Savannah's Historic District: Homes and Area Guide

Where is the Historic District?

The Historic District sits on a bluff above the Savannah River, running from River Street and the riverfront south to Forsyth Park, which caps the original city plan. Twenty-two of the original 24 squares remain today, each about an acre, shaded by live oaks and surrounded by historic homes, churches and other buildings. The district was named a National Historic Landmark District in 1966.

Just south of the original plan, the Victorian District continues the historic streetscape with homes from the late 1800s and early 1900s.

What it's like to live in the Historic District

Downtown living means walking almost everywhere: to the squares, Forsyth Park, Broughton Street's shops, River Street, restaurants, churches and museums. It's also a busy, lively part of the city, with visitors, students and events throughout the year, so it suits people who like being in the middle of things.

Homes in the Historic District

You'll find historic townhomes and row houses, freestanding single-family homes, carriage houses behind larger homes, condominiums and lofts in converted buildings, and some newer homes built to fit in with their historic neighbors. Many downtown homes have small private gardens or courtyards, and parking is often on the street or off the lane behind the home.

Renovations and exterior changes

To protect the district's character, the City of Savannah's Historic District Board of Review, created in 1973, oversees exterior work. Exterior changes visible from the street or lane generally need a Certificate of Appropriateness before work begins, and some smaller items can be approved by staff. If you're planning changes, ask about the approval process before you buy.

Short-term rentals

If you're thinking about renting a home out short-term, Savannah requires a short-term vacation rental certificate, and the city limits new non-owner-occupied rentals in some areas. Rules change, so check the city's current short-term vacation rental regulations before you buy with rental plans in mind.

A note on flood zones and insurance

Much of downtown sits on high ground, but flood zones can still vary from one block to the next. Look up any property on the FEMA Flood Map Service Center and get insurance quotes early.

Schools near the Historic District

Downtown Savannah is served by the Savannah-Chatham County Public School System. School zones are set by address and can change, so always check a specific home with the district's school locator before you buy.

Buying or selling in the Historic District with Seaport

Seaport Real Estate is a locally owned and operated brokerage in Savannah, led by Broker/Owner Ben Bluemle. Behind every agent is an in-house team: marketing and design, a contract coordinator who manages each deal from contract to close, and office support.

• Buying? Start with our home buyer resources or search homes for sale.
• Selling? See how we market homes on our Sellers page, or request a home valuation to find out what your the Historic District home could be worth.
• Want to meet an agent first? Browse Meet the Team.

Savannah Historic District FAQ

What is Savannah's Historic District?

It's Savannah's original downtown, laid out by General James Oglethorpe in 1733 around a grid of public squares. It was named a National Historic Landmark District in 1966.

How many squares are in Savannah's Historic District?

Twenty-two of Savannah's original 24 squares remain today, each about an acre in size.

Do I need approval to renovate a home in the Historic District?

For most exterior work, yes. Exterior changes visible from the street or lane generally need a Certificate of Appropriateness through the City of Savannah's historic review process before work begins. Interior work typically doesn't go through that review, but it may still need regular permits.

Can I use a Historic District home as a short-term rental?

Possibly. Savannah requires a short-term vacation rental certificate, and the city limits new non-owner-occupied rentals in some areas. Check the city's current rules before you buy.

Who can help me buy or sell a home in Savannah's Historic District?

Seaport Real Estate's local agents. Call 912-202-2042, email [email protected], or visit our office at 7301 Waters Avenue, Savannah, GA 31406, Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 5 PM.

Explore more Savannah-area guides

Savannah, Midtown, The Islands, Wilmington Island, Dutch Island, Tybee Island, Pooler and Richmond Hill. Have a general question? Our Savannah Real Estate FAQ covers the basics.