Sanford, North Carolina is the largest city in Lee County. Also the county seat, Sanford residents relish life in this friendly southern community with its easy access to a wide range of amenities. As of the 2000 Census, Sanford reported a total population of 23,220.

Although Sanford is a small town, it supports a progressive business atmosphere with a diverse economic base. Sanford entrepreneurs have convenient access to Durham, Raleigh and the resources of the highly respected Research Triangle Park. With over 1,000 employees each, Lee County Schools, Static Control Components and Wyeth are among Sanford’s largest employers.

Lee County maintains a substantial network of transportation, providing access to important commercial markets such as Washington, DC and Atlanta, Georgia. Connections to airports, railways and seaports in Norfolk and Wilmington, also add to the vitality of Sanford’s thriving economy. Sanford’s strategic location in the geographic heart of NC provides benefits for the residents as well as the business community. Nationally renowned golf courses and resorts in Pinehurst and Southern Pines are to the south. Sanford also lies just two hours from the Atlantic beaches and three hours from the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains.

Opportunities for recreation abound throughout the 24 square miles of Sanford. Cape Fear River, Deep River and Jordan Lake offer ideal settings for various water sports, including boating, fishing and water-skiing. Sanford Family Fun Center, Deep River Sporting Clays and Shooting School, Gross Farms Corn Maze and San-Lee Park are popular local destinations for recreation. San-Lee Park has historical significance to Sanford residents, as it was originally the reservoir and water supply for the city.

Other Sanford activities include ballroom dancing, bowling, dance theater, shopping, and golfing on one of four courses. In addition, a delightful walking tour through Sanford features eighteen historic structures, with a knowledgeable guide regaling guests with the stories that go along with them. Sanford boasts a moderate climate with four distinct seasons to enjoy all the community has to offer.

Sanford affords its students with a competitively progressive education throughout its twelve public schools and two private schools. Central Carolina Community College has an excellent campus in Sanford. Other fine higher learning institutes within approximately an hour’s drive of Sanford are Campbell University, Duke University, Fayetteville State University, North Carolina Central University, North Carolina State University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Sanford, North Carolina retains the unassuming charm of its early days as a small railroad town, while taking a progressive track into the future. Teeming with endless possibilities, Sanford represents American living at its finest.