Community Data Dashboard

East Savannah United serves the East Savannah neighborhood in Savannah, GA

With a historic and diverse population, the East side is rich with stories of legacy, hard work, families, professionals, and faith. Because of this dynamic history, the core values of live, work, worship, and play are the roots of our community. East Savannah United prioritizes these same values, along with trust, community, equity, and learning. We are committed to reviving the East Side of Savannah one home, one family, one future at a time.

Over the years, this community has experienced the harmful impact of policies like redlining, which led to disinvestment going back to 1929. Initiatives from the City of Savannah, Chatham County, nonprofit organizations, and community voices like Eastside Concerned Citizens, have worked persistently to create a vibrant neighborhood for Eastern Savannah residents. Many of our legacy residents are aging, but they serve as guides for the next generation who are stepping up to carry the mantle of building a sustainable community.

The dashboard shows community data for both the East Savannah neighborhood and the City of Savannah, GA. The data presented here represent short-term outcomes in the theory of change for the Purpose Built Communities Model. These charts help us understand our progress toward equitable outcomes, defined as a community metric reaching parity or better with the status of the city.

In the dashboard, you can explore the most recent data available related to housing stability, education, health, access to care, ability to pay for other expenses, and employment.

East Savannah | How do we estimate neighborhood indicators?

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HOUSING STABILITY

We look at multiple measures to understand housing stability, which tells us that a neighborhood is somewhere that people feel invested in. Stable housing is also foundational for health, education, and economic prosperity. Information here is from the American Community Survey 5-year estimate and our local school district.

Since homeownership is one of the most attainable ways to obtain generational wealth, East Savannah United has built trust with legacy residents, encouraging them to hold on to their property and supporting them in maintaining it. We are strengthening relationships with Habitat for Humanity, the Housing Authority of Savannah, and the Chatham-Savannah Land Bank Authority. The City of Savannah has also created funding opportunities through the DreamMaker Home Purchase Assistance Program, which assists with down payments and closing costs.

Despite these incredible programs, many legacy residents face a major barrier where they have to compete with investors, which is accelerating displacement and gentrification. The value of neighboring properties is beginning to increase because new property owners can move in and rehab their properties, whereas older, legacy residents cannot due to fixed incomes.

East Savannah | Savannah, GA

Community longevity

Share of households (renters and owners) who have lived at current address for eight or more years

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Community longevity

This variable estimates the proportion of households (renters and owners) that have lived at their current address for eight or more years. This estimate is derived from the American Community Survey (ACS), which tracks the tenure of householders. While the ACS collects data on length of residence annually, comparing this data across years is challenging due to how the Census Bureau reports it in time ranges. As a result, we present estimates for 2012 and 2022 to show the share of long-term residents. This metric provides insight into the housing stability and resident retention in a community, reflecting neighborhood cohesion and potential economic stability.

Source: American Community Survey 5-year estimate

Homeownership rate

Share of households who own their current residence

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Homeownership rate

This variable estimates the share of households that own their current residence versus those that rent. Housing units acquired with a mortgage or other lending arrangements are classified as "owned," even if repayment is not yet complete. This data helps to understand homeownership rates and housing stability within a community.

Source: American Community Survey 5-year estimate

School mobility

Share of students who change schools during the school year

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School mobility

This variable estimates the share of students in a school that change schools during the school year. This includes moves both in and out of the school. High rates of school mobility can be linked to housing instability, as families frequently relocate due to changes in housing availability, affordability, or employment circumstances. This disrupts not only the educational continuity for students but also signals potential instability in the broader community’s housing situation.

Source: State Education Agencies

ECONOMIC VITALITY

Formerly an epicenter of work, family, faith, and play, the Eastern quadrant of Savannah held the Savannah Sports Arena, schools, businesses, and more. Economic vitality reflects whether residents have access to resources, opportunities, and stability needed to thrive. Information shown here is drawn from the American Community Survey 5-year estimates.

In East Savannah, this means strengthening pathways to employment, supporting entrepreneurship, expanding homeownership opportunities, and ensuring families can afford to remain in the community as investment grows. A vibrant local economy includes neighborhood-serving businesses, quality jobs, and housing options that allow residents to build long-term financial security.

Our data signals that many households continue to face limited economic mobility and financial vulnerability. Not to mention, almost half of our households are struggling to meet their needs after paying for housing. Though there has been improvement over the last decade, affordability pressures remain prevalent.

East Savannah United’s vision for economic vitality is to connect residents to jobs, small-business opportunities, homeownership pathways, and equitable development strategies, so that neighborhood growth results in shared prosperity for current residents and future generations.

