Best Places to Live in Sanford 

Are you looking for the best places to live in Sanford, NC? Here are five great neighborhoods in Sanford, along with information on local favorites! 

Sanford, North Carolina, is located in the heart of the state and is best known for its small-town convenience and southern charm. Situated about 43 miles from Raleigh and the rest of the Triangle area, Sanford is not far from big city amenities and plentiful job opportunities. Since it is found in the central Piedmont area, Sanford is known for its picturesque rolling hills, scenic rivers and streams, and numerous recreational facilities. 

As one of the best places to live in North Carolina, Sanford is home to many families since it offers a high quality of life and an affordable cost of living lower than the national average. A cheaper place to live compared to other cities in the region; housing costs, food, transportation, and utilities are all more affordable in Sanford. 

First incorporated in 1874, Sanford has a rich history, and its Downtown historic district reflects this. Since its foundation, Sanford has been an active railroad and industrial center, which can be seen in its abundant brick and pottery production. Most buildings and structures throughout the city were constructed during the 1920s, and most streets follow a grid pattern corresponding to many highways. 

Recognized as the county seat of Lee County, Sanford features many local businesses, golf courses, spas, and fun outdoor activities that all ages will enjoy. Home to many desirable areas throughout the city, the neighborhoods in Sanford are known to be peaceful, family-friendly, and welcoming to all new residents. 

If you are considering a move to Sanford, finding a community that fits your lifestyle, is safe, and is located near top-rated amenities is essential. Here is our list of the best neighborhoods in Sanford based on median home prices, safety ratings, unique features, and local reviews. 

Check out these best neighborhoods in Sanford 

1. Carolina Trace 

Median Home Price: $383,761

Average Price Per Square Foot: $181

Unique Features: Country club, gated golf community, scenic golf or lake views. 

The Carolina Trace community is easily one of Sanford's best places to live. This coveted neighborhood is situated around Lake Trace and provides a peaceful backdrop in the Sandhills region of North Carolina. This beautiful community is best known for its quiet way of life, natural beauty, abundant trees, and friendly neighbors. 

With an average homeowner age of 56, most people living in Carolina Trace are families with school-aged children or couples of retirement age who like to play golf at the Carolina Trace Country Club. Situated on the golf course, most homes here offer golf or lake views, and since it is a gated community, Carolina Trace has a high safety rating. 

The Carolina Trace Country Club is a top-rated golf course designed among the Carolina pine trees and over the Sandhills. Most homeowners are country club members, which offers access to recreational activities and culinary options. 

Local Favorites: 

Carolina Trace Country Club: This members-only country club features two 18-hole golf courses, tennis courts, a fitness center, swimming pools, and fine and casual dining options. 

San-Lee Park: Visit this popular Lee County park, which offers hiking trails, picnic areas, a playground, a nature center, campgrounds, and two lakes, which are great for fishing. At over 177 acres in size, this park is excellent for families looking to spend time outdoors in nature. 

Temple Theatre: This historic performance center, built in 1925, is located in the heart of Downtown Sanford. Celebrating its 100th early, this professional theatre brings Broadway-level productions to central North Carolina at a reduced price. The Temple Theatre is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Lee County. 

2. Carolina Lakes 

Median Home Price: $456,739

Average Price Per Square Foot: $180

Unique Features: Gated golf community 

Carolina Lakes is another sought-after neighborhood in Sanford known for its premier real estate and welcoming residents. This gated community features approximately 1,700 homes and is best known for its surrounding lakes. Lake Carolina is 240 acres in size and is the main lake that the neighborhood surrounds. Other lakes in the area include Crystal, Diamond, Mirror, Sapphire, Silver, and Ski Lake. 

Carolina Lakes is a great place to live for residents who enjoy an active lifestyle. It features 35 miles of paved private roads and two marina pavillions. Since this neighborhood is situated on the lake, most residents can be found boating, kayaking, or fishing. The neighborhood comprises families with school-aged children, active-duty military, civilian contractors, and retirees. 

The Carolina Lakes Golf Club is located here, and many residents are members. This popular golf course is open daily and is considered one of the most enjoyable courses within the Sandhills region. Since this is not a private golf club, anyone can take advantage of its affordable daily rates. 

All kids in the neighborhood attending public school are part of the Harnett County School System. The top schools in the area include Highland Elementary School, Highland Middle School, and Overhills High School.

Local Favorites: 

Carolina Lakes Golf Club: This public 18-hole championship golf course is known for its reasonable prices, outstanding service, and well-maintained course conditions. Great for all levels of players, including beginners, many people love visiting this golf club on the weekends. 

Sanford Antique Mall: Featuring over 18,000 square feet of antiques, furniture, books, and collectibles, this large antique mall sells items from over 75 dealers. This is a great spot to shop in Downtown Sanford for unique finds at affordable prices. 

Big Bloomers Flower Farm: Visit this garden center to shop from its large selection of plants. Whether you are looking for ways to spruce up your front or backyard, this local garden center has one of the largest selections of perennials, annuals, herbs, and shrubs in the southeast. 

3. Westlake Valley 

Median Home Price: $485,980

Average Price Per Square Foot: $169

Unique Features: Family-friendly and large homes 

Westlake Valley is a beautiful place to live in Sanford. It is best known for its larger, reasonably priced homes. First developed in 1967, this established neighborhood has continued to grow over the years and is mainly made up of single-family homes with three to five bedrooms and two to five bathrooms. 

