Sanford, ME
Population 22,095 · Maine
About Sanford, ME
Sanford is a mid-sized city in Maine with a population of 22,095 residents. The median household income is $70,570 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Sanford is 40.4 years.
Housing in Sanford has a median home value of $257,200 and median monthly rent of $1,158. Of the 9,974 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 6,488 owner-occupied and 2,843 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Sanford is 3.3% and the poverty rate is 10.6%. 23.6% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 27.4 minutes.
How Sanford Ranks in Maine
Cost of Living in Sanford, ME
Compared to national averages, Sanford has a median household income of $70,570 (6% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $257,200, which is 5% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,158 is 0% below the US average of $1,163. Within Maine, Sanford's income is 9% above the state average of $64,613, and home values are 2% above the state median of $251,113.
Why Live in Sanford, ME?
Sanford offers rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,158/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 3.3%, and a low poverty rate of 10.6%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include median household income ($70,570) that falls below the national average. However, Sanford’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Sanford has a population of 22,095 with a median age of 40.4 years. Compare Sanford with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Maine.
Similar Cities Near Sanford
Cities in Maine with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biddeford | 22,463 | $69,794 | $349,300 | Compare |
| Saco | 20,636 | $84,328 | $370,300 | Compare |
| Westbrook | 20,484 | $85,868 | $341,800 | Compare |
| Auburn | 24,294 | $66,552 | $254,600 | Compare |
| Augusta | 18,999 | $48,756 | $188,900 | Compare |
| South Portland | 26,780 | $84,563 | $405,800 | Compare |
| Brunswick | 16,928 | $68,190 | $333,500 | Compare |
| Waterville | 16,704 | $47,489 | $173,700 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Maine
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Sanford
What is the population of Sanford, ME?
The population of Sanford, ME is 22,095 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Sanford?
The median household income in Sanford, ME is $70,570 per year.
What is the median home value in Sanford?
The median home value in Sanford, ME is $257,200.
What is the average rent in Sanford?
The median monthly rent in Sanford, ME is $1,158.
What is the unemployment rate in Sanford?
The unemployment rate in Sanford, ME is 3.3%.