Pros and Cons of Living in Savannah, Georgia: Highlights and Drawbacks To Consider in the Hostess City of the South

You'll never be bored when you live in Savannah. With beaches like Tybee Island just 20 minutes from the Historic Landmark District (the city’s center), this up-and-coming southern metro has plenty to offer. The best part? It all comes with an affordable cost of living. So, while you’ll find pros and cons of living in Savannah, Georgia, the good definitely outweighs the bad. 

Atlanta might be known as the “Hollywood of the South,” but Savannah has had its fair share of appearances on the big screen. Famous films, including Forrest Gump, Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, and even The Last Song, were all filmed in this city, so you’re likely to recognize a few areas when you’re walking around town. Filmmakers aren’t the only ones who have noticed the city’s appeal, though.

In recent years, both millennials and baby boomers have migrated to Savannah. In 2022 alone, over 15,000 people between the ages of 25 and 44 moved to Savannah. The city was also named one of Forbes’s best places to retire in 2022. Regardless of your age, though, it’s hard not to notice all the history when you walk through the city streets. In fact, there’s a lot you might not know.

Fun Facts About Savannah

• Savannah is the oldest city in Georgia.
• It’s been named one of the most haunted places in America by Travel and Leisure.
• The city was an essential logistical port during the American Revolution and the Civil War, and it’s still an industrial center and important Atlantic seaport today.
• You don’t have to finish your drink at the bar in the historic district of Savannah. The area’s open container laws mean you can walk around the city center with a cocktail in tow.
• Savannah’s Spanish moss is a close cousin to the pineapple.

Pros and Cons of Living in Savannah, Georgia

While there’s clearly a lot to love about living in Savannah, you should also take into consideration the drawbacks before making your move. To give you a clear picture of what life is like in this southern city, here are the main pros and cons of living in Savannah, Georgia. 

The historic Bonaventure Cemetery is believed to have been the inspiration behind John Berendt's novel and film "Midnight in the Garden Of Good And Evil."
(Source: Bonaventure Cemetery via Facebook)

Pro: History Abounds in Savannah

Almost three centuries old, Savannah is regarded as a living historical city. It's a place where the past meets the present to form a unique cultural scene. While there are many historical wonders in the city, these must-visit spots are some of our favorites.

Bonaventure Cemetery

One of the most popular places in the city is the Bonaventure Cemetery — a beautiful multi-acre plot of land established in 1846. It even acts as the setting for some parts of John Berendt's non-fiction novel and film "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil."

Factors Walk

The area known as Factors Walk is an old commercial district that used to be the center of the cotton factories in Savannah. The name of the area's walk is based on the iron ramps that the cotton merchants (aka “factors”) used to travel on. Today, you’ll find an abundance of cafes, shops, and restaurants to explore. 

Telfair Museums

Telfair Museums is the oldest public art museum in the South. You can explore Savannah’s history through the Telfair family’s art collection and home furnishings, located throughout the property’s three buildings — the Telfair Academy; the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters; and the Jepson Center & Telfair Children's Art Museum. 

Opened in July 2023, the Telfair Children’s Art Museum is the property’s newest addition. It features constantly changing exhibitions and is a great place for families to visit.

Con: Though Not the Worst, Crime Rates in Savannah Are a Concern

Even though it doesn’t rank among the country’s most dangerous cities, the overall crime rate in Savannah is 15 percent higher than the national average. The city’s violent crime rate is 29 percent higher and its property crime rate is 12 percent higher.

However, crime tends to be concentrated in certain parts of the city and there are certainly safe areas to live in Savannah. According to NeighborhoodScout, the safest neighborhoods in Savannah are Wilmington Park, South Harbor, and Berwick Plantation. 

Savannah is situated in an area that's prone to hurricanes, which can cause some residents to feel anxious whenever a storm approaches.
(Source: City of Savannah Government via Facebook)

Con: Humidity and Hurricanes Are a Drawback From the Warm Weather

The summer season in Savannah can be very humid and hot, with temperatures reaching into the high 90s. It’s one of the worst things about living in Savannah, GA, and it can affect your overall ability to enjoy outdoor activities during the warmer months.

The city is also situated in an area prone to hurricanes, which can cause some residents to feel anxious whenever a storm approaches. Although the city has a hurricane plan in place, it's never an easy thing to deal with.

