Choosing where to live at Stanford shapes your time on “the Farm,” whether you’re heading to your bachelor ceremony, working toward a master’s project, or preparing for your doctoral regalia. Stanford offers historic undergrad dorms organized by college and modern graduate communities like Escondido Village and Kennedy Residences.
This CAPGOWN guide highlights 5 undergraduate options—Branner Hall, Crothers Hall, Florence Moore Hall (“FloMo”), Toyon Hall, Row Houses—and 4 graduate options—Escondido Village Low‑Rises, EVGR (Escondido Graduate Residences), Kennedy Graduate Residences, and Oak Creek Apartments. With Reddit commentary, fun facts, and student-favorite features, it helps you pick the right fit.
Branner Hall – Traditional, Central & All‑Freshmen
Address: 655 Escondido Rd, Stanford, CA 94305
A historic dorm rebuilt for freshmen under the neighborhood system. Known for strong social floors and classic architecture.
Why CAPGOWN Students Love It:
- Super close to the Main Quad and dorm dining.
- Great for forming lifelong friendships in freshman year.
Fun Fact: Branner was used as an Olympic Village dorm during the 1984 Summer Olympics.
r/Stanford Says:
“Best freshman dorm for sure.”
“All‑frosh housing… majority do not branch out much past sophomore year.”
Crothers Hall – Largest Frosh Dorm & Community Hub
Address: Galvez Mall, Stanford, CA 94305
Once graduate housing, Crothers is now the biggest dorm for freshmen. It offers singles and doubles in coed wings.
Why CAPGOWN Students Love It:
- Tons of roommates, activities, and ease of meeting people.
- Nearly every resident is a fellow freshman.
Fun Fact: Though often ranked low in popularity, Crothers accommodates the most freshmen of any building.
r/Stanford Says:
“Crothers has got to be the worst housing option… followed by Stern, Wilbur, and FloMo.”
General mix: high capacity and chaotic social life.
Florence Moore Hall (FloMo) – Bright, Iconic & Communal
Address: Mayfield Ave, Stanford, CA 94305
FloMo includes seven interconnected houses centered around a dining hall and courtyard.
Why CAPGOWN Students Love It:
- Abundance of natural light, ice cream in every meal, and vibrant community.
- Part of Structured Liberal Education (SLE) in some houses.
Fun Fact: Known as the “ice cream dorm”—menus can offer up to eight flavors per meal.
r/Stanford Says:
“FloMo... all‑historic and interesting buildings.”
Mixed reviews—some enjoy community, others less so.
Toyon Hall – Quiet Upperclass Character & Classic Design
Address: 455 Arguello Way, Stanford, CA 94305
Upperclass residence with lower density and more privacy, housed in early 20th-century architecture.
Why CAPGOWN Students Love It:
- Medieval-style high ceilings and more singles.
- Lower traffic and close to engineering buildings.
Fun Fact: Toyon was once home to Stanford Eating Clubs and retains historic charm.
r/Stanford Says:
Less quoted—but often praised by upperclassmen seeking calmer dorm life.
The Row Houses – Independent, Close-Knit Community
36 student‑managed houses that blend Greek, co‑op, and self‑operated living, each with own culture and kitchen.Why CAPGOWN Students Love It:
- Personalized community and self-catered living.
- Greater autonomy and social choice than typical dorms.
Fun Fact: Stanford acquired all Row houses, including former Greek houses; many are self-ops with 30–60 residents..
r/Stanford Says:
"Often mentioned as a vibrant alternative to dorm living with strong purpose-driven groups."
Escondido Village Low-Rises – Spacious & Family-Friendly
Why CAPGOWN Grads Love It:
- Full kitchens, large units, access to Escondido School.
- Strong family-oriented community with quiet green space.
Fun Fact: Opened in the 1950s, these continue to house many with academic-aged children.
r/Stanford Says:
"Affectionate sentiment: many grad students lived here for years and appreciated the stability."
EVGR (Escondido Graduate Residences) – Modern Studios & Two‑Beds
Why CAPGOWN Grads Love It:
- Modern construction, good ventilation, and less crowding.
- Choice of studio or shared unit based on budget.
Fun Fact: EVGR buildings were completed within the last 5 years, significantly improving graduate housing quality.
r/Stanford Says:
" EVGR studio… I get by just fine… ventilation system is nice...”“Top rankings: EVGR junior/premium 2 bed/2 bath, EV studio…”
Kennedy Graduate Residences – Downtown Feel & Premium Studios
Why CAPGOWN Grads Love It:
- Premium layout with city views, supportive services on-site.
- Ideal for single grads or couples in need of quiet space.
Fun Fact: Mandatory Stanford shuttle stops here; central amenities include study rooms and lounges.
r/Stanford Says:
"Some grads remained on waitlists hoping for Kennedy higher-privilege assignments."
Oak Creek Apartments (leased off‑campus affiliate) – Resort‑Style Amenities
Why CAPGOWN Grads Love It:
- Private lease, resort amenities, quiet environment.
- Comparable proximity to campus, sometimes closer than low-rises.
Fun Fact: Oak Creek is officially affiliated with Stanford housing and filled by graduate students.
r/Stanford Says:
“Oak Creek Apartments are nice as hell… 5 pools, hot tub, gym and AC (unlike most options)…”
“Not that social, though.”
Final Thoughts
From historic freshman dorms like Branner and FloMo to modern graduate apartments like EVGR and Oak Creek, Stanford offers housing that suits every stage of academic life. Whether you're bonding in Crothers, exploring East Campus, or studying quietly in a grad studio, there’s a Stanford home to fit your aspirations.
When it's time to walk across the stage, CAPGOWN is honored to dress you. Our Stanford bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral regalia combine tradition, quality, and Cardinal pride. No matter where you lived, celebrate your journey in iconic style.
