$367,873Average Value$271Average Price per Sq Ft52Homes For Sale
Sanford’s mill history meets modern amenities
Beginning in 1867, textile mills were the backbone of Sanford’s economy, but in 1954, they shut down, and one-third of the population was out of work. The Maine community’s tribulations were detailed a year later in an NBC drama titled “The Town that Refused to Die” and in a 1965 Life magazine article under the same name. Today, the town’s resilient character remains, as many of these mills still stand, and a downtown factory is currently being developed into an apartment complex and commercial center. “The mills are really nostalgic for our town. Of course, they remind us of times we’ve struggled, but they’re viewed more as historical markers than anything else,” says Michael Patterson, a real estate agent with eXp Realty and a Sanford native. Aside from a growing downtown, Sanford residents can enjoy the area’s rural appeal, with ample locally owned farmstands and trails along the Mousam River, both easily accessible.
Sanford was once a giant in the textile industry.
Gateway Park offers a scenic overlook of the Mousam River dam and falls.
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Sanford is comprised of 1900s architecture and custom country estates
Dwellings closest to downtown Sanford are typically three-to-four-bedroom Queen Annes and bungalows from the early 1900s. Sitting on 5,000-square-foot lots, these homes feature alleyways or street parking. Homebuyers will find midcentury Cape Cod cottages and ranch styles farther from the city’s center. Colonial Revival farmhouses and custom-built country estates reside on parcels over 2 acres in the town’s rural outskirts. Buying in Sanford can cost anywhere between $300,000 and $650,000, a range lower than a Portland home’s average $500,000 selling price.
This classic Queen Ann home is in the Sanford.
Cape Cod style homes are common in Sanford.
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Students are in the Sanford School Department
Children in Sanford can attend Carl J. Lamb Elementary and Sanford Middle; both graded a C on Niche. The middle school has a robust STEM program with classes in engineering, 3D printing and more. Lastly, they may attend Sanford High School. Lending to its B-plus grade in sports, the school has an outdoor stadium, two gymnasiums and a fitness center, all constructed in 2018. Sanford Christian Academy on High Street is a private kindergarten through 12th grade option.
The entrance to Sanford High welcomes students in Sanford, Maine
Entrance to the Carl J. Lamb Elementary School in Springvale Maine
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Mousam River trails, a 1930s park and the Sanford Mainers baseball diamond
“The multi-trail system along Mousam River is really popular,” says Patterson. “It connects recreational places with residential areas and downtown Sanford.” Hikers can trek the historic walking path starting on Washington Street or head to Mousam Way South’s boardwalk route along Emery Street. Access to the 4-mile Mousam Way North Trail is at Sanford High School on Alumni Boulevard. The route passes the riverbank, the Riverside Cemetery and a kayak launch on School Street.
Picnickers can visit the 1930s stone gazebo at Gowen Memorial Park, a 20-acre green space with rolling terrain and Number One Pond access. Anglers can fish for largemouth bass, and kayakers can launch their boat from the small dock. A half-mile trek on the park’s trail leads to The Sanford Dog Park. Central Park is a pocket green space in the heart of downtown Sanford, and it hosts the Sanford Farmers Market every Saturday from May through October. Baseball fans can head to Goodall Park and watch the Sanford Mainers play other New England Collegiate Baseball League teams. In 1919, Babe Ruth hit his last home run with the Red Sox on this diamond.
The gazebo of Gowen Park is a great amenity in Sanford.
The Mousam Way Trail winds through Sanford.
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Local spots in downtown Sanford or farm fresh goods on the outskirts
With local spots like Wilbur G. Shaw Hardware and chains like the Hannaford grocery store, downtown Sanford has plenty of conveniences. Third Alarm Diner offers cozy digs, fried seafood, burgers and all-day breakfast. Foodies can also pick up Thai takeout from Mee-D or Vietnamese favorites from Pho Saigon. Outside of downtown, Shaw’s Ridge Farm is a popular summer destination for mini-golfing, barbecue platters and ice cream made with homegrown strawberries and lemons. Apple picking at McDougal Orchards on Hanson Ridge Road during the fall is another seasonal activity in Sanford. The eighth-generation farm also has a store filled with freshly made jellies, syrups and pickles.
Third Alarm Diner is a local favorite in Sanford.
Try the General Tso Shrimp at Pho Saigon in Sanford.
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Sanford residents are near Portland by car or bus
U.S. Route 202 runs through Sanford’s core, making Portland a 45-mile drive north. School Street is sprinkled with a few Biddeford Saco Old Orchard Beach Transit bus stops, offering a route to Portland’s Casco Bay coastline. Less than 5 miles west, Sanford Seacoast Regional Airport doesn’t provide any commercial flights, but pilots in training can get plenty of practice here.
