For years, buyers have asked me, “Is there a 55+ community near Savannah?” And for years, my answer... was no. Sadly, the closest options mean a drive across the South Carolina state line to Hardeeville, Bluffton, or Hilton Head. But not anymore! Del Webb Savannah at Heartwood has just arrived in the Savannah area and I couldn't be more thrilled.
Del Webb Savannah at Heartwood is an active adult community in Richmond Hill, and I toured the model homes, the clubhouse, and the neighborhood so you can see if it’s a fit before you ever make the trip.
Del Webb Savannah at a Glance
- What it is: A gated, 55+ active adult community by Del Webb
- Where: Belfast Keller Road in Richmond Hill (Bryan County), about half a mile from I-95
- Starting prices: mid $300,000s
- Home sizes: About 1,350 to 2,700 square feet
- HOA dues: About $250 a month now, rising to about $304 a month once the full amenity center opens
- Build time: About 6 to 7 months for a new home
Where Is Del Webb Savannah Located?
Del Webb Savannah sits off Belfast Keller Road in Richmond Hill, roughly half a mile from I-95. You can hop on the interstate in minutes, but the neighborhood is tucked far enough back that highway noise shouldn’t be part of your morning coffee.
Even better is what’s going in next door. Restaurants and shopping are planned directly across the street, a grocery store is coming right beside the community (Publix or Harris Teeter, still TBD), and a St. Joseph’s/Candler medical complex is planned next to that. Doctors, groceries, and dinner out, all within a few minutes of home? That’s a big deal when you’re picking where to spend the next chapter.
What Amenities Does Del Webb Savannah Have?
The full amenity center is still being built, but a smaller clubhouse is already open. It has:
- An outdoor pool
- A fire pit for chilly evenings
- A game room for cards and board games
- A living room with a big flat-screen TV and a kitchen next to it (football Saturdays, anyone?)
- A kitchen for catering parties and events
Once the full amenity center opens, residents will also have:
- A fitness center and aerobics studio
- Indoor pool and an outdoor resort style pool
- Pickleball courts
- Tennis courts
- Meeting space and clubhouse Wi-Fi
- Walking trails
- A pond with a deck for enjoying the sunsets
- An outdoor kitchen for parties
The community is also gated with a staffed gatehouse, so door-to-door salespeople can’t just wander in.
And here’s the part that surprised me most: Del Webb Savannah has a full-time activities director whose only job is planning things for residents to do.
For example, a typical month includes taco Tuesday, beginner pickleball lessons, afternoon tea, bingo, chair yoga, tai chi, Yahtzee, a Scrabble challenge, morning coffee, and pool parties with burgers and hot dogs. If you’re worried about moving somewhere new and not knowing a soul, this takes care of that fast.
How Far Is Del Webb Savannah From…
- St. Joseph’s/Candler Urgent Care: less than 1 mile
- Richmond Hill Golf Club: 5 miles
- Publix and Kroger: 6 miles
- Downtown Richmond Hill: 8 miles
- Waterways Marina and Carefree Boat Club: 11 miles
- St. Joseph’s/Candler Hospital: 20 miles
- Tanger Outlets Savannah: 22 miles
- Downtown Savannah: 23 miles
- Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport: 24 miles
- Tybee Island beach: 43 miles
How Much Are the HOA Fees at Del Webb Savannah?
HOA dues are currently about $250 a month. Once the full amenity center opens, they’re expected to go up to about $304 a month. Here’s what that covers:
- Lawn mowing, edging, and blowing
- Flower bed maintenance and shrub trimming
- Pine straw twice a year
- Access to every amenity listed above - pools, fitness center, activities, clubs, and social events
- Gated security at the entrance to the neighborhood
In other words, your weekends belong to you, not your lawn mower.
What Do the Homes at Del Webb Savannah Look Like?
First, there are lots of floor plans, ranging from about 1,350 to 2,700 square feet, so you start by deciding how much space you actually need. If you pick your lot and then your floor plan, you get to choose all the finishes: flooring, cabinets, countertops, and more. Expect about 6 to 7 months from start to move-in.
A few things I loved in the model homes:
- Walls of glass. In one model, the entire back wall slides open onto a screened porch, so you get the indoor-outdoor feel without the bugs.
- Roll-in showers. Many models had showers with no lip or threshold, which is smart planning for the long run.
- Kitchens built for company. Most had big islands with plenty of room when family and friends come to visit.
- Closets you could practically live in. One primary closet looked to be about 12 by 12 feet. No exaggeration!
One tip: model homes are decorated to impress, and some show off serious upgrades (one backyard had a pool, a hot tub, and an outdoor pizza oven! Doesn't everyone have a pizza oven in their backyard?) Always ask what’s standard and what costs extra. When you work with a REALTOR® we'll make sure we ask the right questions because all those upgrades add up in a hurry and can easily derail your budget.
Del Webb Savannah vs. 55+ Communities in South Carolina
Before Del Webb Savannah, buyers who wanted a 55+ community near Savannah usually ended up looking across the river in South Carolina. The two biggest names are Sun City Hilton Head and Latitude Margaritaville Hilton Head. Both are wonderful communities, so here’s an honest look at how they compare.
