If you’ve ever wanted to live somewhere with porches, live oaks and neighbors who actually wave, Guyton might be your spot. This little Effingham County town grew up along the railroad in the 1800s, and its historic district is still full of gorgeous old Victorian homes. Every December the whole town shows off during Christmas in Guyton, and trust me, it’s worth the drive. [Edit: the Christmas Tour of Homes ended in 2008. See the longer version below.]

But Guyton isn’t just old houses. You’ll also find newer neighborhoods with bigger lots and more house for your money than you’d get closer to Savannah. It’s a good fit if you want room to breathe, a slower pace, and a commute of roughly 45 minutes to downtown Savannah. Pooler, Rincon and Springfield are all close by for shopping and errands.

Thinking about Guyton? I’ll tell you the real story on the neighborhoods, the commute, and what living out here is actually like.