Welcome to Sanford.
Route 202 runs through Sanford.
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Written By
Tina Davis
Video By
Timothy Cerva
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Scott Reiff Denise Reiff,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
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On average, homes in Sanford, ME sell after 31 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Sanford, ME over the last 12 months is $385,000, up 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to 7 Bateman Street in Sanford! This charming 2-bedroom, 1-bath ranch offers comfortable single-level living on approximately 0.24 acres. A standout feature is the large walk-out basement, providing abundant storage space with convenient exterior access and room for a workshop or hobbies. Outside, enjoy a spacious backyard with plenty of room for gardening, outdoor entertaining, or
Nestled in this wooded subdivision of Springvale, this sought-after condo features an open-concept kitchen and living area, ideal for entertaining. Upstairs, you'll find three bedrooms and a conveniently located laundry area. The primary suite boasts an en suite bath and walk-in closet, while a striking cathedral staircase connects the levels. The finished daylight basement includes a game room,
Nestled in this wooded subdivision of Springvale, this sought-after condo features an open-concept kitchen and living area, ideal for entertaining. Upstairs, you'll find three bedrooms and a conveniently located laundry area. The primary suite boasts an en suite bath and walk-in closet, while a striking cathedral staircase connects the levels. The finished daylight basement includes a game room,
Set on a welcoming Sanford street where mature trees and easy neighborly charm define the surroundings, this thoughtfully updated three-bedroom, two-bathroom home delivers exceptional value across roughly 2,100 square feet. Every corner reflects meaningful investment, making it a smart choice for buyers seeking quality without the premium price tag. Recent improvements run deep and practical.
Welcome to 7 Bateman Street in Sanford! This charming 2-bedroom, 1-bath ranch offers comfortable single-level living on approximately 0.24 acres. A standout feature is the large walk-out basement, providing abundant storage space with convenient exterior access and room for a workshop or hobbies. Outside, enjoy a spacious backyard with plenty of room for gardening, outdoor entertaining, or
Nestled in this wooded subdivision of Springvale, this sought-after condo features an open-concept kitchen and living area, ideal for entertaining. Upstairs, you'll find three bedrooms and a conveniently located laundry area. The primary suite boasts an en suite bath and walk-in closet, while a striking cathedral staircase connects the levels. The finished daylight basement includes a game room,
Quaint 55+ community; desirable Marsh Brook Estates! This beautifully maintained home has been recently updated. This home offers a split layout with a spacious primary suite on one end and 2 additional bedrooms and full bath on the other end. Open concept living and dining area is perfect for entertaining. Right off the eat-in dining area is the full laundry room with access to the charming back
The perfect blend of classic charm and modern convenience in this exceptional intown duplex. Property is in a great location with a thoughtful layout making it a standout opportunity for savvy investors or owner-occupants alike. Each of the units feature 2 comfortable bedrooms and a well-appointed bathroom, ensuring a high quality of living for all residents. The first-floor unit shines with
Escape to the peace and beauty of country living on this stunning 7+ acre property featuring a picturesque creek along the property line, a horse barn, and fenced pasture--perfect for equestrian enthusiasts or anyone seeking room to roam. Featuring a horse barn built in 2016 is 36'x60' with 4 (12'x12') stalls, water, electric, solar on southern roof, covers the monthly electric bill to roughly
Investment opportunity in the heart of Sanford! This spacious two-unit property features two 3-bedroom, 1-bath apartments, offering excellent income potential for investors or a great owner-occupied setup. With over 2,100 square feet of living space, a detached garage, and a corner-lot location, there is plenty of room for tenants, storage, and future improvements. Conveniently located near
Nestled in this wooded subdivision of Springvale, this sought-after condo features an open-concept kitchen and living area, ideal for entertaining. Upstairs, you'll find three bedrooms and a conveniently located laundry area. The primary suite boasts an en suite bath and walk-in closet, while a striking cathedral staircase connects the levels. The finished daylight basement includes a game room,
This beautiful two-story Cape-style end unit condo features an open-concept kitchen and living room, plus a first-floor bedroom with a full bath. Upstairs, you'll find two more bedrooms, a spacious guest bathroom, and laundry. Over the garage, there's a finished bonus room that could serve as a fourth bedroom. Highlights include an attached one-car garage, granite kitchen counters, plank flooring
Perfect INVESTMENT opportunity, renovated 4 Unit with three 2 BR and one 3 BR unit, seller renovated 3 units as they changed tenants, 4 brand new water heaters, ample parking, lots of extra storage opportunity in the full basement (the foundation cracks have been professionally addressed and repaired in July) Property had a new rolled roof in 2014 from previous owner and new electric panels in
A Piece of History to Call Home! This charming 1767 Cape beautifully blends timeless character with the updates and conveniences today's buyers are looking for. Filled with warmth and original charm, this inviting home offers 4 bedrooms plus a bonus room, giving you plenty of space for family, guests, a home office, or hobbies. Outside, the private backyard offers a wonderful place to unwind,
Barbara MarzoliKeller Williams Coastal and Lakes & Mountains Realty
BECOME A PART OF ITS HISTORY! Built in the 1800's it is a true gem from the past and has seen it all. Here's your chance to add to its story and create a nice home. 4-bedrooms, 1-bath, detached 2-car garage, and enclosed porch. Downtown Sanford is within walking distance where you can enjoy restaurants, parks, playgrounds, and shops.
