Cost of Living in Savannah, GA
Savannah costs about the same as the national average.
What Things Cost
Compared to the US average (100)
Census ACS 2024
Census ACS 2024
BEA RPP 2023
BEA RPP 2023
Savannah at a Glance
On the median income of $55,907, state income tax is roughly $3,013/year.
Sources: Census ACS 2024, Tax Foundation.
Savannah is one of the most beautiful cities in America, and it costs a fraction of comparable coastal destinations. The Historic District, with its 22 park-like squares draped in Spanish moss, is a living work of art that functions as a real neighborhood, not a museum. The median home price of about $275,000 buys into a city that draws millions of visitors annually for its architecture, food, and atmosphere. SCAD (Savannah College of Art and Design) has infused the city with creative energy without displacing its Southern character.
How People Get Around
Source: Census ACS 2024.
Who Lives Here
Source: Census ACS 2024.
Why People Move to Savannah
The beauty is genuine and daily, not just for tourists. Living within the Historic District means walking to restaurants, parks, and River Street through one of the most architecturally intact urban landscapes in the country. SCAD has transformed the arts scene. The food culture is deep: shrimp and grits, lowcountry boils, and a growing fine dining scene. Tybee Island beach is 20 minutes away. The cost of living is about 7.5% below the national average.
Neighborhoods
The Historic District is the crown jewel with squares, restaurants, and walkable beauty. Starland District south of downtown has become SCAD's creative hub. Ardsley Park and Midtown offer more residential character. Tybee Island is the beach community. For affordable options, Georgetown and Thunderbolt offer lower prices near the water.
Things to Consider
Savannah is small (population about 150,000). The job market is limited: tourism, SCAD, the port, and military (Hunter Army Airfield) are the main employers. Summer heat and humidity are intense. Mosquitoes are aggressive. Hurricane risk is real for this coastal city. Some areas outside the Historic District have significant poverty and crime. The tourist crowds, particularly on St. Patrick's Day, can overwhelm the city.
Frequently Asked Questions About Savannah
Yes. The cost of living is about 7.5% below the national average. Median home prices around $302,200 are remarkably low for a city of this beauty and tourism draw. A historic apartment in the district rents for $1,200-1,800. For comparison, a comparable experience in Charleston (the nearest peer city) costs 30-50% more.
Savannah has a real residential community alongside the tourism economy. The Historic District is a functioning neighborhood where people live, work, and walk their dogs. SCAD brings thousands of students and creative professionals. The port is one of the busiest on the East Coast. But tourism is a dominant economic force, and the downtown area can feel tourist-heavy, especially during events.
Both are beautiful coastal Southern cities with historic architecture and excellent food. Charleston is larger, more expensive, and has a stronger job market. Savannah is smaller, more affordable, and arguably more architecturally cohesive. Charleston's median home prices are 50-60% higher. Both share hot, humid summers and hurricane risk. The choice often comes down to whether you prefer Charleston's scale and polish or Savannah's intimacy and arts culture.