Sun City Hilton Head
Sun City Hilton Head, in Bluffton, is the established giant of the Lowcountry. Fun fact: it’s also a Del Webb community. It has been around for decades, so it offers thousands of homes, multiple clubhouses, golf, and more clubs and activities than you could join in a lifetime. You’ll find a mix of resale homes and new construction in its newer sections, and a big new amenity complex is in the works.
Best for: Buyers who want a large, fully built-out community with golf and a long-established social scene.
Latitude Margaritaville Hilton Head
Latitude Margaritaville, in Hardeeville, is inspired by Jimmy Buffett’s laid-back island lifestyle. It has an on-site restaurant and bars, pools, a fitness center, pickleball, and a manned gatehouse, with a “fins up” vibe throughout. HOA dues for single-family homes are projected at about $329 a month in 2026.
Best for: Buyers who want a fun, resort-style atmosphere and a lively social calendar.
Del Webb Savannah at Heartwood
Del Webb Savannah is the new kid on the block, and that’s both its biggest perk and its biggest tradeoff. Everything is brand new, you get in early, and you get to help shape the community from day one. On the flip side, the full amenity center is still being built, so it won’t feel “finished” for a little while.
Best for: Buyers who want new construction, Georgia living, and quick access to Savannah, Richmond Hill, and I-95.
So, Georgia or South Carolina?
It really comes down to lifestyle, location, and taxes. Del Webb Savannah puts you about 23 miles from downtown Savannah and 24 miles from the airport. The South Carolina communities put you closer to Bluffton and Hilton Head Island. Taxes are different in each state, too, and I’ll break those down next.
If you decide South Carolina is the right fit, that’s great! I work closely with agents on the other side of the state line who know those communities inside and out. My goal is to get you into the right home, even if it’s on the other side of the river.
Is Georgia Tax-Friendly for Retirees?
For a lot of my buyers, especially those moving from up north, taxes are a big part of the decision. The good news? Georgia is one of the more tax-friendly states for retirees. Here’s what you should know:
- Social Security isn’t taxed. Georgia doesn’t tax Social Security benefits at all.
- A generous retirement income exclusion. If you’re 65 or older, Georgia lets you exclude up to $65,000 per person in retirement income, like pensions and retirement account withdrawals, from state income tax. For ages 62 to 64, the exclusion is up to $35,000 per person. For a married couple who are both 65+, that’s up to $130,000 a year.
- A flat income tax. Georgia has a flat income tax of 5.19% (as of 2025), and the state has been lowering it each year.
- Senior property tax breaks. Georgia offers a homestead exemption on your primary home, plus additional exemptions for seniors that depend on age and income. Many counties add their own senior exemptions, so it’s worth checking with the Bryan County Tax Assessor once you buy.
How Does That Compare to South Carolina?
South Carolina also doesn’t tax Social Security, and it offers a retirement income deduction and a $50,000 homestead exemption on property value for homeowners 65 and older. Its top income tax rate is 6%, a bit higher than Georgia’s. Which state comes out ahead really depends on your income, your home’s value, and where your money comes from.
I’m a REALTOR®, not a tax professional. I cannot give you financial advice or legal advice (pretty sure you wouldn't want me to anyway!) so talk with your CPA or financial advisor about your own situation before you make a move.
Rather watch a video with more details? Just click below.
The Bigger Plan for Heartwood
What I love most is the long-term vision. Heartwood is a master-planned community, and the plan includes independent living, assisted living, and memory care. Those aren’t built yet, but they’re on the agenda. That means you could stay in the same community as your needs change, instead of starting over somewhere new.
They plan to have a grocery store right next to the community, which will be accessible via golf cart on a path between the two areas. You can run to the store for milk without driving your car!
Across the street in the other parts of Heartwood that are not limited to those of us 55 and better, they will have shops, restaurants, a barbershop, nail salon, and coffee shops.
The Row: New Shops and Restaurants Next to Del Webb Savannah
Remember those restaurants and shops I mentioned across the street? They’re almost here. I was at the grand opening celebration for The Row, the new shopping center on Belfast Keller Road, and the energy was contagious. The Richmond Hill Mayor and city planners were there and very excited about the growth in Richmond Hill.
Here’s a peek at what’s opening just steps from Del Webb Savannah.
Frequently Asked Questions About Del Webb Savannah
Is Del Webb Savannah a 55+ community?
Yes. Del Webb Savannah at Heartwood is an active adult community designed for buyers 55 and older.
Does everyone who lives in the home have to be 55 or older?
Not always. Age rules in 55+ communities usually require at least one resident in the home to be 55 or older, with specific rules for younger spouses or partners. The exact rules are spelled out in the HOA documents, so ask for a copy before you buy.
Can my grandkids come visit?
Absolutely. Grandkids and family are welcome to visit. Longer stays may have limits under the community rules, so check the HOA guidelines if you’re planning extended visits.
