The 10 Best Areas to Live Surrounding Savannah, GA

When it comes to finding the perfect place to live, there are many factors to weigh. If you’re looking for a beautiful area with plenty of things to do, Savannah, Ga., is a great place to consider. If you don’t want to live in the middle of Savannah and prefer to avoid crowds of tourists, perhaps living in a Savannah suburb is best for you.

Luckily, Savannah has many suburbs to choose from. Each community has something special to offer while still giving you proximity to Savannah, its restaurants, retail, and cultural attractions. Check out these ten popular suburbs in the Savannah area.

Dutch Island

Dutch Island is a gated community with only 480 residential houses. This suburb is one of the nearest to Savannah, but it offers a relaxed and rural lifestyle. It is known for its beautiful waterfront views. Residents are surrounded by the intercoastal waterway, Wilmington River, Skidaway River, and saltwater marshes.

The local amenities include multiple tennis courts, ponds in lagoons, a deep water dock, and a swimming pool. There are numerous volleyball courts, playgrounds, docks, and piers. A homeowners association overseas and manages the rules of the community.

This area is perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Hilton Head, SC

Hilton Head is one of the most popular suburbs in Savannah, located 38 miles from Savannah, and is accessible by car or boat. It’s known for its world-renowned golf courses, luxurious resorts, and stunning beaches. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, alligators, and turtles.

There are plenty of things to do in Hilton Head, including shopping, dining, and sightseeing. You’ll find everything from high-end stores to mom-and-pop shops. There are also plenty of restaurants to choose from, serving up cuisine from all over the world. And if you’re looking for a little history and culture, Hilton Head has that, too. Museums, art galleries, and theaters are scattered throughout the island.

Hilton Head is a great option if you’re looking for a luxurious suburban area on the waterfront with plenty of things to do.

Isle of Hope

Isle of Hope is a small residential community located just minutes away from Savannah. It’s known for its charming antebellum homes, expansive marshlands, and quiet atmosphere. Many of the homes here are historic homes dating to the 19th and early 20th centuries. The Isle of Hope is on a peninsula surrounded by the intercoastal waterway, so chances are, you can live on waterfront property.

Inside the Isle of Hope, you won’t find a lot of commercial development. This is a place where residents come to kick back after their day spent in Savannah. That said, there are some local seafood restaurants and a barbecue joint. The nearby Norwood Shopping Center meets your daily lifestyle needs and has some more dining options.

If you’re looking for a serene place to live, Isle of Hope is a great option.

Bluffton, SC

Just 20 minutes away from Savannah, Bluffton is a charming town on the South Carolina side of the border. It has a historic district home to many boutiques and art galleries.

It has around 20,000 residents, but Bluffton has a suburban and rural feel. This area is perfect for those who want to live close to the city but still enjoy a small-town feel. 

The local public schools are highly rated, making it a popular place with families. Niche.com ranks it the second-best place to raise a family in the Savannah area.

Whitemarsh Island

Whitemarsh Island is regarded as one of the best places to live in Georgia and often is noted as a great place for families with young children or for retirees. The suburb is located just minutes from Savannah, seven miles by car. It offers residents a quiet and peaceful setting with plenty of things to do.

The community amenities include a senior living community, senior center, recreational facilities, and parks. Many lifestyle amenities are located within walking distance of residential communities.

This area is perfect for families and those who want to live in a safe and friendly community.

Wilmington Island

Drive a little further past Whitemarsh Island, and you’ll land in Wilmington Island. The community is another excellent option for those who want to live close to Savannah. It’s located ten miles away from the city and offers residents a quiet and relaxed lifestyle. 

Wilmington has a scenic coastal setting as the entire neighborhood is on the inlet or the bay. Some call it an “island suburbia.” The community is mostly residential. The houses here range from large to medium single-family homes and apartment complexes.

If you’re looking for a friendly neighborhood with a nautical feeling, Wilmington Island might just be right for you. This area is perfect for those who want to avoid the hustle and bustle of city life.

Richmond Hill

Residents consider Richmond Hill one of Georgia’s best-kept secrets. Auto magnate Henry Ford opted to make Richmond Hill his winter home in 1925 after a single visit. 

