Is Savannah, Georgia Safe? 2025 Safety Guide

Savannah, Georgia, has old buildings, beautiful scenery, and lively events. Whenever tourists visit Savannah or consider living there, many ask the question, Is Savannah safe? This guideline discusses the Savannah, Georgia, 2025 safety. It examines crime rates, safe areas, and tourist information, among others, to give you an idea of what to look forward to.

Is Savannah, Georgia Safe?

The whole of Savannah is generally safe, although the rate of crime is higher than the national average. In 2024, following a pandemic increase, violent crime decreased, but by contrast, property crime did not change. According to the recent reports, there were a total of 1430 violent crimes out of which 450 were property theft.

The tourist core is highly patrolled, making it highly unlikely to come to danger in the course of regular sightseeing. The greatest danger is petty theft and the cars left unlocked. You will probably be safe by walking in small groups of people at night, not displaying valuables, etc.

Is Savannah, Georgia a Safe Place to Live?

Safety changes block by block. Quiet streets in Ardsley Park, Gordonston, and Isle of Hope see little violence. Parts of the west side report more assaults and robberies. The city boasts lighting, watch groups, and youth centers, but progress is uneven. Families like mid-town and south-side suburbs for lower crime and good schools. Downtown lofts give quick police help, yet bring more late-night noise and theft.

How Safe Is Savannah, Georgia?

Savannah mixes bright spots with real challenges. Tourism money keeps the Historic District, River Street, and the arts zone well guarded. Yet poverty pockets fuel break-ins and gun crime. Below are four Savannah, Georgia, safe areas, plus a look at day versus night risks.

Neighborhood safety

Thomas Square, Starland, and Historic District-North are full of cafes and students. Police apply bike, horse, and foot patrols. West Savannah, Cuyler-Brownville, and some areas in Eastside continue to record more assaults. Reading new crime statistics and walking a street at different hours should always be a part of a lease signature.

Travel safety

That central part of the city is easily walkable. Have good shoes: rain-polished bricks can be slippery. Zip these and put the phones in front pockets. Uber vehicles come quickly, and cabs flow along the streets of Bay. Arrange your pickup in advance of an evening out so you will never be in an embarrassing position.

Transportation safety

Storms can hit fast. Slow down on Victory Drive or President Street when rain cuts your vision. Buses from Chatham Area Transit run well by day, then thin after 10 p.m. The free DOT shuttle loops downtown until midnight on weekends. Avoid empty stops late at night.

Food & drinking safety

Most eateries post strong health grades. Savannah lets adults carry open drinks in plastic cups in the Historic District. This rule brings party groups and pickpockets. Pace yourself, travel with friends, and use marked rides after midnight.

Daytime vs. nighttime safety

The days seem easy: the families walk through Forsyth Park, and the tours clip-clop around the oaks. The majority of violent crime occurs between 9 at night and 3 in the morning and usually takes place around late bars or in gas stations. Three times as many assaults are seen at night by the police, as compared to the day. During the dark, walk along well-lit streets and walk in groups.

Crime Rate in Savannah, Georgia — 2025 Overview

January 2025 city data has mixed news. The incidents of violent crime, which stood at 1,450 in 2023, decreased by 7 percent, or nearly 1,350, in 2024. That is 6.1 per 1000 residents of violent crimes, higher than 4.0 in the U.S. Property crime remained almost at 34.5 per 1,000 inhabitants. Police attribute lots of thefts to unlocked cars and hotel rooms.

• Violent crime (homicide, robbery, aggravated assault). In 2024, Savannah recorded 33 killings as compared to 39 in 2023. The robberies dropped to 275. Attacks where there had been injury reached more than 1,000. Increased patrols and gunshot sensors, mentors to young people, also reduced numbers.
• Property crime (burglary/larceny/motor-vehicle theft). Larceny was top of the list with more than 4,500, including 50 percent of car break-ins to steal laptops, wallets, or guns. The number of burglaries declined to 580. The number of motor-vehicle thefts increased to 710, wherein crews stole unlocked trucks and newer sedans.
• Tourist-targeted thefts. Visitors lost about $620,000 in cash and devices, mainly in the Historic District and riverfront. Keep wallets in front pockets and wear cross-body bags.
• Digital fraud and ID theft. Online ticket scams for concerts and ghost tours grew 12 percent. Pay only on official sites with credit cards for protection.

How to Stay Safe in Savannah, Georgia?

Small habits cut risk to near zero.

• Pick secure lodging. Book hotels or rentals with 24-hour staff, locked lots, and solid doors.
• Lock cars and hide gear. Thieves test door handles, and an empty seat often sends them away.
• Use bright, busy streets at night. Light and crowds deter crime. If a block is empty, switch to a main road or call a ride.
• Drink wisely and guard your cup. Keep sight of your drink and buy refills only from bartenders.
• Carry little. Take one card and small cash. Leave passports and spare keys in a room safe.
• Watch storm alerts. Hurricanes and squalls come fast on the coast. Follow official warnings.
• Download city safety apps. The Savannah PD app posts crime alerts and road closures.
• Report trouble fast. Dial 911 or flag an officer if you see danger.

Installing security cameras is a smart way to keep an eye on your property if you live in a bustling part of Savannah.

FAQs

Is Savannah, Georgia safe to walk around?

Yes, especially by day. Stay on marked paths, avoid alleys, and secure valuables. At night, walk with friends or use a rideshare.

Which is safer, Savannah or Atlanta?

Atlanta shows higher violent-crime rates overall. Savannah has fewer homicides per 100,000 people, yet both cities have safer and riskier parts.

What areas should I avoid in Savannah, GA?

Use caution in West Savannah, Clearview, and streets south of Wheaton Street after dark. Crime clusters near some gas stations late at night. Tourist blocks stay safer due to patrols.

Why is Savannah, Georgia so cheap?

Many homes need repairs, flood insurance raises costs in low areas, and wage growth trails bigger metros. These factors keep prices modest, though prime historic homes still sell high.

Conclusion

Savannah is a picturesque, historic, and low-cost destination; however, it also has above-average theft and a little gun crime. The level of violence has reached 6.1 per one thousand inhabitants, whereas the level of property crimes comprises 34.5 per one thousand inhabitants. The city will pose no problem to you in terms of secure accommodation, locked vehicles, and traveling by groups during the night.

So, is Savannah safe? Yes, so long as you are on your guard and take the advice of the locals. Have you been to or resided in Savannah recently? Let others plan smartly by telling your story in the comments below.