Karen Nibbi
May 2026
We had looked at other places and after 60 years in Burlingame we visited the Stratford and it was love at first sight. How wonderful and we are so pleased with everything about it. A great choice.
The Stratford
601 Laurel Ave
4.9(34 ratings)· San Mateo average: 4.5
1 / 5Quick Facts
- Total units
- 96
- Licensed capacity
- 96 residents
- Licensed operator
- Sunrise Stratford Gp & LP
- Ownership model
- Residents purchase condominiums rather than rent
- Community type
- Continuing Care Retirement Community with rehab support
- Safety certification
- Holds WELL Equity and Health-Safety Ratings
California CDSS
What Families Think
Reviewers consistently describe The Stratford as a well-maintained, spacious, and socially active community where residents and visitors feel warmly welcomed by long-tenured staff. Families and residents highlight the large condo-style units, cleanliness, and central San Mateo location as standout features. No published pricing or specific care-staffing details are available for direct comparison.
The Good
- Large 2- and 3-bedroom condo-style units
- Long-tenured, attentive and caring staff
- Central San Mateo location near shops and park
- Active social calendar and engaged resident community
- Clean, well-maintained, hotel-like interior finishes
AI-generated from reviews and community data.
About The Stratford
The Stratford is a Continuing Care Retirement Community in San Mateo, California, offering independent living and assisted living in an 11-story high-rise. Residents purchase spacious condominiums, including some of the largest two- and three-bedroom independent living spaces in the Bay Area, and enjoy a maintenance-free lifestyle with attentive services.
The community provides a range of care services designed to support residents as their needs evolve. Assisted living services include medication management and help with dressing, bathing, and grooming. The Stratford also offers individualized rehabilitative care for current residents recovering from illness, hospitalization, or surgery.
The community features elegant amenities and a robust social calendar, including a rooftop garden with sweeping San Francisco views, water aerobics classes, live music events, and a jacuzzi. Residents enjoy easy access to cultural activities such as symphony performances and local dining, as The Stratford is nestled within two blocks of downtown San Mateo.
The Stratford has earned the WELL Equity Rating and WELL Health-Safety Rating, reflecting its commitment to creating inclusive and safe environments for residents and team members.
Types of Care
Assisted Living
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Help Me ChooseReviews
4.9overall · 34 ratings combined
4.9★ on Google (34)
Young Kim
Dec 2025
I have been a very happy resident of the Stratford for 8 years. All the staffs are very well trained and attentive to the need of the residents. We have a very capable and caring leadership team. The atmosphere at the Stratford is very warm and congenial with full activity programs.
Jamie Hock
Aug 2025
We have held a few of our Auxiliary meetings at The Stratford this year. Beautiful facility, and we were warmly welcomed by all staff. They were kind enough to provide us with indoor and outdoor spaces for our meetings, and included a table full of fresh fruit and pastries, plus coffee and tea. The staff were very accommodating and friendly. I look forward to more occasions at The Stratford in 2026!!
Camille Christie
Jan 2025
The Stratford is a special senior living community for many reasons but the foremost being the below. Many engaged and active residents from different backgrounds who are involved in continuing to make The Stratford a great place to live . The building itself was built to the highest standards and has stood the taste of time. The upkeep has been stellar and the size of the units are some of the largest in the Peninsula with many 2 and 3 bedrooms to choose from. The marble counters and floors, hardwood floors, Japanese screen art, live orchids, and many other touches make you think you are pulling up to a hotel. The team there is the heart and soul of the building and many folks have been there for over 20 years. They perform their jobs with compassion, authenticity, and create a familial like atmosphere. I cannot recommend it highly enough for those looking to purchase a condo in an engaged and active senior living community.
anne spanier
Dec 2024
I have lived at the Stratford for 5 years and can say it is the loveliest senior/assisted living facility That I know of. The beauty and cleanliness are evident. The staff that maintain it are exceptional. The dinning room is another excellent beautifully appointed and managed feature. The apartments are larger than similar facilities in the area adding to its charm. All of these qualities managed to stay functional in spite of two years of COVID induced problems.The Stratford is also beautifully situated in central San Mateo making it convenient for residents to shop, bank and walk through the Central Park for restful days. The Stratford’s many activities are perfect for its friendly outgoing and active residents.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of care does The Stratford offer?
The Stratford offers Assisted Living.
Where is The Stratford located?
The Stratford is located at 601 Laurel Ave in San Mateo, California.
What do families say about The Stratford?
Reviewers consistently describe The Stratford as a well-maintained, spacious, and socially active community where residents and visitors feel warmly welcomed by long-tenured staff. Families and residents highlight the large condo-style units, cleanliness, and central San Mateo location as standout features. No published pricing or specific care-staffing details are available for direct comparison.
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Nearby Communities
Other senior living options within 25 miles of San Mateo.