Richmond Hill is located about 20-30 minutes away from Savannah and offers a slower pace of life. It’s known for its beautiful parks, excellent schools, and strong community spirit. 

The community is full of Civil War-era history and 1930s architecture. Nearby is the Ogeechee River, and its waterways lead to the ocean. Residents have easy access to fishing, kayaking, and boating.

Richmond Hill is a great choice if you’re looking for a suburban area with plenty of amenities.

Skidaway Island

Skidaway Island is a small, secluded community located about 20 minutes away from Savannah. It’s known for its lush vegetation, tranquil beaches, and excellent schools. This is a place where residents truly feel like they are worlds away from Savannah’s attractions and daily hustle.

One of the reasons for the secluded feel on Skidaway Island is the local state park, which borders the intercoastal waterway. Here there are expansive vistas of the salt marsh and river.

The local village has shops to meet your daily lifestyle needs. It includes a pharmacy, groceries, and a few restaurants. If you’re looking for a quiet place to get away from it all, Skidaway Island is a great option.

Tybee Island

Tybee Island is a popular suburb located about 17 miles away from Savannah. Many residents consider it Savannah’s beach. It’s known for its world-class beaches, excellent restaurants, and lively nightlife. 

Residents come for the five-mile stretch of sands and to relax on those hot Georgia summer days. Public access is available at the quiet North Beach area or, if you enjoy people watching, try South Beach.

Tybee Island residents get to enjoy plenty of great restaurants. There are several casual cafés and Caribbean-influenced bars and dives to keep you coming back. Naturally, being this close to the ocean, you also get access to catch of the day seafood.

While there are not a lot of glitzy hangouts for an island destination, Tybee Island is a busy place after the sun goes down. Residents have a Tybee Island social club, some bars, and live music venues.

If you’re looking for a place with a lively sea town vibe but without packed tourist resorts, Tybee Island is a great choice.

Pooler

This nearby suburb of Savannah was ranked the second happiest city in Georgia by Onlyinyourstate.com. It is a suburban community of over 20,000 located within preserved woodlands. It has an affordable cost of living, lots of shops, and well-maintained parks.

It has a relatively low crime rate and is only about ten miles from Savannah. Pooler also has the advantage of being close to the Savannah airport. The beaches are approximately a 30-minute drive.

Frequently Asked Questions About Best Places To Live In Savannah, GA

Where do families live in Savannah?

Families in Savannah often choose to live in areas that offer a perfect blend of beautiful scenery and convenience, with several popular neighborhoods standing out. Garden City and Port Wentworth are excellent options for families seeking a friendly, suburban atmosphere with easy access to schools, parks, and amenities.

For those looking for a more serene environment, Talahi Island provides a picturesque setting surrounded by natural beauty. It is ideal for families who enjoy the outdoors and have an active lifestyle. The Talahi Island Suburb is particularly appealing for its quiet streets and proximity to the coast.

Hilton Head Island is also a family-friendly community with beautiful beaches and top-rated schools, all within minutes of downtown Savannah. These areas ensure families can enjoy the city’s charm while living in a peaceful environment with beautiful scenery.

What are the best zip codes in Savannah GA?

In Savannah, GA, some of the best zip codes for various property types, housing market trends, and housing costs include:

1. 31401—This zip code covers the Historic District of Savannah, known for its charming, historic homes and vibrant housing market. Property types here mainly include older, renovated homes, townhouses, and luxury condos. Due to its prime location and historical significance, the housing cost in this area tends to be higher.
2. 31405 – Covering areas like Southbridge and West Chatham, this zip code offers a mix of property types, including single-family homes, townhouses, and newer developments. The housing market in 31405 is robust, with moderate housing costs compared to the Historic District, making it a desirable location for families and professionals.
3. 31410 – Located on Wilmington Island, this zip code is popular for its suburban feel with proximity to the coast. Property types here include single-family homes, waterfront properties, and condos. The housing cost is relatively moderate, balancing affordability and coastal living.
4. 31406 – Covering areas like Isle of Hope and Sandfly, 31406 offers a variety of property types, from historic homes to newer constructions. The housing market here is strong, with a range of housing costs, making it suitable for different budgets. The area is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and scenic views.
5. 31419—This zip code includes Georgetown and Richmond Hill, areas known for their suburban developments and family-friendly communities. Property types range from single-family homes to townhouses. With more affordable housing costs than central Savannah, this zip code attracts families and first-time homebuyers.

