The Best Neighborhoods to Live in Savannah, Georgia

Founded in 1733 by British philanthropist and Parliament Member Gen. James Edward Oglethorpe, Savannah earned the nickname of “America’s First Planned City” due to its comprehensive urban design featuring a gridded network of streets, neighborhoods, and parks. Also known for its Southern hospitality, Savannah’s other moniker is “Hostess City of the South.”

While Union Major Gen. William Tecumseh Sherman's infamous March to the Sea in the Civil War destroyed many towns and cities in its path, Savannah was spared. Struck by its beauty and greenery, he instead offered Savannah to President Abraham Lincoln as a Christmas gift.

Comprising more than 100 unique neighborhoods in six main areas, Savannah was declared one of the largest U.S. National Historic Landmark Districts in 1966. 

Its proximity to Atlantic Ocean beaches, easy access to coastal islands, historic Savannah Riverfront, and other popular tourist destinations led to Savannah being designated one of “15 Excellent Places to Travel in The U.S.” by MSN Travel.

Just four hours from downtown Atlanta, Savannah hosts some of the South’s most renowned restaurants and architecture. Avid readers will note its inspiration for the novel “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.” Movie buffs might recall the 1997 film adaptation starring John Cusack and Jude Law.

Here are the top 10 neighborhoods in and around Savannah—including some incredible spots in nearby South Carolina—based on research by Niche.com’s “2023 Best Places to Live in the Savannah Area.” We’ve also included local food tips. 

Learn more about the top 10 places to live in and around Savannah, along with their respective benefits, features, and more. 

This shoe-shaped island is located just 20 miles north of greater Savannah. As a popular destination for year-round and seasonal residents, it’s often referred to as the second-largest barrier island on the Eastern Seaboard. 

While more than half of the communities on the island are gated, it still welcomes non-residents to its 12 miles of public beaches, and many golf courses and parks. Voted the top island in the United States in the Conde Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards, Hilton Head boasts easy living, and many amenities for all walks of life.

Local Food Tips: For the best shrimp and grits in South Carolina, visit a Lowcountry Backyard Restaurant for traditional Southern cooking. Check out Kenny B’s if you’re craving cajun seafood or a crab boil. 

Situated along the Intracoastal Waterway, Dutch Island was established via a land grant by King George II. Other than the homes within this 500-acre private, gated community, most of the land has remained untouched.

With its beautiful beaches, community pool, ample boat slips, and other recreational activities, Dutch Island’s charm makes it a fitting choice for outdoors-active residents.

Local Food Tip: Dutch Island is known for its food trucks making weekly stops throughout the community.

Between Hilton Head Island and Interstate 95, Bluffton is one of the fastest-growing areas in the state. With a mix of rural and suburban living, residents range from families to young professionals and retirees. 

Bluffton is in the heart of so-called “low country,” boasting single-family homes, condominiums, and historic cottages. It boasts a mission of taking care of its citizens. There’s also no shortage of culture, events, and shopping—with a gallery district, mom-and-pop shops, outlet centers, and more. The weekly Farmer’s Market of Bluffton also draws merchants touting everything from homemade jams to local produce.

The area’s mild, year-round climate also offers many opportunities for boating, swimming, fishing, golfing, and other outdoor recreational activities.

Local Food Tips: Experience “the lost art of fine dining” at The Bluffton Room for classic American cuisine. For steak, seafood, and pasta in a throwback 1960s setting, check out Frankie Bones Restaurant Lounge. 

This community of approximately 7,000 residents is situated at the Georgia-South Carolina border and mouth of the Savannah River. Downtown Savannah lies about 30 minutes to the west, with Tybee Island beaches to the east. 

Residents enjoy easy access to the many shops, museums, and restaurants. 

Local Food Tips: Aiming to redefine casual dining, JThomas Kitchen features classic French cooking with low country style. Try Rio Bravo for authentic Mexican cuisine, delicious desserts, and a lively happy hour!   

Known for its historic plantations and waterfront, Isle of Hope is surrounded by tidal inlets and was referred to on early maps as “L'Isle d'Espérance”—with legend stating pirates often used the island to hide buried treasures. 

