News Summary
Savannah, Georgia has been named one of America’s best places to retire, according to Forbes. The city stands out for its affordability, favorable climate, and quality healthcare options. With a median home price significantly lower than the national average, retirees can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle. Savannah’s rich cultural environment, walkable streets, and accessibility to natural attractions further enhance its appeal. Additionally, favorable tax policies for retirees make it a top choice for those entering their golden years.
Savannah, Georgia has been recognized as one of America’s top destinations for retirement in 2025, according to a recent report released by Forbes. The city ranks alongside other notable locations on a list that identifies the 25 “Best Places to Retire” for individuals looking for a new home during their retirement years. With its appealing living conditions, affordable housing, and favorable climate, Savannah stands out as an attractive option for retirees.
Forbes’ evaluation included data from over 950 locations, each with populations exceeding 10,000 residents. Various financial and quality-of-life metrics played a critical role in determining the rankings. Savannah’s median home price is approximately $322,000, which is about 20% lower than the national median, making it a compelling option for those looking to settle down during their retirement. The city’s low cost of living further enhances its appeal, particularly for individuals on fixed incomes.
Aside from competitive housing prices, Savannah benefits from a mild climate with comfortable winters, favorable air quality, and a high per capita ratio of primary care physicians. These factors contribute to a healthier lifestyle for retirees. The city is also known for its walkable and bike-friendly streets, encouraging active living among its residents.
Tax considerations are another attractive aspect of retiring in Savannah. Georgia operates under a flat income tax rate of 5.49% after applying a standard deduction of $18,000 for couples. In addition, the state provides exemptions for Social Security income and up to $65,000 in retirement income per individual, further improving the financial landscape for retirees. However, it is noteworthy that Savannah has a relatively high rating on the FEMA National Risk Index, indicating some potential vulnerabilities regarding natural disasters.
In addition to its recognition from Forbes, Savannah has also earned accolades from HGTV, which named it one of the 30 best places to retire in the United States. The network highlighted the city’s housing affordability, high-quality healthcare options, desirable weather, and overall satisfaction among residents as key factors in its evaluation. HGTV portrayed Savannah as the “epitome of Southern charm,” pointing to its historical character defined by Spanish moss, public squares, and a slower pace of life that many retirees find appealing.
Moreover, Savannah’s vibrant arts scene—strongly influenced by the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD)—as well as its local food culture, antique shops, bookstores, museums, and galleries, contribute to its rich community life. These elements create a diverse and engaging environment for retirees looking to indulge in art, culture, and history.
Another compelling reason for retirees to consider Savannah is its proximity to natural attractions. The city is located just 14 miles from Tybee Island, which offers sandy beaches and coastal recreational opportunities. This accessibility to outdoor activities provides a balanced lifestyle that appeals to many seniors looking to remain active during retirement.
While Savannah shines as a favorable retirement destination, Augusta, Georgia, was mentioned alongside it for its high renter satisfaction among individuals aged 45 and above. However, Savannah stands out as the sole city from Georgia on HGTV’s retirement list, further solidifying its reputation as an ideal location for those entering their golden years.
In summary, Savannah’s combination of affordable living, quality healthcare, favorable tax climate, and rich cultural environment makes it a significant player on the retirement landscape for 2025, showcasing the numerous advantages the city has to offer retirees nationwide.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Savannah Now: Forbes Best Places to Retire
- Wikipedia: Retirement in the United States
- Savannah Now: Best Place in Georgia for Retirement
- Google Search: Best places to retire
- WSB TV: Best City in US
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Retirement
- Fox 5 Atlanta: Savannah Best Places to Retire
- Google News: Retirement in Savannah
- 11Alive: Top City in South to Retire
