Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Sanders, AZ
Considering a move to Sanders, AZ? This small, close-knit community of about 630 residents offers a low cost of living, with median home prices around $72,000 and rents averaging $670. Enjoy over 300 sunny days a year and short commutes—about 25 minutes on average. While the area is predominantly Native American and features a high owner-occupied housing rate, note that local amenities are limited and incomes are lower than average. Schools are community-centered, and the peaceful rural lifestyle is ideal for those seeking affordability and Arizona’s high-desert climate.
Demographics - Sanders, AZ
Demographics - Sanders, AZ
Sanders, AZ is a small, close-knit community of approximately 630 residents, with a youthful median age of 30.2 and a population that is predominantly Native American. The area is culturally rich, with over half of residents speaking a language other than English at home, and boasts a balanced gender ratio. Its low population density fosters a quiet, rural atmosphere ideal for those seeking a slower pace of life.
Population:
630
Density:
71 per sq mi
Median Age:
30.2
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
55.0%
Ethnic Composition
White:
8.0%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
0.2%
Others:
91.3% (primarily Native American)
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Sanders, AZ?
The cost of living in Sanders is notably affordable, with median home values around $72,000 and average monthly rent at $670. Residents benefit from low housing and grocery costs, making it attractive for those on a tight budget. Utilities and transportation expenses remain moderate, contributing to an overall cost of living index well below the national average.
Median House Value:
$72,000
Gross Rent:
$670
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,360
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$900
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$260
State Taxes:
Low:
2.59%
|
High:
4.5%
Cost Of Living Index:
83.0
Grocery:
92.0
Housing:
47.0
Utilities:
98.0
Transportation:
91.0
Health Care:
94.0
Miscellaneous:
88.0
Crime
Is Sanders, AZ a safe place to live?
Sanders experiences a relatively low rate of violent crime, with about 215 incidents per 100,000 people, but property crime is higher, reflecting a 1 in 56 chance annually. The small-town environment contributes to a sense of security, though residents should remain mindful of property safety. Overall, crime rates are comparable to other rural communities in the region.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
215
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,800
Crime Index:
2,015
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 465
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 56
Weather
What is the weather like in Sanders, AZ year-round?
Sanders enjoys a high-desert climate with about 76% sunny days annually and just 12 inches of rainfall per year. Winters are chilly but not severe, while summers are warm and comfortable, with average highs reaching 88°F. The area’s pleasant weather is ideal for those who appreciate dry, sunny conditions year-round.
Winter
Min:
22°F
Max:
44°F
Spring
Min:
32°F
Max:
66°F
Summer
Min:
57°F
Max:
88°F
Fall
Min:
34°F
Max:
70°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
12.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
76%
Neighbors
Neighborhoods in Sanders are characterized by modest incomes, with a median household income of $38,900 and a poverty rate of 39%. Most residents drive to work, with commutes averaging 25 minutes, and public transportation use is minimal. The community is tight-knit, though opportunities for higher education and employment are somewhat limited.
Median Income:
$30,000
Household Income:
$38,900
Family Income:
$41,500
Per Capita Income:
$13,000
Income Male:
$31,000
Income Female:
$27,000
Poverty Rate:
39.0%
Non English Speakers:
55.0%
Rent:
$670
Unemployment Rate:
13.5%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
25.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
74.0%
Bachelors or More:
7.8%
Education
How are the schools in Sanders, AZ?
Sanders offers community-focused public schools, including Sanders Elementary and Valley High School, both with small class sizes that promote personalized learning. While there are no private schools locally, nearby college options such as Diné College and Northland Pioneer College are accessible for higher education. The area’s educational environment is supportive but may have fewer advanced opportunities compared to larger cities.
Public Schools
Name:
Sanders Elementary School
Street:
P.O. Box 7, Sanders, AZ 86512
Phone:
928-688-3470
Students:
250
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.5
Name:
Valley High School
Street:
PO Box 7, Sanders, AZ 86512
Phone:
928-688-4251
Students:
300
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.7
Colleges
Name:
Diné College – Tsaile Campus
City:
Tsaile
State:
AZ
Distance:
47 miles
Students:
1,500
Name:
Northland Pioneer College – Holbrook Center
City:
Holbrook
State:
AZ
Distance:
64 miles
Students:
7,000
Healthcare
Healthcare in Sanders is anchored by a local Indian Health Service clinic offering primary care, with more comprehensive and emergency services available in nearby Gallup, NM. The area has a lower-than-average physician availability and about three-quarters of residents have health insurance. While basic healthcare needs are met locally, access to specialists may require travel.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Sanders Clinic (Indian Health Service)
Address:
Hwy 191, Sanders, AZ 86512
Phone:
(928) 688-3650
Type:
Primary Care
Emergency Services:
No
Name:
Gallup Indian Medical Center
Address:
516 E Nizhoni Blvd, Gallup, NM 87301
Phone:
(505) 722-1000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
0.9
Health Insurance Coverage:
74.0%
Health Care Index:
62.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Sanders, AZ?
The housing market in Sanders is highly affordable, with median home prices at $72,000 and rent for a two-bedroom apartment averaging $670. Most homes are owner-occupied, reflecting a stable and settled community, and the local real estate market sees modest appreciation each year. Rental vacancies are low, making it easier for homeowners than renters to find housing.
Median Home Price:
$72,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$670
Owner Occupied Rate:
74.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.0%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.5%
New Construction Rate:
0.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Vehicle services in Sanders are managed by the Arizona Department of Transportation’s Motor Vehicle Division, with the nearest full-service office in Phoenix. Residents can access registration, licensing, and other DMV services online or by phone. The state’s DMV system is user-friendly and provides essential support for drivers in rural areas.
State:
Arizona
Department:
Arizona Department of Transportation – Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
1801 W. Jefferson St., Phoenix, AZ 85007
Phone:
602-255-0072
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.