Born in Surrey in 1987,
she was the youngest of three children, with older siblings James and Katherine. The family moved to York when Sarah was still young after her father, Jeremy, 67, got a job as professor of electronics at the city's university.
Her mother Sue, 63, worked as a support officer at the Joseph Rowntree Foundation.
The family home was in a quiet cul-de-sac, in the Heslington area of the city and Sarah would often be seen playing in the street with her siblings and other local children.
On Thursday, neighbours who watched her grow up described how they were struggling to come to terms with the tragedy.
One said: "I keep seeing it on TV, that picture of her smiling face and then it hits me each time 'that's Sue and Jeremy's daughter'.
"I keep wondering in my head what I'll say when they come home. But what can you say? This is the worst thing that could possibly happen to anyone.
"Sarah was already living away but I'd see her when she came home to see her parents, I can't stop thinking about what they're going through."
The two other neighbours in the small close, one of whom had known Ms Everard since childhood, were too distressed to comment.
She attended the local comprehensive school where she was remembered as an incredibly likeable and popular girl who excelled at sport and did well academically.
The tragic news of recent days was said to have had a huge impact on the whole school community. Steve Lewis, the headteacher said: "Sarah was a vibrant, caring and much valued member of our school community.
"She left Fulford School in 2005. She is still lovingly remembered by those who taught and knew her. Her joy, intelligence and positive spirit shone within the school. She was a lovely pupil and friend.
"Her family and friends are part of our community and our thoughts and warmest wishes go to all who have been lucky enough to have had her in their lives."
It is no exaggeration to say that the latest news has affected people all over the world.
She was in a relationship with fellow marketing executive Josh Louth and the pair were excited about their future.
Mr Louth was the last person to speak to her on the night she disappeared.
Posting a tribute online, former colleague Holly Morgan, summed up the feelings of so many of her friends: "I had the absolute pleasure of working with and becoming friends with Sarah Everard over the last few years. Truly the kindest, sweetest and most fabulous human.
"I feel so grateful of the time I got to share with her. She was, and continues to be, so loved. My love, thoughts and prayers to her family and loved ones right now. Words cannot express."
Sarah Everard profile: 'Caring and fun-filled' marketing executive attracted friends wherever she went
