Historic District vs. Starland District: Which Savannah Neighborhood Is the Better Real Estate Investment?
A Complete Guide to Investing in Two of Savannah's Most Sought-After Neighborhoods
If you're considering buying an investment property in Savannah, one of the first questions you'll likely ask is:
Should I invest in the Historic District or the Starland District?
The answer depends on your investment goals.
Both neighborhoods have become some of Savannah's most desirable real estate markets, but they appeal to different buyers, investors, and lifestyles. While the Historic District is known for its world-renowned architecture, luxury homes, and enduring prestige, the Starland District has become synonymous with redevelopment, creative energy, and long-term growth potential.
Whether you're looking for a luxury residence, historic home, commercial investment, multifamily property, or redevelopment opportunity, understanding the strengths of each neighborhood can help you make a more informed investment decision.
Historic District at a Glance
The Historic District is Savannah's most recognizable neighborhood and one of the largest National Historic Landmark Districts in the United States.
Home to centuries-old architecture, cobblestone streets, iconic public squares, and some of the city's finest restaurants and boutique shopping, it attracts buyers from across the country seeking a truly unique lifestyle.
Best For
- Luxury home buyers
- Historic property enthusiasts
- High-end condominiums
- Mixed-use buildings
- Boutique commercial investments
- Executive residences
- Long-term appreciation
- Walkable urban living
Starland District at a Glance
Located just south of the Historic District, Starland has transformed into one of Savannah's fastest-growing neighborhoods.
Once an overlooked area, it has become a hub for local restaurants, breweries, coffee shops, art galleries, creative businesses, and thoughtfully restored historic buildings.
Its ongoing revitalization has attracted buyers looking for properties with future upside.
Best For
- Value-add investors
- Historic renovations
- Creative entrepreneurs
- Mixed-use properties
- Multifamily investments
- Boutique commercial spaces
- Long-term appreciation
- Adaptive reuse projects
Architecture
Historic District
The Historic District is home to some of Savannah's most celebrated architecture.
You'll find:
- Federal-style homes
- Greek Revival mansions
- Italianate townhomes
- Gothic Revival architecture
- Victorian residences
- Historic brick buildings
- Elegant courtyards
- Original carriage houses
Every block tells a story, and the neighborhood's timeless design is a major driver of long-term demand.
Winner:
Historic District
Starland District
Starland offers a different architectural experience.
Its charm comes from:
- Early 20th-century homes
- Restored cottages
- Brick commercial buildings
- Warehouse conversions
- Adaptive reuse projects
- Creative renovations
Rather than grand estates, Starland emphasizes authenticity and neighborhood character.
Winner:
Starland for buyers seeking a creative, eclectic atmosphere.
Investment Potential
Historic District
The Historic District is often viewed as a blue-chip real estate market.
Advantages include:
- Limited inventory
- International recognition
- Strong luxury demand
- Established property values
- Consistent buyer interest
- High-quality commercial locations
Investors are typically drawn to long-term appreciation and scarcity.
Starland District
Starland offers a different investment profile.
Many buyers are attracted by opportunities to:
- Renovate historic properties
- Reposition commercial buildings
- Improve multifamily assets
- Participate in neighborhood growth
- Acquire properties before full maturation
Investors willing to add value may find compelling opportunities.
Winner:
Depends on strategy.
Historic District generally offers greater stability, while Starland may appeal to investors seeking growth through redevelopment.
Walkability
Both neighborhoods are highly walkable.
Historic District
Walking distance to:
- River Street
- Broughton Street
- City Market
- Forsyth Park
- Museums
- Squares
- Luxury dining
- Boutique shopping
Starland
Walking distance to:
- Local coffee shops
- Breweries
- Art galleries
- Independent restaurants
- Neighborhood businesses
- Creative studios
Winner:
Tie.
The Historic District offers a broader tourist-oriented experience, while Starland provides a more neighborhood-focused atmosphere.
