As of the census of 2000, there were 23,220 people, 8,550 households, and 5,899 families residing in the city. The population density was 964.7 people per square mile (372.5/km²). There were 9,223 housing units at an average density of 383.2/sq mi (147.9/km²). The racial makeup of the city was 55.87% White, 29.19% African American, 0.50% Native American, 1.06% Asian, 0.03% Pacific Islander, 11.93% from other races, and 1.41% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 19.03% of the population.
There are 8,550 households, out of which 34.5% have children under the age of 18 living with them, 46.0% were married couples living together, 17.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 31.0% were non-families. 26.1% of all households were made up of individuals and 9.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.64 people and the average family size was 3.15 people.
In the city the population was spread out with 27.1% under the age of 18, 10.5% from 18 to 24, 30.3% from 25 to 44, 19.9% from 45 to 64, and 12.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 33 years. For every 100 females there were 97.5 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 94.8 males.
The median income for a household in the city was $34,804, and the median income for a family was $39,447. Males had a median income of $30,527 versus $23,393 for females. The per capita income for the city was $17,038. About 14.8% of families and 17.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 21.4% of those under age 18 and 13.0% of those age 65 or over.
Sanford-Lee County Airport (ICAO: KTTA, FAA LID: TTA) is located approximately 7 miles northeast of Sanford via U.S. 1. The airport opened in 2000, replacing the Sanford Lee County Brick Field, and provides both recreational and corporate services.
The County of Lee Transit System (COLTS) is a coordinated transit system that provides transportation services in Sanford and Lee County.
The Carolina Connection North Carolina Bicycle Route 1 (a portion of the Maine-to-Florida U.S. Bicycle Route 1) travels through Sanford and Lee County. A half-mile greenway trail is located in the Kiwanis Family Park with additional mileage under development.