fi: Approximately £100–£150 per month.
3. Food & Groceries: Around £200–£300 per month.
4. Transportation: A monthly Caltrain pass costs about £90.
5. Dining Out & Social: Budgeting £100–£150 per month is typical.
6. Leisure & Miscellaneous: Approximately £60–£120 per month.
7. Mobile & Personal Expenses: Around £50–£100 per month

Living in student housing near Stanford University offers students convenient access to the Bay Area's extensive public transportation system. The region provides a blend of efficient transit options, bike-friendly routes, and walkable neighborhoods, making it easy for students to navigate both academic commitments and leisure activities. Whether residing on-campus or in nearby apartments near Stanford University San Francisco, students can enjoy seamless connectivity to various parts of the city.
1. Caltrain: The Palo Alto Caltrain Station is approximately a 10-minute walk from campus, connecting students to San Francisco, San Jose, and other key areas. A one-way fare is $3.50, and students can benefit from discounted monthly passes available through the Clipper Card. Caltrain operates frequently, ensuring reliable service for daily commutes.
2. Bus Services: Several SamTrans and VTA bus routes serve the area around Stanford University, providing direct access to neighborhoods like Menlo Park, Palo Alto, and Mountain View. The standard bus fare is $2.50, with options for discounted passes.
3. Cycling: The Bay Area is a bike-friendly region with numerous dedicated bike lanes and bike-sharing programs. Students residing in Stanford University off-campus housing can take advantage of the Bay Wheels program, which offers affordable bike rentals. Monthly memberships are available, providing unlimited 30-minute rides, making cycling a convenient option for short trips around the city.
4. Walking and Rideshares: Many Stanford student apartments are within walking distance of campus, allowing students to easily commute on foot. For longer distances or late-night travel, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are readily accessible, offering a convenient and safe mode of transportation.

Student Transit Tip: Students can save money by obtaining a Clipper Card, which covers unlimited rides on Caltrain, SamTrans, and VTA services no need to tap extra or pay fares. This card simplifies the payment process and ensures cost-effective travel throughout the Bay Area.