Discover Savannah, Georgia Key Facts and Figures
Savannah, Georgia, is much more than its iconic cobblestone streets and oak trees draped in Spanish moss. It’s a city dripping in history, culture, and community, with unique statistics telling the story of its growth and charm. From its wide range of population backgrounds to its economic strengths, Savannah offers an intriguing mix of old-world charm and modern sophistication.
Let’s take a closer look at what makes this beautiful city so special, one statistic at a time.
Population and Diversity of the Community
Savannah’s population is a combination of many sources and each welcoming as the city itself. This is a place where history meets progress, and the people reflect the spirit.
– Savannah’s Size: The city is home to around 147,000 residents, with the greater metropolitan area expanding to more than 400,000. While it’s one of Georgia’s larger cities, Savannah still maintains a close neighborly feel where neighbors know each other, and community connections run deep.
– Cultural Diversity: The city’s cultural mix includes about 55% African American residents, 38% White, and smaller but significant Hispanic, Latino, and Asian populations. This diversity shapes Savannah’s art, music, and culinary scenes, creating a community expressing its varied heritage in everyday life and annual festivals.
– Youthful Energy Meets Tradition: With a median age of 32, Savannah has a dynamic energy coming from its younger residents. At the same time, the city is deeply rooted in its traditions, offering a balance between fresh ideas and time honored values.
– Educational Opportunities: Savannah values learning and creativity. Institutions like Savannah State University and the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) not only educate students but also influence the city’s cultural and professional arena. About 30% of Savannah’s residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, contributing to the city’s intellectual and creative energy.
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Georgia Facts
KANSAS Named for the Kansas or Kanza tribe of the Sioux family living along a river in the area and gave it the tribal name. The name translates as “south wind people,” or “wind people.”
WICHITA Wichita comes from the Wichita Indians, who settled at various times in the vicinity, and means either “scattered lodges” or “painted faces,” depending on which historian you ask. In 1868, a Wichita Town Company was organized with Mead and six others as original incorporators.
SEDGWICK COUNTY Sedgwick County was officially established nearly 150 years later on February 26, 1867, and bears the name of Civil War hero Major General John Sedgwick of the Union Army who was killed during the battle of Spottsylvania Courthouse in Virginia.
AREA (land) 81,815 sq miles (water) 459 sq miles (TOTAL) 82,274 sq miles
CAPITAL Topeka
FAMOUS DATES Organized as territory: May 30, 1854 Entered Union (rank): Jan. 29, 1861 (34) Present constitution adopted: 1859
LOCATION 37.6872° N, 97.3301° W
MEAN ELEVATION (average) 2,019 feet
HIGHEST POINT Mt. Sunflower; 4039 feet, 28th
LOWEST POINT Verdigris River; 680 feet, 43rd
COUNTIES 105
COASTLINE None
GEOGRAPHIC CENTER in Barton
STATE FOSSIL Tylosaurus and Pteranodon (Kansas has two official state fossils: Tylosaurus and Pteranodon, which are both known from Cretaceous-aged deposits in the western part of the state.)
STATE GRASS Little bluestem Schizachyrium scoparium
STATE REPTILE Ornate Box Turtle. The Ornate Box Turtle became the official State Reptile of Kansas in 1986 due to the efforts of the 6th-grade class at Caldwell Elementary led by their teacher, Larry L. Miller (Simmons 1986).
STATE ROCK Limestone. Limestone became the official state rock of Kansas in 2018. Ranchers once used limestone to build fence posts in Kansas, where wood supplies were limited. Limestone fence posts in Mitchell County, Kansas (June 1966).
STATE GEMSTONE Jelinite. In 2018 Kansas adopted a state mineral – Galena, and a state gemstone – Jelinite.
STATE FLAG The Kansas flag, adopted in 1925, consists of a dark blue field with the state seal in the center. A sunflower on a bar of twisted gold lies above the seal, and below the seal is the word Kansas.
STATE COLORS
STATE SEAL The seal contains a landscape including a rising sun, representing the east; and a river and steamboat, representing commerce. In the foreground, a settler’s cabin and a man plowing a field represent agriculture. A wagon train heads west and buffalo are seen fleeing from two Indians. Around the top of the seal is a cluster of 34 stars.
