Stanford

Stanford is a university-centered community in Santa Clara County, California, covering residential neighborhoods and campus facilities across roughly 2.8 square miles. The settlement sits in a flat area near San Francisco Bay and consists mostly of low-rise buildings and green spaces.

Settlement of the area began in the late 19th century with the founding of the university on former farmland. The community grew gradually and took its present shape as an academic enclave during the 20th century.

The place takes its name from the university founder and now serves mainly as home to students and academic staff. The streets often fill with bicycles and you see many young adults moving between lectures and libraries.

The community is accessible via several main roads and lies near major regional routes. Those traveling by bicycle will find paths and flat terrain throughout.

The community sits at an elevation of just 95 feet (29 meters) above sea level, making it one of California's flattest academic settlements. Many streets carry names of trees and plants rather than historical figures.

Location: Santa Clara County

Elevation above the sea: 29 m

Shares border with: Menlo Park, Palo Alto

GPS coordinates: 37.42411,-122.16608

Latest update: December 15, 2025 00:13