Just south of North Carolina’s Research Triangle, Sanford is a growing city with a walkable downtown and a thriving arts scene. “It’s a very big town, but the longer you live here, the more you realize how small it is,” says Maria Wright, a Realtor with Gordon & Associates Real Estate who has lived in Sanford for 11 years. “It has that feel where you walk in somewhere and people know you.” According to the 2020 census, the city’s population was just over 30,000 people, but is growing at a rate of nearly 2% each year as people move here seeking affordable homes within an hour’s commute to nearby cities like Raleigh and Fayetteville.
Though home to many commuters, Sanford has its own identity; the Temple Theatre and Mann Center of North Carolina drive the local arts community, and Sanford’s public art celebrates its history as a railroad and industrial center. Industrial manufacturing is still a big part of life in Sanford; companies like Pfizer, Tyson and Caterpillar are major employers. “Sanford has that infrastructure to grow with really positive potential,” Wright says. Fueled by the recent Infrastructure Reinvestment Act and Chips Act, more industrial development is coming to the region, including Vietnamese electric carmaker VinFast; their plant in nearby Moncure will draw on Sanford’s Big Buffalo Wastewater Treatment Plant, bringing more tax dollars to the city.
Sanford is a growing city with a walkable downtown not far from Research Triangle Park.
Caterpillar has a large manufacturing plant in Sanford.
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New construction keeping up with the population
With Sanford’s manufacturing boom comes the demand for more housing, and the city has recently approved new developments like 78 South, a neighborhood with 111 single-family homes. “We have the infrastructure, and we have the land,” Wright says. “It’s a perfect mix for builders who want to come in and develop.” Homes in the Downtown Sanford and East Sanford neighborhoods are typically older and more affordable. The median single-family home price in Sanford is around $335,000, lower than the national median and Raleigh's median of just under $545,000. Houses tend to stay on the market for an average of 62 days.
With Sanford’s manufacturing boom comes the demand for more housing and new neighborhoods are popping up all over.
Homes in the Downtown Sanford and East Sanford neighborhoods are typically older and more affordable.
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Dining on Sanford’s Barbecue Trail
Residents can head to Downtown Sanford to dine at one of the six restaurants on Sanford’s Barbecue Trail. Downtown offers a walkable area of early 20th-century brick storefronts with local shops, restaurants, breweries and a weekly farmers market. “More people are moving and relocating to Sanford and downtown is really growing. People really want their businesses to succeed and grow there,” says Wright who is on the Downtown Sanford Inc. board of directors, which hosts several annual events, including the three-day Downtown Sanford Streetfest and Downtown Alive concert series. Shoppers can also drive to South Horner Boulevard for chain restaurants, grocery stores and big-box retailers.
Downtown is the hub of the community arts scene. The Temple Theatre Company performs musicals and plays like “A Christmas Story” and “Annie” in the nearly 100-year-old Temple Theatre. The Mann Center of North Carolina, another community performance space, has an art gallery and is home to the Sanford Brush & Palette Club, a nonprofit arts group. Residents can stroll down Sanford’s Public Art Trail downtown, a nearly 3-mile tour of 15 murals that highlight Sanford’s history.
Downtown Sanford offers a walkable area of early 20th-century brick storefronts with local shops, restaurants, breweries and more.
Residents in Sanford can dine at one of the six restaurants on the NC Barbecue Trail.
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The new Lee County Multi-sports Park
Sanford has 16 urban parks, including the newest, the 45-acre Kiwanis Family Park, which has a splash pad and playground. “The city of Sanford has invested a lot into streetscapes and parks,” Wright says. “We have a little water park, trails and playgrounds.” Just outside of the city, the popular 177-acre San-Lee Park has 4 miles of hiking trails and fishing spots along two lakes. There are also four nearby golf courses, including the par-71 Sanford Municipal Golf Course. The 120-acre Lee County Multi-sports Park is currently under development. “It will help families to not have to drive outside of Lee County to play in sports leagues,” Wright says.
Just outside of Sanford is the popular 177-acre San-Lee Park.
Kiwanis Park is home to the first splash pad built in Sanford, NC.
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Dual enrollment at Lee Early College High
Lee County Public Schools earns an overall rating of B-minus from Niche. Sanford is home to the A-plus-rated Lee Early College High, an academically advanced public school where students can take dual enrollment courses at Central Carolina Community College and graduate with both a high school diploma and an associate degree. Popular private options include the B-plus-rated Lee Christian School and B-rated Grace Christian School. Sanford’s students can start college at Central Carolina Community College before transferring to a four-year university; the community college also offers associate degrees in subjects like applied technologies, as well as continuing education courses in topics like visual arts.
Sanford’s students can start college at Central Carolina Community College before transferring to a four-year university.
Lee Early College is a cooperative/innovative high school operated by Lee County Schools.