STATE SLOGAN First Of The Rectangle States
STATE MOTTO Ad astra per aspera (To the stars through difficulties)
STATE SONG “Home on the Range” (1947)
STATE TREE Cottonwood (1937)
STATE BIRD Western Meadowlark (1937)
STATE ANIMAL American Buffalo (or bison)
STATE FISH Channel Catfish
STATE METAL Galena
STATE NICKNAMES The Sunflower State, The Wheat State, Midway, U.S.A.
STATE FLOWER Sunflower (1903)
BORDERING STATES Colorado Missouri Nebraska Oklahoma
Economic Strengths Meets Innovation
Savannah’s economy is a blend of historic industries and modern developments. This combination creates a stable foundation for growth and opportunity.
– The Port of Savannah: As one of the busiest ports in the United States, the Port of Savannah is an economic powerhouse. It handles millions of containers each year, supporting international trade and providing thousands of jobs in logistics, warehousing, and transportation.
– Tourism and Hospitality: More than 14 million visitors come to Savannah annually. The tourism generates more than $3 billion for the local economy. Hotels, restaurants, and attractions benefit from this steady influx of visitors who come to experience the city’s charm, whether through historic walking tours or relaxing along the riverfront.
– Military Influence: Hunter Army Airfield brings a strong military presence to Savannah, contributing to the economy while building a supportive community for service members and their families. The base’s needs also create opportunities for local businesses, from housing to dining.
– Creative Industries: Thanks to SCAD, Savannah is the heart for the arts and a growing force in the film industry. Movies like Forrest Gump and Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil were filmed here, adding millions to the local economy. Creativity flows through the city, enriching its economic and cultural landscape.
Geography and Climate Around Savannah
Savannah’s coastal location and pleasant climate make it a wonderful place to live, work, and visit. No matter how many times we travel to coastline there is always something new to experience.
– Geographic Highlights: Covering about 108 square miles, Savannah is known for its iconic historic squares, scenic parks, and waterfront charm. Its location near the Atlantic coast provides easy access to beaches and marshlands, blending urban living with natural beauty.
– Subtropical Climate: Savannah enjoys a humid subtropical climate with mild winters and warm, sunny summers. July and August can see temperatures climb into the 90s, while winters are gentle, with January typically bringing cooler but still comfortable weather. Outdoor activities are popular year-round, from riverside walks to community events in the squares.
Transportation Provide Easy Ways to Explore
Getting around Savannah is as much a part of the experience as the destination itself.
– Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport: This regional airport connects Savannah to major cities across the U.S., making it convenient for both residents and visitors. Direct flights mean less travel time and more time to enjoy the city.
– Public Transit: Chatham Area Transit provides affordable bus service throughout the city. While many locals prefer driving, the bus system offers a reliable alternative for commuting and sightseeing.
– Walkable and Bike-Friendly: Savannah’s downtown and Historic District are famously walkable. The compact layout, lush squares, and shaded streets make walking a joy. The city is also expanding its biking infrastructure, with trails and bike-sharing programs gaining popularity.
Fascinating Facts About Savannah
Savannah’s charm goes beyond what meets the eye. Here are a few lesser-known facts that make the city even more intriguing:
1. Savannah’s Iconic Squares: The city originally had 24 squares, of which 22 remain today. These public spaces are not only beautiful but also integral to Savannah’s unique city plan.
2. Haunted Legacy: Known as one of the most haunted cities in America, Savannah draws ghost hunters and curious visitors alike. Its ghost tours and haunted inns add a spooky yet fascinating layer to the city’s history.
3. A City of Firsts: Founded in 1733, Savannah is one of America’s first planned cities. Its grid layout, including the famous squares, was revolutionary at the time and remains a defining feature today.
4. Hollywood’s Favorite Backdrop: Savannah’s scenic streets and historic architecture have made it a favorite filming location. Movies like The General’s Daughter and Glory were also shot here, showcasing the city’s beauty on the big screen.
Savannah's Bright Future
Savannah is a city honoring its past while looking toward the future. Investments in tourism, infrastructure, and the arts are shaping its next chapter. New developments are creating jobs and expanding the economy, while preservation efforts guarantees the city’s history remains intact for generations to come.
Whether you’re drawn to Savannah’s historic charm, its unique culture, or its opportunities for growth, it’s clear this city has a special place in the heart of the South. From its dynamic population to its expanding industries, Savannah continues to grow in ways honoring its heritage while greeting new possibilities.
