Sands End was traditionally a working class area - after all not many rich people wanted to live near to the gas works, power station and petrol depot that all used to be in this area and provide the local employment (some gas holders remain). However, like most of Fulham it has been gentrified beyond recognition and the property prices are nearly the equal of such places as Parsons Green. My grandmother lived in Sands End for 40 years (in a building that used to be on the site of Pineapple Park) and some relatives still do, so there are some of the 'old-time' residents still about.
Public transport in the area is a bit thin, with only the 391 and C3 buses in addition to the Overground, although the District Line isn't far away in Parsons Green and Walham Green and other buses along the Kings Road - and boats in the river. Local facilities are also underdeveloped but catching up.