Property Id: 2851461 COMING SOON — Brand-New Rental on Morris Street in Sanford! Available November 1st, 2026 Beautiful new-construction ranch offering approximately 2,080 sq. ft. of finished living space, with 1,040 sq. ft. on the main floor plus a full finished and heated basement. Features include 3 bedrooms, an open-concept kitchen, dining & living area, modern kitchen
Property Id: 2086050 Cozy 1 bed, 1 bath master suite in Sanford, ME available 10/01/2025. Features include dishwasher, washer/dryer, hardwood floors, garage, and off-street parking. All utilities included. The master suite is private space within a shared home. Close to parks with on-site laundry. Don't miss out on this gem! $1100/month.
Bright and charming 1-bedroom apartment in Sanford, Maine with beautiful hardwood floors, plenty of natural light, and a comfortable, spacious layout.The apartment features a full kitchen with lots of cabinet and counter space, a cozy living/dining area, and an additional bonus room that would make a great home office, or extra storage space. Large windows throughout make the unit feel
Charming 1 bedroom/1 bathroom available in quiet Sanford neighborhood. Hardwood floors, lots of natural light, shared washer and dryer in basement. Steps away from Hannaford, minutes from downtown Sanford, less than 45 minutes away from Portland and Kittery/Portsmouth. No pets allowed.
Welcome to this recently renovated waterfront home. Located in a quiet neighborhood, this 3-bedroom, 1.5-bathroom gem features fresh updates throughout. Enjoy the convenience of washer and dryer hookups in the second-floor bathroom and the option to rent the home furnished for a seamless move-in experience. Step outside to your private dock and take in the stunning waterfront views. -
Welcome to Nasson in the Pines, a unique living experience nestled in the heart of Springvale, ME. Set within a beautifully renovated and repurposed former Springvale School dormitory, this spacious 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom apartment offers a perfect blend of historic charm and modern convenience.Enjoy the serene, nature-filled surroundings, complete with a trickling brook, while benefiting
Welcome to your new comfortable 2 bedroom home in Sanford! This charming apartment has a spacious layout with sunny rooms and convenient off-street parking. The unit has a freshly painted interior with new flooring, updated fixtures and is close to downtown amenities along with nearby hiking trails!We understand that pets are an important part of your life, which is why this is a pet
Welcome to this expansive and meticulously crafted 5-bedroom, 4.5-bathroom residence, offering 3,300 square feet of refined living space. Built in 1996, this home seamlessly combines comfort and functionality. Property Highlights: •Spacious Living: Five generously sized bedrooms and 4.5 bathrooms provide ample space for family and guests. •Gourmet Kitchen: A well-appointed kitchen
This is a beautiful 1st floor 3 bedroom apartment. It has been fully renovated from top to bottom, with new light fixtures, appliances, paint and flooring. There is a small shared backyard, and parking is limited. It is located close to parks and downtown Sanford. We pay for Water, Sewer and Plowing. The tenant will be responsible for paying for Heat (Natural Gas), Electric, Hot Water
Welcome to 20 Bodwell Street, Unit A, in Sanford, Maine! This newly renovated, spacious 4-bedroom, 2-full-bath apartment offers comfortable living with gorgeous hardwood floors and classic architectural detail. Featuring an open layout filled with natural light, French interior doors, bay windows, and generous room sizes, this home provides a perfect blend of space, warmth, and character.
Welcome to 142 Emery Street in Sanford, Maine! This classic 2-story duplex offers comfortable multi-family living with spacious interiors and wood-look laminate flooring throughout. This unit features a functional 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom layout with a bright living area and wainscoting details. You'll find an eat-in kitchen complete with an electric stove, range, refrigerator, and ample
This is a large there bedroom apartment within walking distance to downtown. Washer dryer hook ups. oil furnace hot air system not included in rent. pets are negotiable one yer leas off street parking there is a dumpster onsite which landlord pays for. water sewer is paid for by landlord as well. background and credit check required.
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