Located on the sunny coast near the Georgia/South Carolina border, Savannah boasts a lively community with tons of activities to do and places to see year-round.
If you’re more a fan of peaceful relaxation and recharging with nature, Savannah’s got that too!
Let’s explore everything that makes living in Savannah so unique — including the weather, activities, public transportation options, schools, and some of the many neighborhoods.
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Weather in Savannah, GA
Savannah is on the southern Atlantic coast, so it offers a warm, humid summer and mild winters. If you’re a fan of ”the best of both worlds”, Savannah is an excellent choice.
Savannah has an average of 216 sunny days per year.– more than the United States average of 205. So, if you love sunny days, you’re in luck!
Temperature
During the summer and winter, the temperatures are typically more constant. In the spring and fall, however, they can vary throughout the day as well as from day to day. For example, you can expect temperatures in the upper 80’sin the summer and temperatures in the lower 40sin the winter.
Typically, the hottest temperature recorded during the summer in Savannah is 91 in July. The lowest temperature recorded during the winter is 39 F.
Precipitation
Savannah is humid and gets an average rainfall of 49 inches per year. This is greater than the United States average of 39 inches. Because it never really gets cold in Savannah, it rarely snows (and so there is no record of average snowfall). So, the only type of precipitation you really need to prepare for is rain. We hope you are bringing an umbrella with you!
Things to Do in Savannah, GA
If you’re thinking about moving to Savannah, you probably want to know what you can look forward to doing with your free time — we know we are! From peaceful walks through a park to fine dining to memorable nightlife adventuring, we’re positive that you’ll find something you love doing in Savannah.
So, let’s jump right into some of the things you can do in Savannah, GA. And trust us, there is something for everyone!
The Arts and History
It is no surprise that a city that is well-known for art has a love for, the arts.Here are just a few places to check out!
The Lucas and Savannah Theaters
Both theaters are a go-to stop for anyone looking for something a little more upbeat. There are always exciting shows happening at both theaters, so be sure to check what is showing if you are looking for something to do with friends or family!
Cathedral of St. John the Baptist
This absolutely stunning church serves as both a place for prayer and a fantastic example of French Gothic architecture. This makes the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist a must-see stop for individuals of all backgrounds and interests and makes it a frequent stop for those who love architecture!
Telfair Museum of Art
This museum is actually a collection of three different buildings. Each building contains an amazing collection of artwork — from classic works to more cutting-edge exhibits. For example, the Jepson Center for the Arts contains the famous Elvis exhibit.
All three of the buildings are within walking distance of each other, so if you’re looking for a great way to spend your day, you can take a laid-back stroll through the different exhibits.
Outdoors
If you’re a fan of fresh air and gorgeous weather, Savannah has some great activities for you in your free time. Whether you’re a lover of swimming, walking, biking, or even fishing, there are endless opportunities to enjoy the outdoors in Savannah.
Here we’ll highlight some of the most common ones, but know that we’re just barely scratching the surface of all the outdoor activities in Savannah here!
Forsyth Park
Forsyth Park is an amazing 30-acre park named after Georgia’s 33rd governor. It has the city’s most famous fountain, which was installed in 1858 at the park’s northern edge. If you’re looking for a beautiful, quiet walk through a park, this is the place for you.
Many days on the path to the fountain, you can see local artisans, art students, people walking their dogs, and even readers cozying up in hammocks with a book. If you have kids, there are also two playgrounds further into the park, and the east side of the park has a concert and event space!
Tybee Beach
Ocean lovers, get ready for a fantastic time. Because Savannah is on the coast, you have your pick of amazing beaches. Tybee Island is the go-to location for most beach lovers in Savannah. It’s got a few different beaches to choose from, and you can try them all out to find your favorite.
If you’re looking for the full beach experience (with a pavilion, snacks, shade, and a pier for fishing), you’ll want to head over to South Beach. If you’d rather find shells and see dolphins, then North Beach is the way to go. And if you’re not so much for a big crowded space, one of the other beaches around the island will be the best for you.
Golfing
If you’re a fan of golfing, then you’ll love Savannah. There are plenty of amazing courses close by. If you’re looking for places to play in Savannah itself, then The Club at Savannah Harbor or the Savannah Country Club are perfect for you.
On the other hand, if you don’t mind a little drive, you can cross over the bridge into South Carolina’s Low Country. This puts you right near Hilton Head and Bluffton, which are both a golfer’s paradise!
Water Sports
Maybe you don’t like golf. That is fine! Savannah has a number of amazing options for water sports to help you beat that summer heat. Whether you want to stay in Savannah or drive over to Hilton Head for kayaking, paddle boarding, fishing, or boating, there are many options.