Pro: Beautiful Homes and Great Neighborhoods Call for a High Quality Lifestyle

The architecture of Savannah is both unique and beautiful. There are a variety of styles that can be found in the city, and each of these can vary depending on the neighborhood.

Craftsman style homes are based on the Arts and Crafts movement, and are among the most prominent within Savannah. They feature natural materials, including brick, wood, and stone. Mid-century modern and contemporary architecture in Savannah is also common.

During the 1600-1700s, there were various styles of Colonial architecture, characterized by its symmetry. This type of architecture also usually features evenly spaced windows. The Georgian Colonial is a simpler style than the Federal Colonial, which is characterized by strict symmetry and a box shape with multiple windows.

The best places to live in Savannah, GA, include: 

• Dutch Island: Dutch Island is a family-friendly community located along the Intracoastal Waterway, and its residents are dedicated to preserving the area's natural beauty. Its social center features a community pool and a snack bar, as well as a large deck that's ideal for entertaining.
• Richmond Hill: Richmond Hill is situated on the Atlantic coast and offers its residents a relaxed vibe. Here, you'll find beautiful beaches and numerous military personnel homes. Although many military personnel and young professionals from other countries have made their homes in Richmond Hill, the area still maintains a unique small-town feel. It also hosts various festivals and events, including the Spring Fling and the Christmas Parade.
• Wilmington Island: The peaceful appeal of the Lowcountry and the Georgia coast can be found on Wilmington Island — making it ideal for retirees. The Wilmington Island area is well known for its peaceful atmosphere with beautiful beach surroundings. The communities on the island are situated in an area with easy access to the Port of Savannah and downtown.

The historical significance of Savannah in particular draws in tourists from all around the world, not to mention the city’s annual events and other attractions.
(Source: Visit Savannah via Facebook)

Con: Tourism Season Can Cause Disturbances for Residents

The historical significance of Savannah draws in tourists from all around the world. Although it is a major contributor to the city's economy, tourism can also cause traffic problems in the historic district. The sudden influx of visitors can affect the daily lives of residents, making it a necessity to plan ahead when commute times are longer. As spring is the busy season, residents might find it hard to enjoy the nicer weather in crowded parts of the city as a result of the increase in visitors.

Pro: Families Can Rely on Quality Schools That Include Local Higher Education Options as Well

Although many of Savannah’s highest-ranked schools are private, there are still plenty of great public schools to rely on within the city. The Savannah Country Day School and St. Andrew’s School are among the top private school options available, while the Effingham County Schools and Savannah-Chatham County Public School system are the top public school options available, according to Niche. 

Located in the heart of the historic city of Savannah, The Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) offers a unique education to its students. It has grown to become a respected art and design university that provides more than 100 programs in varying areas.

Con: Savannah’s Public Transportation Is Limited

Compared to other cities, the public transportation system in Savannah is not as robust as it could be. The CAT provides bus services throughout the city, but these routes can be limited in scope and frequency, making it hard for people without cars to get around — especially in areas with more suburban communities. On a positive note, the city does have bike-friendly neighborhoods and downtown areas where you can get by without a car.

Pro: Outdoor Recreation & Abundant Beaches Are Right at Your Fingertips

One of the top pros out of all the pros and cons of living in Savannah, Georgia, is the amazing beach lifestyle. The city of Savannah is located near the coast, providing residents with easy access to outdoor activities. Residents can go fishing, swimming, or simply relax on the beach at Tybee Island, which is only 20 minutes away. The city also has numerous parks and rivers that are great for different types of outdoor recreation.

You can stroll along the beach's north shore and look for shells and other interesting objects. If you enjoy birdwatching, you’ll be pleased to learn that Tybee Island and North Beach are part of the Colonial Coast Birding Trail.

Another one of the area's most popular spots is Back River Beach, with its abundance of great seafood restaurants. Here, you can enjoy a meal of mussels, crabs, and shrimp at delectable spots, including A-J's Dockside.

Con: Walkability Isn’t the City’s Strong Suit

The walkability in Savannah is not as high as in other major cities, and the city only has a walk score of 44 overall. This means that visitors may have a hard time navigating the city on foot, with many parks and squares that separate the various neighborhoods. While some neighborhoods may be more walkable than others, most residents will likely need a car to get around. 