How’s public transportation in Savannah, GA?

Public transportation in Savannah, GA, is well-supported by a network of major highways and public transit options, making it convenient for residents and visitors to navigate the city and surrounding areas:

• Public Transit: Savannah’s public transit system, operated by Chatham Area Transit (CAT), includes buses that serve the city and surrounding areas, with routes connecting key points of interest, residential neighborhoods, and commercial districts. While public transit provides a reliable option for those without personal vehicles, the system is complemented by the city’s well-maintained roadways and proximity to major highways, making car travel a popular choice for residents.
• Major Highways: For drivers, Savannah is well-connected by several key interstates, including Interstate 95, which runs along the eastern U.S. coast and provides easy access to cities north and south of Savannah. Interstate 16 connects Savannah directly to Macon and Atlanta, offering a straightforward route to the interior of Georgia. Additionally, Interstate 516 serves as a vital spur that connects the city to other parts of the metropolitan area, easing traffic flow and improving access to suburban communities.
• Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport: Located just off Interstate 95, the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport provides convenient air travel options for both domestic and international flights. The airport’s proximity to major highways allows for quick and easy access from various parts of the city and surrounding regions, making it a crucial hub for travelers.

How far away is Savannah from the beach?

Savannah is conveniently located near several beautiful beaches, with the closest being Tybee Island, which is approximately 18 miles (about a 30-minute drive) from downtown Savannah.

This makes it an easy and quick getaway for those looking to enjoy the sand and surf. Other nearby beaches include Hilton Head Island in South Carolina, located about 31 miles away, which takes around 45 minutes to an hour by car. 

Is it expensive to live in Savannah?

Living in Savannah, GA, is moderately priced compared to national averages. The cost of living index in Savannah is 90.2, which is below the U.S. average of 100, indicating that it is generally less expensive than other cities in Peach State.

When it comes to housing, the average monthly rent for an apartment is approximately $1,650. These figures suggest that, while Savannah is more affordable than many other U.S. cities, rental costs can still vary based on the neighborhood and proximity to downtown or historic areas.

How’s the economy and job market in Savannah?

Savannah’s economy and job market are robust, with diverse employment opportunities across various sectors. Key industries such as tourism, logistics, manufacturing, and healthcare drive the city’s economy. The unemployment rate in Savannah is 3%, lower than the national average.

Savannah’s port, one of the busiest in the U.S., plays a significant role in job creation, particularly in logistics and transportation. Major employers like Gulfstream Aerospace and the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) contribute to a wide range of job opportunities in both technical and creative fields.

What are the benefits of living in Savannah?

Living in “The Hostess City of the South,” Savannah, offers the unique benefits of a lower-than-average cost of living paired with the charm of a vibrant historic downtown steeped in rich history as one of the oldest cities in Georgia, Savannah’s historical relevance is evident in its beautifully preserved architecture, cobblestone streets, and iconic squares that date back to its founding in 1733.

This Southern hospitality is reflected in the welcoming community atmosphere that Savannah is famous for. With its walkable downtown, cultural attractions, and proximity to coastal areas like Tybee Island, Savannah offers residents a blend of historical significance, culture, and an inviting lifestyle, making it a truly special place to live.

What is Savannah, GA, known for?

Savannah, GA, is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Here are some highlights of the city:

Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) – A leading institution shaping the city’s arts and culture scene.

Savannah Historic District – Featuring historic architecture, cobblestone streets, and charming squares.

Forsyth Park – A 30-acre green space at the heart of the historic district.

Tybee Island – A nearby coastal destination with beaches, a historic lighthouse, and marine life.

Old Fort Jackson – A historic fort offering insights into Savannah’s military history

Living in Savannah Suburbs

No matter what your needs or interests are, there’s bound to be an area that’s perfect for you. These suburbs offer a variety of amenities, excellent schools, and a relaxed coastal lifestyle. So if you’re looking for a place to call home outside of Savannah, consider one of these charming suburbs. If living in Savannah sounds better to you, check out our moving to Savannah guide.