Sarah was born in New York City to Veronica and Alan Arikian. She began taking dancing and acting classes around age 5. Sarah chose to pursue a career in singing during high school and attended Manhattan School of Music for her Bachelor's degree in Opera Studies. After graduation, Sarah attended New York University for a Master's degree in Classical Vocal Performance.
Sarah is the second of four children. Her older brother Jason Arikian is married to Kristin Van Dien, sister of actor Casper Van Dien.