Understanding the Savannah, GA, Property Tax

Before you buy a home in Savannah, you need to make sure you have all of the information. What are the schools and neighborhoods like? What’s the cost of living in the area? Understanding the Savannah, GA’s property tax is an important consideration, too. Dream Finders Homes has insight into what you should know as a homeowner in this desirable Southern city.

What Are the Property Taxes in Savannah, GA?

Savannah, GA, is located in Chatham County. Calculating property taxes here may differ from neighboring counties, like Bryan County, so be sure of the governing county for the location where you’re looking to buy a new home.

As in most municipalities, property taxes in Savannah, GA, contribute to funding a variety of municipal services and programs:

• Police and Fire Departments
• Parks Management and Urban Forestry
• Community Centers and Recreation Services
• Streets and Sidewalks Maintenance and Repair
• Community Planning and Zoning
• Neighborhood and Housing Programs
• Economic and Workforce Development

How are Savannah Property Taxes Calculated?

Savannah, Georgia, property tax is based on 40% of your home’s fair market value, which is determined by the Chatham County Board of Assessors.

Let’s say the home you want to buy is valued at $400,000. You need to calculate 40% of that value:

$400,000 X 40% = $160,000

Your property will be taxed at $160,000. 

Your property tax is then calculated at $44.313 per $1,000 of the valuation of your home. For the example above, 160 X $44.313 = $7,090.08.

Can you lower your Savannah, Georgia, property tax? Absolutely!

Are There Property Tax Exemptions in Savannah, GA?

Property tax exemptions reduce your taxes based on fulfilling certain conditions. The most common one is the homestead exemption, allowed for people who occupy their home as a primary residence. You can deduct $2,000 from your total property tax amount. In the above example, the $2,000 homestead exemption lowers your property taxes in Savannah, GA, to $5,090.08.

To qualify, you must be living in the home as of January 1 of the tax year for which you intend to claim the exemption. You must apply for the homestead exemption before April 1 of the tax year, showing proof of residence (valid Georgia driver’s license, vehicle registration, and/or a voter registration card or utility bill).

You might be able to claim other Savannah, GA, property tax exemptions if you meet certain criteria:

• Senior School Tax Exemption
• School Tax Disability
• Special Chatham County
• Disabled Veterans or Unremarried Surviving Spouse of 100% Disabled Vet
• Unremarried Surviving Spouse of US Service Member Killed in Action
• Unremarried Surviving Spouse of Firefighter/Peace Officer
• City of Savannah
• Floating Homestead
• Tax Deferral for the Elderly

Each of these tax exemptions is valued individually and are in addition to the homestead exemption.

How Much Are Property Taxes in Bryan County?

Maybe you’re looking at homes near Savannah. Bryan County, which is known for its exceptional schools, borders Chatham County to the west. Your property tax amount depends on where you live within Bryan County—the unincorporated county area, Pembroke, City, or Richmond Hill, for example. As long as you know which tax district applies to your home, you can use the tax estimator to determine the property tax amount, not including exemptions.

Browse our Communities of New Homes

Dream Finders Homes builds communities of homes in Savannah, Pooler, and Richmond Hill.  Each neighborhood is designed to reflect the natural beauty, heritage, and style that is unique to Savannah. 

Hidden Pointe

Dream Finders’ townhomes at Hidden Pointe are located near the Savannah Historic District. You can enjoy the freedom of your lock-and-leave lifestyle to get out and take in the nearby attractions.

Magnolia Hill

Magnolia Hill is a family-friendly community in Richmond Hill. It’s close to Fort Stewart Army Base, Hunter Army Airfield, and Gulfstream—making this Dream Finders community a great location for military families!

Meadow Lakes

Meadow Lakes is coming soon to Pooler, GA. The single-family homes will be nestled in a tranquil area, yet just a short drive from Savannah.

Westbrook Golf Villas at Savannah Quarters

If golf is your passion, Westbrook Golf Villas at Savannah Quarters is the perfect choice for your new home. The residents in these single-family homes enjoy resort-style living and close proximity to downtown Savannah.

Contact Dream Finders Today!

Follow your dreams to one of the most vibrant cities in the South. Savannah, Georgia, presents a desirable blend of culture, history, activity, and unmatched Southern hospitality. Discover the uniqueness of an urban oasis that feels like a small town.