East Savannah | Savannah, GA

Cost-burdened households (30%+ on housing costs)

Share of households that spend >30% of household income on housing costs

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Cost-burdened households (30%+ on housing costs)

This variable estimates the share of households that pay 30% or more of their household income on housing-related costs, such as rent or mortgage and utilities. It indicates the financial burden of housing costs on households and helps identify those at risk of housing instability. When housing costs consume a large portion of income, households may struggle to afford other essential expenses like food, healthcare, and transportation, limiting their overall financial flexibility.

Source: American Community Survey 5-year estimate

Residents below 200% FPL

Share of residents living below 200% of the Federal Poverty Line

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Residents below 200% FPL

This variable estimates the share of residents living below 200% of the Federal Poverty Line (FPL). It considers total family income, family size, number of children, and the age of the householder (under/over age 65). By expanding the threshold to 200% of the FPL, this metric provides a broader view of economic hardship, capturing low-income residents who may not fall under the official poverty line but still face significant challenges in meeting basic needs. These individuals often struggle to afford essential expenses like housing, healthcare, and food, which can impact their overall financial stability and well-being.

Source: American Community Survey 5-year estimate

EMPLOYMENT

Employment is a key indicator of household stability, economic mobility, and long-term neighborhood prosperity. East Savannah has demonstrated strong employment over time, suggesting that many neighborhood residents are connected to work and continue to contribute to the broader regional economy.

East Savannah’s workforce history is rooted in industry, transportation, and skilled labor. Over time, changes in ownership, industrial shifts, and disinvestment reduced traditional employment anchors and contributed to broader neighborhood decline, impacting housing and commercial vitality.

Today, East Savannah residents are employed across several major sectors that drive the Savannah economy. Due to the neighborhood’s proximity to Downtown Savannah, many residents work in hospitality. Residents are also connected to logistics, warehousing, manufacturing, and port-related employment opportunities that continue to grow across the region.

East Savannah United’s vision for employment is to build stronger pathways to quality jobs, living-wage careers, and entrepreneurship. Priorities include workforce training, childcare solutions, transportation access, entrepreneurship, and career advancement pipelines. By removing barriers and increasing opportunities, East Savannah can build on its employment stability and expand economic mobility for residents.

East Savannah | Savannah, GA

Employment rate

Share of residents 16 and older in the labor force who are currently employed

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Employment rate

This variable estimates the proportion of adults actively participating in the labor force who are currently employed. This variable is based on the universe of individuals aged 16 and over, excluding those not actively seeking work (e.g., retirees, students, or those discouraged from job hunting). The data is sourced from the American Community Survey (ACS), which defines the labor force as people either working or actively seeking employment. By calculating the share of those employed among this group, the employment rate provides a snapshot of labor market engagement and economic activity within a community. This variable is essential for understanding local job availability and workforce utilization over time.

Source: American Community Survey 5-year estimate

Median earnings

Median earnings (dollars) for full-time, year-round workers

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Median earnings

This variable estimates the typical earnings of adults working full-time, year-round, reflecting the midpoint of income distribution among such workers. Specifically, it represents the median earnings—the value at which half of workers earn more and half earn less—based on the universe of individuals aged 16 and over who meet the criteria for full-time employment (working 35 or more hours per week) throughout the year. The data is sourced from the American Community Survey (ACS), specifically Census Table S2001, and provides insight into economic well-being and income disparities within a community. By focusing on full-time, year-round workers, this variable offers a consistent measure of earnings that supports comparisons across different populations and regions over time.

Source: American Community Survey 5-year estimate

EDUCATION

The Eastern Savannah footprint has always valued education with various educational institutions from cradle to career. Due to systemic disinvestment, resource displacement, and the COVID-19 pandemic, data show a decline in access to early learning. However, there is still an ecosystem that allows our neighbors to choose the best education option for their children.

Through community engagement, East Savannah United has learned that many children are being cared for by family members within their networks. Strong social networks are keeping young children in home environments while parents maintain employment. These alternative childcare options are not captured through this dashboard’s official data.

The neighborhood has access to schools in the Savannah-Chatham County Public School System from pre-K through high school. Henderson E. Formey Early Learning is formerly the East Broad St. Elementary School. Additional pathways of success include charter and private school options. East Savannah United’s current focus is on early learning offerings and opportunities for families with infants 6 weeks old through age 4.

East Savannah | Savannah, GA

Pre-K enrollment

Share of 3 and 4 year olds enrolled in public or private school

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Pre-K enrollment

This variable estimates the share of children enrolled in Pre-K programs, which are designed to prepare young learners for the academic and social demands of kindergarten and beyond. Pre-K enrollment is widely recognized as a foundational step in a child’s educational journey, providing critical opportunities for cognitive, social, and emotional development. Research shows that children who attend high-quality Pre-K programs are more likely to perform well academically in later grades, graduate from high school, and achieve higher earning potential as adults. Early investment in Pre-K education helps close learning gaps, fostering long-term academic success and economic resilience.