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Under 50 miles to Raleigh and Fayetteville
Sanford sits between several of North Carolina’s major cities, including Raleigh, around 45 miles northeast on Route 1, and Fayetteville, nearly 40 miles southeast on Highway 87. With no public transportation or bike lanes, residents here rely on their cars to get around. A planned Amtrak station in Sanford will soon offer passenger service to Raleigh; this is part of the region’s S-Line project to build a high-speed rail network between Raleigh and Richmond, Virginia. The corporate Raleigh Executive Jetport is 10 miles away, and Raleigh-Durham International Airport is a roughly 45-mile trip.
You can take Highway 87 and reach Fayetteville in about 30 minutes.
Downtown Raleigh is around a 45 miles northeast on Route 1.
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Written By
Joyelle Ronan
Photography Contributed By
Bryan Regan
Video By
Samantha Houtchens
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Jeanell Morton,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Sanford, NC sell after 73 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Sanford, NC over the last 12 months is $330,000, down 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
The Verona Classic is a stunning single-story home offering 3 bedrooms and 2 baths in a thoughtfully designed open floor plan. Bright and inviting, the living spaces are filled with natural light from energy-efficient windows and extend seamlessly to a spacious covered patio—perfect for entertaining or relaxing outdoors. At the heart of the home, the chef’s kitchen features a large island,
Move-in ready! This unique Turlington plan offers a perfect blend of comfort and style with a first-floor owner’s suite and spacious open-concept living. The family room features soaring ceilings that open to the second-floor loft and a cozy electric fireplace, with easy access to the covered patio for outdoor relaxation. The owner’s suite includes a dual-sink vanity, tiled shower, private water
The Torino is a thoughtfully designed ranch-style home that blends comfort, style, and functionality. Its open layout is perfect for entertaining or everyday living, featuring a bright living room with an electric fireplace and abundant natural light. The gourmet kitchen offers a spacious island, granite countertops, tile backsplash, and Whirlpool appliances, making it ideal for casual meals or
Stunning Ranch Home with Upgrades on a Spacious Corner Lot! Built in 2021 and set on a generous 0.7-acre corner lot, this 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers over 1,892 sq ft of beautifully maintained living space. The open and airy layout features oversized bedrooms, a luxurious primary suite with a dual vanity and large walk-in closet, and stylish updates throughout. Enjoy outdoor living with a rear
Set on a spacious lot, this well-kept 3-bedroom brick home offers two beautiful lake views and plenty of room to relax, entertain, and enjoy the outdoors. The main level features an open layout, a charming original wood furnace, and doors that open to a brand-new deck with sweeping lake views. The walk-out basement includes two bedrooms, a remodeled bathroom, and a large den with a stone-surround
Welcome to 406 Henry Circle—an exceptional 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home in the desirable Devroe Meadows community. Meticulously maintained and thoughtfully updated, this home is truly move-in ready and shines from top to bottom.Major system updates include a new water heater and HVAC systems replaced in 2020-2021, offering peace of mind for years to come. All appliances convey, including the
Timeless Country Charm Meets Golf Course Living in Carolina Trace!Nestled on a 1+ acre lot in the gated Carolina Trace Golf Community, this distinctive 4-bedroom, 4-bath home offers 2,795 square feet of living space and a rare opportunity to restore a truly special property. The home adjoins a serene pond and enjoys picturesque views of the 4th fairway, creating a peaceful setting that blends
Classic brick ranch home featuring an attached garage plus an impressive 32×24 detached garage/workshop complete with a separate, air-conditioned office—ideal for a home business, hobbies, or additional storage. Inside, the home offers a spacious family room with vaulted ceilings and a cozy fireplace, a generous kitchen with abundant cabinetry, breakfast bar, and large dining area. The primary
NEW ROOF Being put on starting this week!!**Back on the market at no fault of seller**Welcome Home to Carolina Lakes! This charming 3-bedroom, 2-bath ranch is ready to welcome its next owner and is perfectly nestled in the desirable Carolina Lakes community. Thoughtful updates including a new range, updated light fixtures, and new vanity tops, make this home truly move-in ready. The spacious
10K PRICE DROP**YOUR DREAM HOME JUST GOT EVEN BETTER. Tucked away on a cul-de-sac in the gated and guarded Carolina Lakes lake and golf community, this large 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home with a bonus room and RARE 3 CAR GARAGE offers the perfect blend of comfort, functionality, and style. The main level features a private office with French doors, a formal dining room for special gatherings, and a
Charming 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath two-story home located in the desirable Devroe Meadows subdivision on a spacious 0.37-acre lot. Ideally situated just off Hwy 1 and Hawkins Ave, this home offers both convenience and comfort with easy access to Sanford, Raleigh, and Southern Pines. Recent updates include a brand-new roof (2023), a newly built rear deck, and fresh rear fencing—perfect for outdoor
Sprawling Ranch on Over Half an Acre Near Downtown Sanford. This beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 2-bath ranch offers the perfect blend of modern convenience and timeless charm. Inviting interior featuring all-new luxury LVP flooring and fresh, neutral paint throughout. The spacious family room showcases a classic brick fireplace, creating a warm and welcoming gathering space. The heart of the home
Your Hidden Lake Ranch Awaits! This charming 1-owner 3BR/2BA ranch is nestled in the desirable Hidden Lake section of Carolina Trace, where residents enjoy a private pool, pond, marina, and tennis/pickleball court. Offering nearly 1,500 sq. ft. of comfortable living, this home features hardwood floors, a spacious living room with a gas log fireplace, and 3 generously sized bedrooms. Relax on the
Discover this fantastic home in the peaceful Persimmon Hill community, where large lots offer plenty of space for kids and pets to play. The fenced yard includes a convenient storage shed—perfect for lawn equipment or even a charming playhouse. Situated on a corner lot, this property provides added privacy and room to spread out. Inside, you’ll find a spacious living room with a cozy fireplace
Featuring a picturesque setting, 240 Forestwood Park Rd in Sanford, NC, is a charming haven that promises comfort and tranquility. This tastefully renovated 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom ranch home spans 1,475 square feet, offering ample space for relaxation and entertainment. As you step inside, you'll be greeted by a delightful atmosphere and gorgeous luxury vinyl plank flooring that seamlessly blends
Welcome to your new luxury retreat in the heart of Sanford, NC. Our brand new community combines modern elegance with Southern charm, offering a perfect blend of comfort and sophistication. While some amenities are under construction for a little while longer, we are open and accepting immediate move-ins and future move-ins! Call or email us today to schedule your tour!
