Savannah, Georgia Short-Term Rental Market Overview
Visitor Profile
Top Attractions
Savannah, Georgia, captivates visitors with its charming historic district, adorned with cobblestone streets, picturesque squares, and stunning Victorian architecture. A highlight is the iconic Forsyth Park, known for its beautiful fountain and lush landscapes, offering a perfect setting for leisurely strolls and immersive history. The city’s acclaimed guided tours, including trolley and ghost tours, provide deeper insights into Savannah’s rich past and vibrant culture. Enchanting cemeteries, historic monuments, and beautifully preserved buildings make every corner of Savannah a visual delight, drawing history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike.
Beyond its historic allure, Savannah is celebrated for its lively food scene, vibrant arts, and friendly Southern hospitality. The city’s bustling River Street offers a lively atmosphere with charming shops, cafes, and bars nestled along the waterfront, ideal for relaxing after a day of exploration. Nature lovers can escape to nearby parks and reserves that highlight the city’s peaceful, natural beauty. All these elements combine to make Savannah a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a blend of history, culture, and Southern charm.
Regulations
Savannah, Georgia, has a structured regulatory environment for short-term rentals designed to balance the interests of property owners, guests, and the community. Hosts operating in Savannah can expect specific requirements related to licensing, zoning, primary residence status, and compliance with health and safety standards. These measures aim to ensure that short-term rentals contribute positively to the local economy while minimizing disruption to residential neighborhoods.
### Key Regulatory Considerations:
– Licensing and Permits: Short-term rental operators must obtain a business license and register their properties with the city. This process typically involves an application to the appropriate city department, possible fees, and periodic renewals to maintain compliance.
– Primary Residence Requirements: Regulations may require that the short-term rental property be the host’s primary residence, or impose limits on the number of days a property can be rented out on a short-term basis. These rules help ensure that short-term rentals do not excessively reduce the stock of long-term housing available to residents.
– Zoning and Location: Short-term rentals are subject to zoning ordinances that may restrict where they can operate within Savannah. Certain neighborhoods or districts might have prohibitions or additional requirements to protect residential character.
– Occupancy, Health & Safety: There are typically clear guidelines on maximum occupancy limits to prevent overcrowding. Health and safety standards must be strictly followed, including having smoke detectors, carbon monoxide alarms, and fire extinguishers installed and maintained.
– Tax Obligations: Hosts are responsible for collecting and remitting transient occupancy taxes, as well as any applicable sales taxes, to local authorities as part of their operational obligations.
– Operational Standards & Enforcement: Advertising must accurately reflect the rental property and comply with city guidelines. Noise, guest management, and other conduct rules apply to maintain neighborhood peace. Non-compliance can lead to fines, license suspension, or other penalties.
For the most current and legally binding information, property owners should consult the City of Savannah’s Official Short-Term Rental Regulations Page to ensure full compliance and take advantage of official guidance resources.
Savannah, Georgia Market Performance Trends
Savannah, Georgia Rental Market Insights
10-Year Market Growth
Booking Activity
- 1-3 Months:60.5% Booked
- 4-6 Months:64.5% Booked
- 7-9 Months:65.2% Booked
- 10-12 Months:16.3% Booked
Cancellation Policies
- Flexible:25.5%
- Moderate:39.5%
- Strict:31.7%
- Super Strict:31.7%
- N/A:1.2%
Minimum Stay
- 1 Day:752
- 2 Days:591
- 3 Days:212
- 4-6 Days:61
- 7-29 Days:80
- 30+ Days:288
