The port facilities have always been a primary economic driver, although some of this activity has shifted south towards Brunswick. Hospitality and tourism are important, and the area also has some paper, aerospace and general industry, but not enough to drive strong employment numbers or extensive career opportunities. The economy, arts, and education are getting a boost by the many northerners moving into the area. Coastal islands to the east, particularly Tybee Island, offer beaches, recreation, and fine seafood restaurants.

Savannah is located on a coastal plain a few miles inland from the Atlantic along the Savannah River. Areas particularly to the north and east are flat with marshes. Land to the south and west is a mix of agriculture, woods, and swamps. The nearby Atlantic moderates the climate most of the time. Muggy conditions can occur in summer when sea breezes diminish. Most summer days are clear and pleasant. Winter temperatures are usually mild and snow is rare. Strong northwesterly blasts of cold air are usually blocked by the Appalachians. Most precipitation comes as summer thunderstorms. Severe tropical storms affect the area about once every 10 years.