If you want to explore the gorgeous clear waters of Tybee Island, you can do so with Reel Em’ N Deep Sea Fishing Charters. This area has year-round fishing and calm sea conditions. Also, it’s only 15 minutes away from the Historic Downtown area of Savannah!
Food
Alright, we can’t talk about all of the great places to go in Savannah and not mention places to eat! Whether you’re a lover of fine dining or hole-in-the-wall eateries, you’re sure to find a new favorite in Savannah.
Some well-known places that we recommend adding to your list are:
- Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room
- Alligator Soul
- Paula Deen’s Creek House
- The Olde Pink House
- Alley Cat Lounge
- Leopold’s Ice Cream
Shopping
Whether you need a break from outdoor activities or you simply love to walk through stores perusing new items, you’ll have plenty of options in Savannah!
Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) Shop
That’s right, Savannah’s most well-known college has a permanent shop on Bull Street that is always a hit with locals and visitors alike. The shop is always full of unique and carefully crafted artwork made by the talented community of artists living in Savannah. Everything in the store is designed and made by SCAD students, faculty, and alumni.
City Market
The open-air City Market was established in the 1700s and has stood as the go-to place for dining, shopping, entertainment, and engaging nightlife since then. You can find art galleries, local shops, delicious meals, and unique home decor or gifts in this market.
Broughton Street
If you’re a serious shopper, then Broughton Street is the place to go. This street houses many small boutiques and local shops and makes an excellent stop for anyone looking to find the perfect souvenir. There are also a number of places to get delicious food (and ice cream) along the way, so don’t worry about going hungry!
Public Transit in Savannah
If you’re not a fan of driving, don’t worry! Savannah is very walkable and bike-friendly and has a number of public transportation options. You can access a number of bus routes through the CAT system for a small fee, and the DOT (Downtown Transportation) offers free shuttle and ferry services around the Historic District. These stop at the major tourist attractions around the city.
Maybe you’re looking to do a little traveling outside of Savannah too. In this case, Amtrak’s Silver Service and Palmetto trains can get you anywhere between New York and Miami! Lastly, the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport is just west of Savannah, down I-95.
Affordability of Living in Savannah
Moving can be expensive, and the last thing you want is to feel like you won’t have enough in your new home. Well, we have good news for you! Savannah, GA, is extremely affordable.
The average cost of living is actually 10% lower than the national average. But, more importantly, the housing in Savannah is 33% lower than the national average in Savannah! The average home in Savannah is $268,545. With these averages, you might actually have an easier time finding somewhere to live in Savannah than you did where you’re coming from!
Schools in Savannah
The most well-known school in Savannah is the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). This said, Savannah Technical College and South University-Savannah are both quite well-known and offer amazing programs as well.
Some of the most popular majors in Savannah (according to the number of students) are:
- Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics, and Special Effects
- Family Practice Nurse
- Digital Communications and Multimedia
As an art city at heart, the art education programs in Savannah, especially at SCAD, are top-notch.
But, if you have children and are not looking into colleges yet, the Savannah-Chatham County Public School System (SCCPSS) is well-rated by teachers, parents, and students alike.
Main Neighborhoods in Savannah
Just like any other city, there are a number of neighborhoods in Savannah to choose from. Of course, the best neighborhoods for you will depend on your preferences and needs. This said, here, we’ll highlight just a few of the most sought-after neighborhoods that you’ll want to keep in mind.
- Downtown Savannah — this is where the history of Savannah really shines. It is also in the middle of everything. So, if you want to be close to museums, hundred-year-old homes, endless food options, and the 22 historic squares, Downtown Savannah is the place to be.
- Ardsley Park — as one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city, Ardsley Park has an abundance of old-time charm. It is also the most family-friendly neighborhood in Savannah due to its more relaxed nature and huge properties that are perfect for families.
- Tybee Island — if you’re looking to be close to the ocean and away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Tybee Island is the neighborhood for you. This family-friendly area has many fun and interesting shops and is the perfect place to relax and recharge as well.
- Dutch Island — anyone looking to live in the area but in a more close-knit community should check out Dutch Island. The Dutch Island neighborhood gives a more rural feel and is surrounded by nature for those of you who love hiking and being outdoors all the time.
Is Savannah, GA, Right for You?
Unfortunately, we can’t answer this question for you. What you are looking for will depend on your needs and goals in your life. But one thing we do know is that Savannah, GA has a ton of interest, and no matter what you’re looking to do with your life, it’s a great place to live!
If you’ve gotten inspired to look for your next home in Savannah, GA, check out some available listings here!
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