Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Sanford, MI
Considering a move to Sanford, MI? This small village of 782 residents offers affordable living, with median home prices around $158,000 and average rents at $900. You'll enjoy low crime rates (violent crime at 147 per 100k), friendly commutes averaging 25 minutes, and access to good local schools and healthcare. Sanford features four distinct seasons and a close-knit community feel—ideal for those seeking a peaceful, budget-friendly lifestyle in central Michigan.
Demographics - Sanford, MI
Demographics - Sanford, MI
Sanford is a small, close-knit community with a population of 782, a median age of 44.3, and a predominantly White demographic. The area features a balanced gender ratio and a low percentage of non-English speakers, making it an approachable village for newcomers. Its moderate population density provides a peaceful atmosphere while still offering community connections.
Population:
782
Density:
500 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.3
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
96.3%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
0.6%
Others:
2.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Sanford, MI?
Sanford boasts a low cost of living, with a median home value of $158,000 and average rents around $900, making it an attractive choice for budget-minded movers. Utility and transportation costs are below the national average, and state income tax remains steady at 4.25%. Residents benefit from affordable grocery, healthcare, and miscellaneous expenses compared to many other areas.
Median House Value:
$158,000
Gross Rent:
$900
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$115
Auto Insurance:
$1,220
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,120
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$400
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
4.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
84.0
Grocery:
92.0
Housing:
62.5
Utilities:
96.4
Transportation:
89.0
Health Care:
91.2
Miscellaneous:
88.1
Crime
Is Sanford, MI a safe place to live?
Sanford experiences low crime rates, with violent crimes at just 147 per 100,000 residents and property crimes at 1,020 per 100,000. The chance of being a victim of violent crime is about 1 in 680, contributing to a safe and secure environment for families and individuals. These statistics reflect a community where residents can feel at ease.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
147
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,020
Crime Index:
1,167
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 680
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 98
Weather
What is the weather like in Sanford, MI year-round?
Sanford offers four distinct seasons, with cold winters averaging lows of 14°F and warm summers reaching highs around 82°F. The village receives about 31.6 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunny days 46% of the year. This climate appeals to those who appreciate seasonal changes and outdoor activities year-round.
Winter
Min:
14°F
Max:
32°F
Spring
Min:
36°F
Max:
62°F
Summer
Min:
57°F
Max:
82°F
Fall
Min:
39°F
Max:
64°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
31.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
46%
Neighbors
Residents of Sanford enjoy a median household income of $58,300 and a family income of $65,200, with a poverty rate of 8.5%. Most neighbors are well-educated, with over 92% holding at least a high school diploma. The community features minimal public transit use and average commute times of 25 minutes, reflecting a primarily car-dependent lifestyle.
Median Income:
$34,500
Household Income:
$58,300
Family Income:
$65,200
Per Capita Income:
$32,200
Income Male:
$42,000
Income Female:
$30,000
Poverty Rate:
8.5%
Non English Speakers:
2.2%
Rent:
$900
Unemployment Rate:
4.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
25.1 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
92.9%
Bachelors or More:
19.8%
Education
How are the schools in Sanford, MI?
Sanford is served by local public schools such as Sanford Elementary and Meridian Junior High, offering manageable class sizes and dedicated staff. Higher education opportunities are close by, with Delta College and Northwood University located within a short drive. The community values education, providing options for families and individuals seeking lifelong learning.
Public Schools
Name:
Sanford Elementary School
Street:
540 W. Center St
Phone:
989-687-3455
Students:
325
Student Teacher Ratio:
17:1
Name:
Meridian Junior High School
Street:
3303 N. Meridian Rd
Phone:
989-687-3360
Students:
360
Student Teacher Ratio:
18:1
Colleges
Name:
Delta College
City:
University Center
State:
MI
Distance:
22 miles
Students:
8,000
Name:
Northwood University
City:
Midland
State:
MI
Distance:
12 miles
Students:
3,500
Healthcare
Sanford residents have convenient access to major healthcare facilities like MyMichigan Medical Center Midland, which offers emergency services. With nearly 94% of people covered by health insurance and 1.6 physicians per 1,000 residents, healthcare needs are well supported. The area’s healthcare index suggests reliable and affordable medical care for locals.
Major Hospitals
Name:
MyMichigan Medical Center Midland
Address:
4000 Wellness Dr, Midland, MI 48670
Phone:
(989) 839-3000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.9%
Health Care Index:
77.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Sanford, MI?
The Sanford housing market is affordable and stable, with a median home price of $158,000 and average two-bedroom rents at $900. Owner-occupancy rates are high at 78.5%, and the area has low foreclosure and vacancy rates. Modest home appreciation and limited new construction make this an appealing spot for buyers seeking long-term value.
Median Home Price:
$158,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$900
Owner Occupied Rate:
78.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.4%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Sanford residents handle vehicle and licensing needs through the Michigan Secretary of State office located in nearby Midland. Convenient services and information are accessible both in person and online, streamlining DMV tasks for locals. The proximity of the office makes vehicle registration and licensing straightforward for new arrivals.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State
Address:
706 S Saginaw Rd, Midland, MI 48640
Phone:
1-888-767-6424
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.