Source: American Community Survey 5-year estimate

Third grade reading

Share of students meeting third grade reading standard

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Third grade reading

This variable estimates the share of third graders that are grade level proficient by the end of the school year on their end of year reading exams. Third-grade reading proficiency is widely recognized as a critical milestone for later academic success. Research shows that students who do not meet this benchmark are more likely to struggle in later grades, have lower high school graduation rates, and face challenges in career readiness. Proficiency in reading by third grade is essential for developing skills that impact future learning, which also affects their long-term ability to succeed economically and handle essential expenses as adults.

Source: State Education Agencies

Eighth grade math

Share of students meeting eighth grade math standard

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Eighth grade math

This variable estimates the share of eighth graders that are grade level proficient by the end of the school year on their end of year math exams. Eighth-grade math proficiency is widely recognized as a critical gateway for high school success and beyond. Research shows that students who do not meet this benchmark are less likely to succeed in high school algebra and advanced math courses, which are essential for college readiness and STEM career pathways. Proficiency in math by eighth grade is crucial for developing problem-solving and analytical skills that impact future learning across all subjects, which also affects their long-term ability to pursue higher-paying careers and achieve financial stability as adults.

Source: State Education Agencies

Graduation rate

Share of high school students who graduate in four years

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Graduation rate

This variable estimates the share of students who successfully graduate from high school within four years. High school graduation is a critical milestone that significantly influences a person’s future opportunities, including access to higher education, stable employment, and economic mobility. Research shows that individuals who graduate high school are more likely to secure higher-paying jobs, experience better health outcomes, and contribute positively to their communities. Achieving this benchmark not only reflects a student's academic perseverance but also serves as a foundation for lifelong success and the ability to navigate essential financial and personal responsibilities as adults.

Source: State Education Agencies

WELL-BEING

Well-being in East Savannah is about more than the absence of illness. It reflects whether families feel connected, safe, supported, and able to thrive in the place they call home. In our neighborhood, well-being looks like residents working together to shape a healthy community culture rooted in opportunity, belonging, and shared responsibility. It means creating a place where families can grow through work, play, learning, faith, recreation, and strong relationships with one another.

Our neighbors want more opportunities to gather, move, and celebrate community life. Over the years, systemic disinvestment has led to the closure or underutilization of parks and community centers. East Savannah United is working with residents, local and national partners to change that. Initiatives such as public space activations, resident-led events, and neighborhood experiences like our Backyard Boogie demonstrate how joy, connection, and shared spaces contribute to wellness.

East Savannah United’s vision for a neighborhood where well-being is visible in everyday life includes children playing safely, elders feeling connected, families accessing support, neighbors knowing one another, and residents leading solutions together. By prioritizing trust, health, culture, and connection, East Savannah can continue building a thriving community where everyone can belong and prosper.

A note about this data: The CDC PLACES estimates are based on the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) and American Community Survey (ACS), combined with census population data. These estimates are calculated using a method that combines real data from similar areas to provide insights at the neighborhood level. While the estimates are reliable, they may not directly reflect responses from residents in a specific neighborhood.

East Savannah | Savannah, GA

Estimated rate of diabetes

Estimated share of adults with diabetes

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Estimated rate of diabetes

This variable estimates the percentage of adults aged 18 and older who have been diagnosed with diabetes. According to the CDC, 8.5% of U.S. adults had diabetes in 2021. This condition disproportionately affects certain age, racial, and ethnic groups and is closely tied to the rising prevalence of obesity. Managing diabetes through regular monitoring of blood glucose, blood pressure, and lipids, along with healthy eating and physical activity, can help prevent long-term complications like eye, foot, and kidney problems.<br><br> The CDC PLACES estimates are based on the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) and American Community Survey (ACS), combined with census population data. These estimates are calculated using a method that combines real data from similar areas to provide insights at the neighborhood level. While the estimates are reliable, they may not directly reflect responses from residents in a specific neighborhood.

Source: Center for Disease Control PLACES

Estimated rate of hypertension

Estimated share of adults with hypertension

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Estimated rate of hypertension

This variable measures the percentage of adults with blood pressure ≥130/≥80 mmHg. According to the CDC, nearly 1 in 2 U.S. adults (47.3%) have hypertension. High blood pressure significantly raises the risk of stroke, heart disease, and kidney failure, and it costs the U.S. healthcare system over $52 billion annually. Managing hypertension through lifestyle changes and medical treatment can help prevent these serious health complications.<br><br> The CDC PLACES estimates are based on the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) and American Community Survey (ACS), combined with census population data. These estimates are calculated using a method that combines real data from similar areas to provide insights at the neighborhood level. While the estimates are reliable, they may not directly reflect responses from residents in a specific neighborhood.