Isle of Hope boasts homes of various architectural styles, such as Greek Revival, Victorian Eclectic, Neoclassical, and Craftsman Bungalow. Known for rich oak, palms, and other trees offering cool, shady areas, the peninsula originated as a summer retreat to escape the Savannah heat.

Isle of Hope Marina is situated along Bluff Drive, which includes some of the area’s most beautiful and picturesque scenery enveloped by landscaped gardens and jetties.

Local Food Tips: With locations in Savannah and Sandfly, The 5 Spot boasts casual, family-friendly lunch and dinner options. To partake in some of the area’s freshest seafood, visit The Wyld Dock Bar. 

A stone’s throw from Wilmington Island, Talahi Island is about 8 miles east of Savannah. Its well-preserved history and beautiful beaches make it appealing to everyone from young families to retirees. 

Bordering the area’s plentiful marshes, the island hosts traditional stucco homes, bungalows, and beachfront condominiums. The area has a community feel, with several seasonal, family-friendly activities.

Local Food Tips: Check out celebrity chef Paula Deen’s Creek House & Seafood Grill for fresh fish and steaks. Another local favorite is Molly McGuire’s—dubbed the spot to “Unwind on Island Time.”

Home to mostly families and young professionals, Richmond Hill is adjacent to the Great Ogeechee River, about 30 minutes south of downtown Savannah. Known as “Henry Ford’s Southern Town,” the inventor considered it his winter retreat for many years.

Throughout the year, residents gather at J.F. Gregory Park for community events such as the Great Ogeechee Seafood Festival, Old Time Family Fourth of July Festival and Fireworks, and Annual Pumpkin Patch. Other recreational areas include Fort McAllister State Park and Campground, complete with natural trails, and a Civil War museum.  

One of the fastest-growing U.S. communities, Richmond Hill’s proximity to I-95 and Fort Stewart make it a popular choice for U.S. military families. Whether you’re a lover of history or the beach, Richmond Hill has the best of both.

Local Food Tips: Try La Casita for traditionally authentic Peruvian dishes, such as Lomo Salteado and Tallarines Verdes. For great food and drink specials along with music from the 1960s through 1980s, visit Flashback Bar & Grill!

Pooler’s rich history dates to the Civil War era as the final stop on the Central of Georgia Railway. The city served as a meeting spot for brokering Savannah’s peaceful surrender in December 1864.

Pooler is one of Georgia’s fastest-growing, and safest, cities. Its strategic location has also fueled its commercial growth, attracting many large corporate headquarters. These include equipment manufacturer JCB, tactical gear provider Blue Force Gear, and private jet company Gulfstream Aerospace. 

The Shops at Godley Station are a popular attraction, as well as the Mighty Eighth Air Force Museum, and outdoor entertainment at Tom Triplett Community Park. 

Local Food Tips: Dubbed Savannah’s favorite family restaurant since 1960, Carey Hilliard’s is a mainstay for barbeque and seafood lovers. For authentic Puerto Rican flavors, check out the family owned Chazito’s Latin Cuisine. 

Georgetown is a commuter enclave for residents working within metro Savannah. Established during the 1970s and 1980s, this suburban community boasts several shopping and dining areas. Georgetown’s quiet easy living is also a draw for young professionals and families

Local Food Tip: Serving up the “Original Bone-In Catfish Dinner” since 1949, Love’s Seafood & Steaks is the place to go for family dining in a waterfront, rustic setting.

Wilmington Island holds a sparse, yet suburban environment. Comprising the neighborhoods of Wilmington, Wilmington Park, and Woodridge Estates, the island features various waterfront and marshfront single-family homes, townhouses, and condominiums. 

Its central location between downtown Savannah and Tybee Island make it another attractive option. Residents enjoy various outdoor activities such as water skiing, tennis, biking, golfing, swimming, and more. 

Local Food Tip: Try Lili’s Restaurant & Bar for an eclectic take on Southern cooking in a warm, cozy atmosphere.

The Takeaway

If you’re considering a move to the Savannah, Georgia area, it’s best to weigh all options, such as median home value, affordability, school districts, transportation, restaurants, and leisure activities. When working with our loan officers you’ll receive the highest levels of guidance on choosing the best financing for your dream home.

Contact Contour Mortgage to learn how we can help with loan financing requirements, qualifications, and questions.