If you're craving authentic southern food, try Mrs. Wilkes' Dining Room, where you can enjoy a variety of dishes such as sweet tea, fried chicken, and cornbread.
(Caption: Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room via Facebook)

Pro: Savannah Offers Great Southern Dining Experiences

While there are plenty of different kinds of restaurants in Savannah — from fine dining establishments to casual eateries —Savannah is a particularly great place to enjoy southern favorites like shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, pralines, sweet tea, cornbread, and so much more.

Some of the best local restaurants include Treylor Park, which serves up southern favorites with a modern twist, and the Olde Pink House, known for its fine seafood and fireplace-adjacent dining. If you're craving authentic southern food, try Mrs. Wilkes' Dining Room, where you can enjoy a variety of dishes served family-style, including sweet tea, fried chicken, and cornbread.

Con: Traveling by Plane Can Create Challenges

While the “cute and tiny” Savannah/Hilton Head International is a fraction of the size of major airports, it’s still more convenient than not having an airport nearby. Still, the airport’s small size can make it difficult (or impossible) to find connecting flights or flights to far-off locations. All this is to say that Savannah might not be the most ideal location to live for those who travel often — whether for work or leisure. 

Pro: Savannah's Historic District Is a Beautiful Spot To Spend Time In

Savannah’s Historic Landmark District is known for its many impressive buildings, which showcase various architectural styles, including Greek Revival, Federal, and Georgian. Strolling through the city's streets is like visiting a historical museum in real life. One of our favorite spots? The notable Forsyth Park, with fountains modeled after the Place de la Concorde in Paris. 

Con: Sand Gnats Are a Nuisance

Sand gnats are commonly referred to as "no-see-ums," due to their tiny size, and are found in various locations in greater Savannah, including the suburbs. These pests are a real nuisance and, while some products can repel sand gnats, others might not provide the relief you’re looking for. One of the best ways to keep sand gnats at bay is to use products with citronella.

Other pests that can be commonly found in this area include horse flies and mosquitoes — especially near water and in marshy areas.

St. Simons Island is a resort destination that's ideal for those seeking a more relaxing vacation.
(Source: St. Simons Island, Georgia via Facebook)

Pro: Day Trip Options Are Plentiful When You Live in Savannah

South Carolina's most popular state park is Hunting Island — it attracts over one million visitors a year and is just an hour and a half away from Savannah. After crossing the bridge, you'll find over 100 campsites, a maritime forest, a lighthouse, and five miles of beaches — an ideal place for nature lovers.

On the other hand, St. Simons Island is a resort destination that's ideal for those seeking a more relaxing vacation. It has seven miles of stellar beaches and a variety of restaurants and bars. Public access points to the island can be found at Gould's Inlet and the Visitor Center.

Hilton Head, SC, is even closer to Savannah — just 45 minutes away — and provides access to over 12 miles of gorgeous oceanfront beaches. The area is very developed, with lots of hotels, shopping, grocery stores, and more. 

Con: Parking and Driving in the City Can Be a Real Drag

If you are planning on moving to Savannah, Georgia, but don't like dealing with traffic, bad drivers, and lack of parking spaces, it may not be the best idea to relocate. Parking can be a hassle, and it’s only free on Sundays. The city’s low walk score doesn’t help, since it means that most residents rely on cars to get around.

Comparing the Pros and Cons of Living in Savannah, Georgia — Is It Worth It?

If you love an affordable lifestyle, beautiful beaches, warm weather, great food, and fascinating history (and are okay with the low walkability score, large crowds during certain seasons, and occasional weather concerns) you’ll likely love your time living in Savannah. 

Make Your Move to Savannah, GA, With the Help of PODS

Once you’re ready to make your move to the Hostess City of the South, let PODS help you get there. Have a portable moving and storage container delivered right to your driveway, where you can load the container at your own pace. PODS can even refer you to local packing and loading services to help with the heavy lifting. Once you’re ready, your PODS container will be picked up and transported to your new home in Savannah, GA. One month’s storage is built into every move, so you never have to feel rushed.

Editor’s note: For ease of reading, monthly rental prices were rounded to the nearest $25 and home values were rounded to the nearest $100.