Luxury Living
Luxury buyers often gravitate toward the Historic District due to its grand residences, iconic architecture, and prestigious addresses.
Starland, by contrast, appeals to buyers looking for thoughtfully renovated homes with a more contemporary and creative character.
Winner:
Historic District
Commercial Investment
Historic District commercial properties often benefit from established tourism and premium locations.
Starland commercial properties may offer opportunities tied to neighborhood growth, local businesses, and adaptive reuse.
Both markets can be attractive depending on the investment strategy.
Value-Add Opportunities
This is where Starland stands out.
Investors frequently explore opportunities involving:
- Historic renovations
- Mixed-use redevelopment
- Commercial repositioning
- Interior modernization
- Adaptive reuse
- Multifamily improvements
The Historic District also presents renovation opportunities, but preservation considerations and pricing can make projects more complex.
Winner:
Starland
Appreciation Potential
Both neighborhoods have demonstrated long-term appeal, though for different reasons.
Historic District
- Scarcity
- International recognition
- Luxury demand
- Historic preservation
- Established prestige
Starland
- Continued redevelopment
- Neighborhood investment
- Growing business community
- Increasing buyer interest
- Expanding restaurant and arts scene
Winner:
Both neighborhoods offer compelling appreciation stories, though the drivers of demand differ.
Lifestyle Comparison
Historic District
Ideal for buyers who value:
- Historic architecture
- Luxury living
- Fine dining
- Walkability
- Prestigious addresses
- Timeless elegance
Starland
Ideal for buyers who enjoy:
- Creative culture
- Independent businesses
- Local restaurants
- Adaptive reuse
- Emerging neighborhoods
- Community atmosphere
Which Neighborhood Fits Your Investment Strategy?
Choose the Historic District if you want:
✓ Luxury real estate
✓ Historic prestige
✓ Long-term wealth preservation
✓ Prime walkability
✓ High-end condominiums
✓ Landmark architecture
✓ Established demand
Choose Starland if you want:
✓ Value-add opportunities
✓ Historic renovations
✓ Mixed-use investments
✓ Commercial redevelopment
✓ Creative business environment
✓ Long-term neighborhood growth
✓ Properties with repositioning potential
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Historic District a good place to invest?
The Historic District remains one of Savannah's most established real estate markets. Its architectural significance, limited inventory, and walkable lifestyle continue to attract buyers seeking luxury homes and long-term ownership.
Is Starland a good investment?
Starland has become one of Savannah's most closely watched neighborhoods due to ongoing redevelopment and its vibrant mix of local businesses, restaurants, and restored historic properties. Individual investment performance depends on the property's location, condition, and intended use.
Which neighborhood is better for appreciation?
Both neighborhoods have characteristics that can support appreciation over time. The Historic District benefits from scarcity and international recognition, while Starland's appeal is closely tied to continued neighborhood investment and revitalization.
Which neighborhood is better for commercial real estate?
The answer depends on the type of investment. Historic District properties often benefit from tourism and established foot traffic, while Starland may appeal to investors interested in adaptive reuse, creative commercial spaces, and long-term redevelopment opportunities.
Work with Chaz Holden & Golden Homes Real Estate Group
Choosing the right neighborhood is just as important as choosing the right property. Whether you're investing in a luxury townhouse overlooking one of Savannah's iconic squares, restoring a historic home in Starland, purchasing a mixed-use commercial building, or evaluating a value-add opportunity, understanding each neighborhood's character and investment profile is essential.
Chaz Holden and Golden Homes Real Estate Group, part of RE/MAX Island Realty, specialize in luxury and investment real estate throughout Savannah and the Lowcountry. By combining market knowledge with investment-focused analysis, the team helps buyers evaluate neighborhoods, identify long-term opportunities, and make informed real estate decisions.
If you're considering buying, selling, or investing in the Historic District, Starland District, or anywhere throughout Savannah, contact Chaz Holden and Golden Homes Real Estate Group to discuss your goals and discover opportunities tailored to your investment strategy.
