Savannah, GA Building Costs: House vs. Condo (Per Sq Ft, 2024)
Current market ranges (hard costs only, excluding land, soft costs, financing):
| Type | Low | High | Typical (Mid) | Notes |
|---|
| Single-Family House (custom/semi-custom) | $185 | $250 | $215 | Wood frame, standard finishes. High end: $300+ for luxury. |
| Condo / Townhome (multi-family, 3–5 story) | $170 | $220 | $195 | Shared structure reduces envelope cost. HOA fees extra. |
| High-Rise Condo (6+ stories, concrete/steel) | $240 | $350+ | $290 | Structural, fire/life safety, vertical transport add cost. |
Key Cost Drivers in Savannah
- Flood zone / elevation: FEMA AE/VE zones require raised foundations, flood vents, impact glazing — adds $15–$40/sf.
- Historic District: Design review, specialized trades, material matching — +20–40%.
- Labor market: Tight skilled trades; subs bid 10–15% above 2021 levels.
- Materials: Lumber normalized; concrete, steel, HVAC, electrical gear still elevated.
- Insurance: Builder's risk & coastal wind deductibles affect pro forma.
Soft Costs (Add 25–35% to Hard Costs)
- Architecture/engineering (8–12%)
- Permits, impact fees, utility tap fees (2–5%)
- Legal, financing, carry, marketing (5–10%)
- Contingency (5–10%)
Data Sources
- RSMeans / Gordian (Savannah city cost index: 92 vs. national 100)
- Local builders: Barrett & Co, Savannah Custom Homes, D.J. Powers, Brantley Construction.
- Appraisal Institute, Savannah Area Realtors market reports.
Rule of thumb: Budget $270–$320/sf all-in for a custom house; $250–$300/sf for mid-rise condo (incl. land allocation). Get three detailed bids.
Wanderlust World