Looks like you’re considering moving to Savannah, Georgia, and you want to know ALL the insider secrets before you make a decision. You have come to the right place!
Read on along to find insider secrets about what it is like to live in this beautiful city with a rich history. We’ll explore everything from the schools, neighbourhoods, cultural attractions, recreation and more! Whether you’re looking for new career opportunities or just want to move somewhere new, we hope our tips will help answer any questions that may arise!
Psst, you’ll also find out why your dog (yes, your dog!) would want to move to Savannah! 😉
But first, a little nugget of history!
Savannah’s Rich History
Savannah is one of the oldest cities in America and has a rich history. It was established by James Oglethorpe, who wanted to create an English colony in Georgia. The city’s layout is based on his military training, where he studied artilleries and fortifications.
Once a trade hub for cotton (which led to huge wealth during slavery times), Savannah today is a popular tourist destination, especially during Mardi Gras season.
You can take a glimpse into the city’s past; Savannah offers various historical sites, including the Savannah riverfront (which has been in Savannah since 1733 and was once known as Savannah waterworks) and historic homes.
1. Neighborhoods You Should Know
OK, so the first step in planning your move would be to choose where you want to live. Savannah is great because the cost of living there is rather affordable. Neighbourhoods in Savannah offer their own charms, so whether you are an individual or have a family, Savannah has something for everyone when it comes to housing and real estate options.
Historic District (Downtown Savannah)
If cobblestone streets, manicured gardens, and impressive architecture is your cup of tea, the Downtown Savannah is perfect for you! It offers quaint one-room cottage style homes with their own front porch and backyard! These houses also range from $170k to $250k. Residents of this district come from all walks of life, including students, CEOs, artists, doctors, and service industry professionals. Some districts in the Downtown Historic District include Victorian District, Thomas Square / Starland Districts and Baldwin Park.
Southside Savannah
A great place to live if you want to be close to your family is the Southside Savannah which has many single-family cottages that have been passed down through generations or newly constructed townhouses built by preservationists who wanted them exactly like they were back when people first started living there at the turn of the century! Single-family detached homes start at $150K, while townhomes vary between $200k -$300K+. Neighbourhoods in Southside Savannah include Isle of Hope, Habersham Woods, Coffee Bluff and Skidaway Island. This district is also home to Savannah Mall, so you can shop till you drop!
West End Savannah
Consisting of neighbourhoods like Georgetown, Southbridge and West Chatham County, West End Savannah is a refreshing place to live if you want to be close to the beach for walks along coastal boulevards. The West end community has many different styles of homes, from Victorian-style townhomes with building materials that are over 100 years old to brand new modern construction cottages on swampland! Some properties also have private tennis courts/gyms, so it gives them an edge when it comes to pricing as well!
2. Education In Savannah: Schools And Colleges
If you are a parent, your children’s education would surely be an important factor in your decision to relocate. Not to worry, though, because Savannah is home to Savannah State University, a Historically Black College and University (HBCU). It also has the best public school system, which starts at the kindergarten level. There are tons of other schools that you can choose from, such as private schools or religious ones if you prefer those over public schools!
Colleges and higher education institutions in Savannah include the Savannah College of Art and Design aka SCAD (which was ranked in Niche’s list of Best Colleges 2017 and 2018), Georgia Southern University and University of West Georgia.
3. Getting Around Savannah: Transportation
With various public transportation options, there is no shortage of options for getting around Savannah! (Plus, you’ll save money on gas!)
- Chatham Area Transit (CAT) – 15 fixed bus routes in Savannah and Chatham County
- dot Shuttle – a fare-free service serving 24 stops in the Historic District and the Savannah Belles Ferry
- Express Shuttle – runs every 10 minutes, serving 18 stops around the Historic District
Alternatively, you can also cycle around the city! Savannah has been awarded the Bronze Level Bicycle-Friendly Community by the League of American Bicyclists, so rest assured you’ll be able to cycle with minimal hiccups!
Drivers should note that traffic can be difficult to navigate during peak traffic hours (as in most places), but it’s always flowing smoothly on the outskirts of Savannah!
4. Comparable Job Market
If you decide to relocate to Savannah, then you don’t have to worry about the job market because Savannah has an unemployment rate of seven per cent, which is lower than the national average.
The Savannah region houses Fortune 500 companies, international employers, and headquarter locations. Industries range from aerospace manufacturers like Gulfstream Aerospace to specialty food and beverage manufacturers and health tech companies.
If that’s not enough, there are also many seasonal jobs for students or retirees who might be looking for a side hustle!
Now, on to the fun stuff in Savannah!
5. Attractions For The History Buffs
Savannah has a proud history, beautiful architecture and an abundance of cultural attractions. Believe us when we tell you that living here will make you feel like you’re walking through a museum every day! Whether you’re a history buff or not, the historic homes, buildings and landmarks all around will be a feast for your eyes at every turn!
