Sanford, MI
Population 743 · Michigan
About Sanford, MI
Sanford is a small community in Michigan with a population of 743 residents. The median household income is $69,667 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Sanford is 43.5 years.
Housing in Sanford has a median home value of $165,800 and median monthly rent of $859. Of the 358 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 271 owner-occupied and 65 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Sanford is 3.6% and the poverty rate is 11.7%. 39.0% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 23.6 minutes.
Cost of Living in Sanford, MI
Compared to national averages, Sanford has a median household income of $69,667 (7% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $165,800, which is 32% below the national median. Monthly rent at $859 is 26% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Sanford's income is 6% above the state average of $66,017, and home values are 10% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Sanford, MI?
Sanford offers affordable housing with a median home value of $165,800, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $859/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 3.6%. Additionally, the city features a well-educated community where 39.0% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a low poverty rate of 11.7%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 23.6 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($69,667) 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 743 with a median age of 43.5 years. Compare Sanford with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Sanford
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lakeport | 746 | $55,167 | $172,000 | Compare |
| Hillman | 750 | $41,000 | $93,200 | Compare |
| Benzonia | 735 | $61,161 | $195,800 | Compare |
| Hardwood Acres | 735 | $107,128 | $240,500 | Compare |
| Saugatuck | 751 | $118,309 | $619,400 | Compare |
| Columbiaville | 734 | $58,250 | $122,000 | Compare |
| Oscoda | 757 | $37,188 | $71,800 | Compare |
| Augusta | 726 | $58,958 | $135,200 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Michigan
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, MI?
The population of Sanford, MI is 743 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Sanford?
The median household income in Sanford, MI is $69,667 per year.
What is the median home value in Sanford?
The median home value in Sanford, MI is $165,800.
What is the average rent in Sanford?
The median monthly rent in Sanford, MI is $859.
What is the unemployment rate in Sanford?
The unemployment rate in Sanford, MI is 3.6%.