Why You Should Retire in Savannah, GA
Congratulations — you’ve decided it’s time to retire! This is an exciting new chapter where you finally have the time to do the things you’ve been putting off. Maybe your children are already on their own, and you may even have grandchildren to spoil. Like many retirees, you might also be looking for the ideal new home in a welcoming city with beautiful weather, plenty to do, and smart financial advantages.
Welcome to that city… Savannah, GA!
Savannah, also called the Hostess City, and her surrounding communities are a thriving part of a metro area referred to as the Coastal Empire. Savannah is Georgia’s fifth-largest city, and the metro area is the state’s third-largest. It’s large enough to offer all the conveniences of modern life, yet small and charming enough to feel personal and inviting — a great combination for retirees.
Enjoy Mild Coastal Weather
The weather in Savannah is ideal for many retirees. Winters are generally mild and sunny, with high temperatures in the upper 50s and low 60s. Winter lows typically hover in the low 40s, with rare freezing temperatures and hardly any snow. Warmer weather begins in March and lasts through November, with hot summers marked by highs in the upper 80s and 90s and frequent (often brief) afternoon showers.
All of this means more opportunities to enjoy the outdoors — whether that’s walking in your neighborhood, playing with grandkids at the park, or relaxing on your porch.
Plenty to Do in and Around Savannah
It’s easy to stay busy and engaged in Savannah. One popular hub for retirees is Senior Citizens Inc., which offers neighborhood centers and regular activities. Programming may include classes, lunchtime lectures, wellness programs, and group excursions designed specifically for older adults.
If you love to learn, Georgia also offers a unique perk: residents over age 65 can take college courses at state colleges and universities with free or significantly reduced tuition (space permitting). You can sit in on classes for personal enrichment or even earn credit toward a degree.
History buffs will love the variety of tours and historic sites throughout Savannah. From cobblestone squares and museums to historic homes and monuments, there are endless ways to explore the city’s past. You can find many ideas for things to do in Savannah on local travel and tourism sites.
Beach Days and Nature Escapes
If the beach is your happy place, you’re in luck. Only about 18 miles from downtown Savannah is Tybee Island, a delightful barrier island with miles of clean beaches, wide shores, and gentle waves. It’s perfect for a day of relaxing, shell hunting, or strolling the pier.
Prefer trees and wildlife to sand and surf? There are several nearby nature destinations perfect for walking, birding, fishing, or simply enjoying the fresh air, including the Savannah National Wildlife Refuge and Wassaw National Wildlife Refuge. Or, if you’re more of a “city mouse,” don’t miss Savannah’s famous River Street, where you can watch ships on the Savannah River, enjoy local restaurants and pubs, and browse unique shops.
Retirement-Friendly Finances
The lifestyle is wonderful, but the financial picture is just as appealing. Georgia consistently ranks as one of the more tax-friendly states for retirees. Social Security benefits are not taxed at the state level, and a significant portion of other retirement income may be excluded once you reach a certain age (subject to state rules at the time you retire).
Many seniors in Georgia also enjoy property tax deductions or exemptions based on age, income, and home value. Resources such as Kiplinger and GoBankingRates frequently highlight Georgia as a place where retirement savings can stretch further than in many other states.
Of course, you’ll want to speak with a qualified tax professional about your specific situation, but Savannah and Coastal Georgia can be a smart choice from a cost-of-living perspective.
Downsizing Into the Right Community
Many Baby Boomers and retirees are also looking to downsize — choosing a home that’s easier to maintain but still offers room for visiting family and friends. One of the biggest advantages of building or buying a new home is being able to choose the right community: one with great amenities, easy access to Savannah’s attractions, and friendly neighbors.
While some older adults prefer age-restricted 55+ communities, many active retirees discover they enjoy a more age-diverse neighborhood. Living among a mix of families, singles, and fellow retirees can mean:
- Kids in the neighborhood for visiting grandchildren to play with
- More social variety for walks, clubs, and community groups
- Fewer restrictions on guests and everyday routines
In addition, it can sometimes be easier to sell a home in a non age-restricted community since you’re not limited to buyers above a certain age.
Single-Level Homes That Still Feel Spacious
Another common concern about traditional 55+ communities is home size. Many of those floor plans top out at two bedrooms with smaller kitchens and living spaces. At Ernest Homes, we design single-level homes that feel comfortable, open, and right-sized for today’s retirees — without feeling “small.”
Our Fripp, Hampton, Hamilton, and Liberty floor plans each offer three bedrooms and two full baths with thoughtfully designed kitchens, living areas, and outdoor spaces. You can easily:
- Convert a secondary bedroom into a craft room with a daybed
- Create a home office or library with a pull-out sofa for guests
- Enjoy full-size kitchens and living spaces without stairs
With the right plan, you’ll have all the space you need for everyday living plus comfortable room for visitors.
Ready to Retire to Savannah?
If you’re ready to retire and looking for an ideal location in the Savannah, GA area, we’d love to talk more about your goals. Our team can help you explore communities, single-level floor plans, and available homes that fit your lifestyle today and in the years ahead.
Call our Sales Team at 912-660-9673 or send us a message today. We can’t wait to welcome you home to Savannah!
