Tybee Island is a thriving barrier island 18 miles east of Savannah, Ga. Located in Chatham County, it is considered Georgia’s easternmost point. The island was officially renamed Savannah Beach in the 1950s, a move supported by Tybee Island real estate agents for its promotional appeal, but the city has since reverted to Tybee Island. Tybee Island real estate company maps may still reference the former name.
Growing Population
This area is a popular vacation spot, but its proximity to Savannah and easy access through U.S. Route 80 has driven the interest in Tybee Island real estate listings especially for year-round residences. Census numbers indicate that the total population of the island in 2010 is about 3,700 with the numbers swelling during the winter. The median age for residents is still young at 53.2 years. In 2011, the median income for Tybee Island households was estimated at $48,675, which is higher than the state median income of $46,007. The unemployment rate is significantly below state average with employed residents reporting average commute of 16 minutes.
State of the Tybee Island Real Estate Market
For an area with stunning views of the water and salt marshes, Tybee island real estate is in the affordable range. Median house and condominium values in 2011 were estimated at $247,043, which is above the state median of $147,100. Of the 12,059 houses counted in Tybee Island real estate, about 65 percent are owner occupied. Tybee Island real estate listings are a treasure trove of information about the secrets of laid back living on the island. The housing density is 216 houses or condos for every square mile and a population density of 668 people per square mile.
Attractions on Tybee Island
Look beyond the Tybee Island real estate listings to understand what draws many successful people to this community. The beach is almost three miles of uninterrupted sand and have been a popular summer getaway even before the Georgia Railroad and Route 80 connected Tybee to the mainland. Local and visitors alike are always mindful of the leatherbacks and loggerhead turtles that nest on this famous beach.
Tybee Island real estate agents are art and history connoisseurs because the island has so much to offer by way of the island’s four National Historic Districts and several homes that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Tybee Lighthouse is one of few operational 18th century lighthouses in the nation. Art galleries and artists’ workshops are present on the island as are live performance venues such as the Tybee Post Theater.
For nature lovers, Tybee island real estate agents point to the Bird Sanctuary on the northern tip. Birdwatchers have spotted red-throated loons, black skimmers and Tybee’s official bird, the painted bunting. Fishing enthusiasts can opt for a fishing charter, fish on the docks or in the surf. Consult a Tybee Island real estate company for the best fishing spots and other little-known facts on island living that only the locals would know.
It’s all on Tybee Island
Any Tybee Island real estate company is proud of the fact that the area is self-sufficient in terms of having it all on the island. Restaurants offer a wide range of dining choices, party venues and nightlife options. Hotel accommodations range from charming cottages to luxury resorts for those times when guests come to stay a while. Shops, fitness centers and healthcare providers are all right here on Tybee island.