Be the Very First to Live in This Gorgeous Lennar Townhome! 2 Levels, 3 Bedrooms & 2.5 Bathrooms! Main Level Has an Open Floor Plan With Family Room & Kitchen! Kitchen Features Stainless Steel Appliances, Gas Cooking, Tiled Backsplash and Large Island! Family Room Opens to Back Patio with Privacy Fence! Washer & Dryer Included in the Second Floor Laundry Room! Master Suite Includes a Walk-In
Spacious floorplans. Plenty of greenspace. Two fitness centers. Two pools. Three Bark Parks. A sense of community.You CAN have everything you're looking for, whether you need a short-term lease or want to become a long-term resident of our awesome community. Look no further than South Park Village, where you will find floor plans designed for modern living. Newly finished Phase 2 provides a
**$300 OFF FIRST FULL MONTH'S RENT** **SECTION 8** Cozy 2 bedroom, 1.5 bathroom apartment. Conveniently located off Horner Blvd and close to Hwy 1, shopping, restaurants, and downtown. First floor features half bathroom, kitchen that opens into living room with fireplace. Washer and dryer hookups. Upstairs you will find two bedrooms and a full bathroom. Pets welcome with a $200 nonrefundable pet
Mallard Cove Apartments is located in Sanford, NC. This property offers 1, 2, and 3 bedroom options. Residents get to enjoy the on-site pool, grilling stations, and playground. Contact us to learn more today!
Be the Very First to Live in This Gorgeous Lennar Townhome! 2 Levels, 3 Bedrooms & 2.5 Bathrooms! Main Level Has an Open Floor Plan With Family Room & Kitchen! Kitchen Features Stainless Steel Appliances, Gas Cooking, Tiled Backsplash and Large Island! Family Room Opens to Back Patio with Privacy Fence! Washer & Dryer Included in the Second Floor Laundry Room! Master Suite Includes a Walk-In
The Oaks Apartments is located at 160 Peaceful Lane in Sanford, NC. We offer 1,2 and 3 bedroom apartments with spacious interiors. Standard amenities include a large pool, basketball court, a tennis court, and exercise facility. We are very pet friendly, welcoming both cats and dogs. Breed restrictions apply. The Oaks is close to newly renovated downtown Sanford, with easy access to Route 1 to
Beautiful, 3-bedroom, end-unit townhome ideally located just minutes from US-1 and Hwy 421, offering easy access for commuting, shopping, and dining. The open-concept main level features a bright, modern kitchen with white cabinetry, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a spacious pantry. The living room is filled with natural light and opens through a large sliding door to a flat
Welcome home to Falls Creek Apartments, a friendly community where comfort and convenience come together. Ideally located off US 1 and US 421, Falls Creek keeps you close to the shops, restaurants, and entertainment of Riverbirch Corner and Spring Lane Galleria. Enjoy time outdoors with your furry friend on the nearby Sanford Greenway or relax right at home with community favorites like our
Welcome home to this beautifully updated 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom bungalow ideally located just minutes from downtown Sanford. This stylish rental blends modern finishes with cozy charm, offering a functional layout and inviting spaces throughout. The exterior makes a striking first impression with its sleek black siding, contemporary lines, and welcoming front entry. Inside, you’ll find an
SYBILLE MCQUILKINSYBILLE MCQUILKIN REAL ESTATE, LLC.
Located in in quiet residential neighborhood, Paige Mill Court offers a new standard in duplex living. These modern, private, and energy efficient homes have individual driveways, large modern kitchens, and vaulted ceilings. A cozy fireplace and private patio out back create the perfect atmosphere for residents and their guests. With plenty of storage and no steps to climb life is easy at Paige
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