There are very limited hours for kids to use the pools BUT they can get a day pass to the non age restricted Heartwood neighborhood across the street, which is much more kid-friendly. That way they can splash to their hearts' content since that pool was designed for kids.
Where is Del Webb Savannah located?
On Belfast Keller Road in Richmond Hill, Georgia, in Bryan County, about half a mile from I-95. It's the last exit in Richmond Hill heading south toward Florida.
How far is Del Webb Savannah from downtown Savannah?
About 23 miles. It’s also about 24 miles from the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport and about 43 miles from Tybee Island.
How much do homes cost at Del Webb Savannah?
Prices start in the mid $300,000s and go up depending on the floor plan, lot, and finishes.
What are the HOA fees at Del Webb Savannah?
About $250 a month now, expected to rise to about $304 a month once the full amenity center opens. I'm told that will be March 2027 if all goes according to schedule.
What do the HOA fees include?
Lawn mowing, edging, and blowing; flower bed maintenance and shrub trimming; pine straw twice a year; gated security; and access to all the amenities, activities, and social events.
Is Del Webb Savannah gated?
Yes. It’s a gated community with a staffed gatehouse at the entrance.
What amenities does Del Webb Savannah have?
A smaller clubhouse is open now with a pool, fire pit, game room, and gathering space. The full amenity center will add a fitness center, aerobics studio, indoor and outdoor pools, pickleball and tennis courts, a ballroom and meeting space, walking paths, and more.
When will the full amenity center open?
It’s under construction now. Ask the sales center for the latest timeline, since construction dates can shift. But March 2027 is the target date.
Is there a golf course at Del Webb Savannah?
No, golf isn’t part of the community’s amenities, but Richmond Hill Golf Club is about 5 miles away. And they plan to have an indoor golf practice facility down the road in the future.
Are there activities for residents?
Yes, lots. A full-time activities director plans everything from pickleball lessons and chair yoga to bingo, taco Tuesday, and pool parties.
A typical month has several activities per week, such as a Monday yoga class, musical trivia on Tuesday, a Silver Sneakers exercise class on Wednesday, a new owner's social on Thursday, coffee and pastries or afternoon tea on the deck on Friday.
How big are the homes?
Floor plans range from about 1,350 to 2,700 square feet. Most are single story homes with optional second stories that are great spaces for guests.
Can I customize my home?
Yes. When you choose your lot and floor plan, you also pick your finishes, including flooring, cabinets, and countertops.
How long does it take to build a home at Del Webb Savannah?
About 6 to 7 months from start to move-in.
Are there move-in-ready homes?
Sometimes. Builders often have homes already under construction that can close sooner. Someone might put down a deposit and start building and later have to cancel. Ask what’s available when you visit. Move in ready homes are great if you're in a hurry, but there are no options for customization most of the time.
Is there healthcare near Del Webb Savannah?
Yes. St. Joseph’s/Candler Urgent Care is less than a mile away, a St. Joseph’s/Candler medical complex is planned next door, and St. Joseph’s/Candler Hospital is about 20 miles away. St. Joe's is about 10 miles away and Memorial Hospital is about 22 miles away.
Will there be assisted living at Heartwood?
It’s in the plan. The Heartwood master plan includes independent living, assisted living, and memory care, though those aren’t built yet. We do not yet have a timeline for construction.
Do I need my own real estate agent to buy at Del Webb Savannah?
While it's not required it’s a smart move. The sales team works for the seller (the builder,) and your own agent works for you. In most new construction sales, the builder pays the buyer’s agent, so having your own representation typically doesn’t cost you any extra money. Just bring your agent with you on your first visit. I love representing buyers and I'd be delighted to help you move into this beautiful community. Read some reviews from happy clients here.
Is Del Webb Savannah a good alternative to Sun City Hilton Head?
It certainly can be. Sun City is larger, older, and more established, with golf and decades of history. Del Webb Savannah is brand new, in Georgia, and closer to Savannah and Florida. The best fit depends on the lifestyle and location you want.
My Honest Take: Is Del Webb Savannah Right for You?
Del Webb Savannah is a great fit if you’re 55+ and want:
- A brand-new home you can personalize
- Very little yard work or home maintenance
- A built-in social life and things to do
- Shopping and healthcare close by
- A home that's in perfect condition when you move in and won't require endless updating, renovating, or fixing things that have worn out.
It may not be the right fit if you’re shopping for the lowest price. With homes starting in the mid $300,000s plus monthly HOA dues, this isn’t the cheapest option around Savannah.
There are less expensive homes in Chatham, Effingham, and Bryan counties. They just don’t come with the lifestyle package. And if you need to move quickly, ask about homes that are already under construction or are finished and ready for a new owner, since a new build takes several months.
Thinking About Retiring in Savannah?
Choosing a community is a big decision, and you don’t have to figure it out alone. First, feel free to download my Ultimate Savannah Relocation Guide here. Book a free Relocation Strategy Session with me. We’ll talk about what you want in your next chapter, whether Del Webb Savannah fits, and what other options might be a better match. No pressure, no contract, and definitely no sales pitch.
Book your free Relocation Strategy Session
Thanks for reading!
Karin