The Savannah Historic District is full of beautiful historic buildings, parks, and more:
- Bonaventure Cemetery (which has over 150 years’ worth of history)
- Forsyth Park (a Savannah landmark with tons of great views/shade)
- City Market (where locals go for fresh produce)
- River Street (which hosts events such as historical reenactments on certain days)
- MacCallum House Museum
- Jepson Center for the Arts
6. Parks And Beaches In Savannah (There Are SO MANY)
Compared to places like Colorado Springs, Austin, or Dallas, Savannah is one of the cities blessed with an abundance of nature. Believe it or not, Savannah has more than 100 parks that offer both beautiful scenery and recreational activities! These parks range from small neighbourhood parks to the huge Forsyth Park that can even hold outdoor concerts! You’ll have no problem finding a place for everyone in your family to enjoy themselves because Savannah is home to so much green space!
The city’s seven miles (11 km) of coastline on Savannah Bay offers something for every taste when it comes to beaches – whether you’re looking for surfing waves, sand dunes, salt marshes or deep-sea fishing opportunities. No wonder people from all over the country come to Savannah just for a vacation!
7. Golfing And Water Sports! (Recreational Activities)
If you’re into golfing, then Savannah is the perfect city for you! Here are some golf courses near you if you’re moving to Savannah:
- The Club at Savannah Harbor
- Crosswinds Golf Club
- Savannah Country Club
- Bacon Park Golf Course
There are also plenty of other public parks to enjoy, such as Stone Mountain Park or Callahan Point, which offer hiking trails, water sports like kayaking/canoeing or horseback riding, so you’re sure to pick up a new hobby!
8. Foodies, Rejoice! Delicious Dining Awaits You In Savannah
Savannah was recently named one of the top food cities in America. With so many new restaurants and local vendors popping up all over town, the city has become one of those cities that offers something for everyone in terms of cuisine. From savoury dishes like shrimp and grits or seafood boils on Tybee Island to desserts like pecan pie ice cream sandwiches for those with a sweet tooth, there really is something for everyone!
Some notable restaurants you may want to check out:
- Crystal Beer Parlor
- The Pirates’ House
- Treylor Park
- The Ordinary Pub
- The Olde Pink House
- Driftaway Cafe
- Sandfly Bar-B-Q
9. Events And Festivals Galore!
Living in Savannah will be far from mundane, with the events and festivals organised all year round. The events and festivals include car shows, the weekly Forsyth Farmers’ Market, bodybuilding competitions, the Southeast Crab Feast, Savannah Voice Festival, Tybee Island Independence Day Celebration and more!
St Patrick’s Day In Savannah
Savannah has a rich Irish heritage because of the many immigrants that came to Savannah during the great potato famine. As such, you can find all sorts of celebrations for St Patrick’s Day – from the traditional corned beef and cabbage dinner on March 17th to Savannah’s annual parade, which takes place every first Sunday in March.
Once you’ve settled into your new home in Savannah, be sure to check out the events and festivals in your area!
10. Believe It Or Not, Your Dog Would LOVE To Move To Savannah!
Savannah is a city that really embraces its four-legged friends. From the many dog parks to Savannah’s annual dog parade (in celebration of our canine companions), there are plenty of opportunities for your pup right here in Savannah!
There are also plenty of dog-friendly restaurants in Savannah!
Conclusion About Moving To Savannah
Savannah is a wonderful place to live and has so much to offer – from the beautiful parks to the historic squares, festivals and great restaurants! So don’t let moving stress get you down when Sanelo is here for all your moving needs.
Wondering about moving to cities near the area? Check out our articles about moving to Jacksonville, Charleston and Atlanta.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Moving To Savannah
How Much Would It Cost To Move To Savannah?
You may want a binding quote or a not-to-exceed estimate so you can be sure that everything’s under control during your move there. It’s better to be safe than sorry, right? Contact us at +65 3138 5273 today for a free estimate!
What’s The Weather Like In Savannah?
As Savannah is located on the Atlantic coast, it has warm, humid summers that may reach 91 degrees F and mild winters of about 39 degrees F (hence snow is rare!). In spring and fall, temperatures can fluctuate quite a bit throughout the day. You’d also likely see less rain in Savannah as the average rainfall here is less than that of the US average.
Should I Hire A Professional Mover If I Decide To Move To Savannah?
Yes! Hiring professional movers can save you lots of time and make your moving process smoother, thanks to their specialised tools and logistics! At Sanelo, we are committed to giving exceptional moving experiences and services to our valued clients. If you need moving services, contact us today!
Sanelo offers international moving and local moving, so no matter where you’re from, you can engage Sanelo when you move to Savannah.
How Far in Early Should I Book Movers?
Whether you are planning for an Interstate Move or Moving Internationally, make sure that you schedule for an advance booking so as to ensure a seamless relocation process. Learn more about Sanelo and how we can make your moving experience more enjoyable!