Why Richmond Hill, GA Is a Smart Choice for Your Next Home

Buying a home is a major life decision, and the community you choose can shape your lifestyle for years to come. Richmond Hill, Georgia, just south of Savannah, offers something rare—a city that balances rich history, top-performing schools, a strong sense of community, and a true connection to the water. Whether you’re buying your first home, upgrading for more space, or looking for the perfect place to retire, Richmond Hill continues to stand out as one of the most desirable areas in coastal Georgia.

Understanding the Local Real Estate Market

Richmond Hill’s housing market remains steady and active. As of spring 2025, the median home price is hovering around $396,000, with some sources placing it closer to $436,000. Average price per square foot is approximately $197. Homes spend an average of 50 days on the market, and inventory has grown by more than 14 percent year over year, giving buyers more choices.

This is not a market of wild fluctuations. Instead, Richmond Hill has seen consistent, healthy appreciation driven by strong demand, new construction, and lifestyle appeal. The addition of the Del Webb 55+ Active Adult Community has further expanded the market, attracting retirees looking for low-maintenance living without giving up access to restaurants, recreation, and water views.

Population and Demographics

With nearly 19,600 residents projected by the end of 2025, Richmond Hill’s growth is no accident. This city has nearly doubled in population since 2010. The median age is 30.8, and household income averages nearly $90,000. Most residents own their homes and work either locally or within a 30-minute commute.

What draws people here is the blend of affordability, safety, and convenience with access to the water and an established small-town atmosphere.

Schools and Education

Richmond Hill is served by Bryan County Schools, one of the highest-rated public school districts in the region. Richmond Hill High School has earned an A rating and a 94 percent graduation rate. Local elementary schools, such as Frances Meeks and Carver Elementary, consistently receive GreatSchools ratings of 8 and 9 out of 10.

The school system offers more than just strong academics. The marching band at Richmond Hill High School is a standout program, often earning statewide recognition. The district also has competitive sports teams and thriving youth leagues, with a strong community emphasis on football, baseball, track, and soccer. Whether it’s a Friday night game or a Saturday tournament, the sense of pride is unmistakable.

A True Waterfront Lifestyle

One of Richmond Hill’s most defining features is its access to the water. Many neighborhoods offer marsh or deepwater views, and boating, crabbing, and fishing are part of daily life for many residents.

• Fort McAllister Marina is a popular hub for boaters, with quick access to the Ogeechee River and the Intracoastal Waterway.

• Waterfront dining options offer everything from oysters at Fish Tales to casual meals with dock views.

• Residents regularly spend weekends on the water, enjoying barrier island sandbars, fishing trips, and sunset cruises.

As Richmond Hill locals who live on the water, Trisha and Allen can speak from experience. The laid-back, outdoor lifestyle is one of the most rewarding aspects of living here. It’s peaceful, picturesque, and just minutes from the essentials.

Community Events and Quality of Life

Richmond Hill offers a tight-knit and welcoming community feel. Locals show up for each other—whether it’s cheering on a youth league team, attending school performances, or coming together for annual traditions.

Popular events include:

• The Great Ogeechee Seafood Festival, drawing more than 35,000 visitors each fall

• Weekly Farmers Market, featuring fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade items

• Monthly Car Shows at J.F. Gregory Park

• The Ford Field & River Club Gala, a signature black-tie event supporting local causes

• Fourth of July Festival, Easter Egg Hunts, National Night Out, and more

J.F. Gregory Park, a 335-acre community park in the heart of the city, is the centerpiece for many of these activities. The park offers walking trails, playgrounds, a large pavilion, and hosts festivals throughout the year. Richmond Hill also holds a special place in music history—it was once home to Southern rock icon Gregg Allman.

Locally owned restaurants and small businesses are part of what makes this town feel personal. Whether it’s brunch at The Local on 17, craft beers at Georgia Game Changers, or date night at Marker 107, the food scene is as inviting as the people.

Business, Employment, and Commuting

Many Richmond Hill residents work in healthcare, education, logistics, or at major regional employers such as Gulfstream Aerospace, Fort Stewart, or the Port of Savannah. Local businesses and manufacturers in Richmond Hill itself also contribute to the economy.

Commute times average between 25 and 35 minutes. With close proximity to I-95 and Highway 17, getting to Savannah, Pooler, or Bryan County’s growing industrial corridor is convenient.

History and Future Growth

Richmond Hill is more than a scenic coastal community—it’s a town deeply rooted in American history, with a legacy shaped by innovation, industry, and Southern resilience.

Originally known as Ways Station, the town gained prominence in the 19th century as a stop along the Savannah–Florida–Alabama railway line. But Richmond Hill’s modern identity began to take shape in the 1930s, when industrialist and automotive pioneer Henry Ford purchased thousands of acres in the area. Ford built homes, schools, sawmills, and even a hospital for his workers, helping to transform this rural pocket of Bryan County into a thriving community with economic opportunity and infrastructure well ahead of its time.

In 1941, after Ford’s death, the town was renamed Richmond Hill—a nod to the area’s colonial roots and the Richmond family of England. Since then, the city has evolved from a company town into one of Coastal Georgia’s most desirable places to live.

Today, Richmond Hill blends its rich past with a vibrant present. From the iconic Ford Plantation and the Richmond Hill History Museum to the city’s top-rated schools, waterfront parks, and growing neighborhoods, the community continues to attract families, retirees, and professionals seeking both charm and convenience. With its proximity to Savannah and easy access to I-95, Richmond Hill remains a place where history lives—quietly influencing the future.

Why People Choose Richmond Hill

• Waterfront living with access to boating, fishing, and nature

• Top-rated public schools and competitive extracurriculars

• Rich local history and a vibrant sense of community

• Active new construction market with opportunities for first-time buyers, families, and retirees

• Convenient commute to major job centers

• Family-friendly events, local businesses, and peaceful neighborhoods

Ready to Buy or Sell in Richmond Hill?

Whether you’re looking to settle down, raise a family, or enjoy a quieter pace of life, Richmond Hill has the community, character, and convenience you’re seeking. With strong schools, a rich lifestyle, and steady demand, it’s a smart place to invest and an even better place to live.

Trisha and Allen not only work in real estate, they call Richmond Hill home. They live on the water, participate in local events, and understand what makes this city truly special. Let The Trisha Cook Team guide you through your real estate journey with the expertise and insight only locals can provide.

Reach out today to start exploring homes in Richmond Hill.