Featuring tree-lined streets and a quiet atmosphere, Westlake Valley is a fantastic place to raise a family. The average homeowner's age is 60, and the Westlake Club, a boutique swim and tennis club, is located here. 

Local Favorites: 

White Pines Nature Preserve: This beautiful nature preserve offers well-marked hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and boat access. It is located at the junction of the Deep and Rocky Rivers, and many endangered fish and plant species are found here, making it a cool place for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. 

Smoke and Barrel: This popular local bar and grill was established in 2014 and has served the area classic smokehouse favorites, beer, and bourbon ever since. Hang out with friends and family while enjoying great food and drinks in Sanford. 

Hugger Mugger Brewing Company: Home to a dog-friendly beer hall and an outdoor beer garden, this lively brewing company in historic Downtown Sanford features up to 18 beers brewed on-site and welcomes local food trucks daily. 

4. Carbonton Heights 

Median Home Price: $444,700

Average Price Per Square Foot: $172 

Unique Features: Affordable, mid-size homes 

If you are searching for a well-maintained and quiet neighborhood in Sanford, look no further than Carbonton Heights. This community is sought after for its walkability to nearby amenities and peaceful way of life. Made up of primarily mid-sized single-family homes, the Carbonton Heights neighborhood is an attractive option for young professionals, families, and retirees. 

Local Favorites: 

Aloha Safari Park: A great thing to do with kids, visit this family-run zoo, which is home to a wide array of animals, including tigers, giraffes, zebras, alpacas, camels, and kangaroos. With over 300 unique animal species to check out, this is an excellent place in Sanford to learn about animals and see them up close during a drive-through safari. 

Tobacco Road Golf Club: This challenging and scenic golf club in Sanford was designed by Mike Strantz and is beloved for its unique design on land that tobacco farmers once used. Whether you are participating in a golf tournament or want to hit balls at the driving range, this is an excellent course for all levels of players. 

Libations 139: Visit this laid-back restaurant known for its fast-casual experience and chef-inspired small plates. Order from a great selection of craft cocktails, beer, and boutique wine. 

5. McIver Park 

Median Home Price: $602,557

Average Price Per Square Foot: $134

Unique Features: National Historic District 

The McIver Park neighborhood in Sanford is a well-established community best known for its rich history and beautiful mid-size homes. Recognized as part of a National Historic District in Lee County, this neighborhood adjoins the Rosemount community and is appreciated for its architecture. 

Local Favorites: 

Kiwanis Family Park: Considered an excellent place for families, this local park features a new playground area, picnic facilities, a gazebo, a fitness trail, walking paths, two new shelters, and bathroom facilities. This park is also home to the first splash pad in Sanford, which is great for kids during the hot summer months. 

Quail Ridge Golf Course: Ellis Maples designed this golf course, which opened in 1967. It is a premium place to play golf for its immaculate greens and beautiful views. Memberships to the club are available and range in price. 

Camelback Brewing Company: This laid-back brewing company specializes in craft beer. The taps here are constantly rotating, and there is also a selection of tasty food, wine, and spirits. 

FAQs 

Is Sanford, NC, a nice place to live? 

Sanford is a fantastic place to live in North Carolina since it offers a small-town feel and a tight-knit sense of community. Best known for its friendly residences and affordability, many families choose to call Sanford home. 

Does Sanford, NC, have a downtown area? 

Sanford, North Carolina, has a lovely Downtown historic district home to many boutique businesses, art galleries, restaurants, and cafes. The city hosts many community events and festivals annually to unite the town, so there is always something to do and see in Downtown Sanford. 

What is the crime rate in Sanford, NC? 

Sanford may be a growing small town, but its crime rate is slightly higher than Raleigh. Considered safer than 17% of other cities throughout the United States, the crime rate in Sanford is 22.05 per 1,000 residents. Your chance of becoming a victim of violent crime in Sanford is one in 493, and your chance of becoming a victim of property crime is one in 50. 

Why is Sanford called Brick City? 

Sanford, North Carolina, has a rich history and is often called 'Brick City' since it is known as one of the country's largest brick and pottery producers. As an active railroad and industrial center, Sanford's abundance of clay and red shale deposits makes it ideal for producing bricks. In 1959, the city of Sanford was responsible for producing 10% of the nation's bricks. 

Is Sanford, NC, a big city? 

With a population of 32,064, Sanford, North Carolina, is not a big city and is instead referred to as a small town. While Sanford continues to grow and welcome new business, the city only has a land area of 29.1 square miles. 

Methodology 

To determine Sanford's best neighborhoods, data and information were sourced from the U.S. Census Bureau, the City of Sanford, NeighborhoodScout, and local Sanford businesses. Median home prices, safety ratings, and unique amenities were also considered. 

Best Neighborhoods in Sanford, NC - Final Thoughts 

With plenty of great neighborhoods, it is no wonder many people are choosing to move to Sanford. Whether you decide to live in a gated golf community or a historic district, there are plenty of safe and affordable places to call home. If you are ready to search for your dream home in Sanford, the experts at Raleigh Realty are here to help.