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 planning 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, greenery, and landscaping, 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 National Historic Landmark Districts by the U.S. government in 1966. 

Its proximity to Atlantic Ocean beaches, easy access to coastal islands, the historic Savannah Riverfront, and other popular tourist destinations undoubtedly led to Savannah being designated one of “The Top 10 Cities in the United States” by Travel + Leisure magazine.

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 “2021 Best Places to Live in the Savannah Area.” We’ve also included local food tips to get a taste of what each offers. 

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

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

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

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

This shoe-shaped island is located in South Carolina, 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 U.S. 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 also boasts easy living, and many amenities for all walks of life.

Local Food Tips: The Skull Creek Boathouse Landmark Waterfront Restaurant has some of the most beautiful sunset and water views. For a more casual atmosphere, check out Java Burrito Company for fresh, authentic Mexican cuisine. 

Known for its historic plantations and waterfront properties, Isle of Hope is surrounded by tidal inlets. Referred by early maps as “L'Isle Desperance,” legend states pirates often used the island to hide buried treasures.

Technically designated a peninsula, Isle of Hope boasts homes of various architectural styles, such as Greek Revival, Victorian Eclectic, Neoclassical, and Craftsman Bungalow. It’s also known for rich oak, palms, and other trees offering cool, shady areas.  

The 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: For casual, coastal cuisine, visit Driftaway Cafe for lunch, brunch, or dinner, and to sample its famed Tybee Tuna entree. Located not far from neighboring Skidaway Island, locals rave about Loc’s Chicken & Waffles for breakfast and lunch specialties. 

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

Known for its mission of taking care of its citizens, the town, and each other, Bluffton is located in the heart of so-called “low country,” boasting single-family homes, condominiums, and historic cottages. There’s also no shortage of culture, events, and shopping in Bluffton—with its 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: With a second location in nearby Hilton Head Island, Local Pie is known for its Neapolitan-style, wood-fired pizza and other Italian specialties made with locally sourced ingredients. For tacos, burgers, and cocktails in a fun, casual setting, head over to Chow Daddy’s for family-friendly dining.

With a population of around 7,000 residents, this moderately sized coastal town is situated at the Georgia-South Carolina border at the mouth of the Savannah River. Downtown Savannah lies about 30 minutes to the west, with Tybee Island beaches to the east. 

Residents also enjoy easy access to the many shops, museums, and restaurants located just 15 minutes away in downtown Savannah. 

Local Food Tips: The local mainstay Tubby’s Tank House is known for fresh seafood and other Southern culinary treats. For Georgia’s best barbecue, check out Wiley’s Championship BBQ, and purchase a bottle of their house-made sauce!

Situated between the town of Thunderbolt and Tybee Island, Wilmington Island boasts 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 also partake in various 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. 

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

Bordering the area’s plentiful marshes, most homes boast a traditional stucco exterior to bungalow styles and beachfront condominiums. The area has a community feel, with several seasonal, family-friendly activities.

Local Food Tips: For a bit of celebrity fare, check out celebrity chef Paula Deen’s Creek House & Seafood Grill for fresh fish and steaks. Current Kitchen & Cocktails is also worth a visit for its outdoor patio and large barbecue pit.

Catering 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 Richmond Hill his winter retreat for many years, which has left a lasting historical impression.

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.  

As one of the fastest-growing U.S. communities, Richmond Hill’s proximity to I-95 and Fort Stewart are 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 Himalayan Curry Kitchen for cooked-to-order Indian dishes and a plentiful lunch buffet. Known as an old-school pub, Molly MacPherson’s Scottish Pub & Grill has some of the area’s most extensive single-malt scotches, beers, and traditional Scottish fare.

Built around the Al Henderson Golf Course, this Savannah-area neighborhood boasts single-family homes and condominiums for a rural lifestyle, with close access to city amenities and offerings. 

Founded in 1677 by brothers William, James, and Robert Montgomery, the trio failed to maintain a permanent dwelling due to poor location and illness. Despite this misfortune, Montgomery still retained its names, as well as Old Montgomery Road, Montgomery Street, and Montgomery Crossroad.  

With a population of just over 4,500, its rural atmosphere still retains its local community environment, with downtown Savannah just 20 minutes away. 

Local Food Tip: Try Kim Chi II Korean restaurant for eclectic Korean food in a family-friendly environment. 

The Takeaway

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

Contact Contour Mortgage in Richmond Hill, Georgia, to learn how we can help with your financing requirements, qualifications, and questions.