Source: Center for Disease Control PLACES

Estimated rate of asthma

Estimated share of adults with asthma

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Estimated rate of asthma

This variable measures the percentage of adults currently diagnosed with asthma. According to the CDC, the rate has increased over time, rising from 6.9% in 2001 to 8.4% in 2020. The prevalence is highest among adults living below the poverty threshold (13.1%), and asthma often leads to additional health and economic challenges. Adults with asthma are more likely to report depression, unemployment, and physical limitations, emphasizing the need for ongoing medical management to improve quality of life and reduce the broader impact on daily functioning.<br><br> The CDC PLACES estimates are based on the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) and American Community Survey (ACS), combined with census population data. These estimates are calculated using a method that combines real data from similar areas to provide insights at the neighborhood level. While the estimates are reliable, they may not directly reflect responses from residents in a specific neighborhood.

Source: Center for Disease Control PLACES

Estimated self-reported mental health

Estimated share of adults who reported having 16 or more days in the past 30 days where their mental health was good

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Estimated self-reported mental health

Mental health status measures the percentage of adults who reported having 16 or more days of good mental health in the past 30 days. According to the CDC, self-reported health status is a reliable indicator of overall well-being and predicts important outcomes like mortality and functional status. Substantial differences exist in mental health based on factors such as age, race, education, and income. Monitoring self-reported mental health helps guide interventions and track progress at both individual and population levels.<br><br> The CDC PLACES estimates are based on the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) and American Community Survey (ACS), combined with census population data. These estimates are calculated using a method that combines real data from similar areas to provide insights at the neighborhood level. While the estimates are reliable, they may not directly reflect responses from residents in a specific neighborhood.

Source: Center for Disease Control PLACES

HEALTHCARE ACCESS

Health in the Purpose Built model extends beyond medical care. It includes the physical, mental, social, and environmental conditions that allow residents to live full and healthy lives. In East Savannah, health means access to quality care, safe places to gather, parks and green spaces, healthy food options, opportunities for movement, and a strong sense of belonging within the community.

East Savannah residents have identified the need for more recreational programming and spaces for youth and adults. As neighborhood patterns have changed over time, opportunities for structured recreation, gym activity, and community wellness engagement have declined. Reinvesting in recreation is an important strategy for improving both physical and mental health outcomes.

East Savannah United’s vision for health and well-being is to create a neighborhood where wellness is built into everyday life. Priorities include strengthening partnerships with healthcare providers, expanding access to preventive health care, increasing mental health supports, improving food access, activating parks and public spaces, and creating more recreational opportunities for all ages. Through resident voice, strategic partnerships, and place-based investment, East Savannah can continue building a healthier future where every family can thrive.

East Savannah | Savannah, GA

Health insurance coverage

Share of adults with health insurance (public and private)

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Health insurance coverage

This variable estimates the share of residents who had any public or private health insurance coverage. It helps to understand the extent of health coverage within a community, which is important for assessing access to healthcare services.

Source: American Community Survey 5-year estimate

Private health insurance

Share of adults with private health insurance

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Private health insurance

This variable estimates the share of residents who had any private health insurance coverage. It helps to understand the extent of health coverage within a community, which is important for assessing access to healthcare services.

Source: American Community Survey 5-year estimate

Public health insurance

Share of adults with public health insurance

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Public health insurance

This variable estimates the share of residents who had any public health insurance coverage (Medicare, Medicaid, and VA insurance). It helps to understand the extent of health coverage within a community, which is important for assessing access to healthcare services.

Source: American Community Survey 5-year estimate

Routine visit to doctor

Share of adults who visited the doctor for routine checkup within the past year

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Routine visit to doctor

Regular checkups refer to regular medical visits that help monitor and maintain overall health, and includes receiving recommended vaccinations, screenings, and blood tests in addition to checking blood pressure, weight, and cholesterol with the purpose of maintaining wellness. According to the CDC, obtaining regular checkups can reduce morbidity and premature mortality from chronic conditions (e.g., cardiovascular disease, cancer, chronic lower respiratory diseases, and diabetes). They also help prevent complications and reduce the need for emergency room visits. These preventive measures improve long-term health outcomes and reduce healthcare costs by addressing potential problems before they become urgent.

Source: Center for Disease Control PLACES

East Savannah United’s mission is to help lead the revitalization of Savannah’s Eastside by partnering with residents, institutions, and stakeholders to create thriving neighborhoods where families can live, learn, work, worship, and build lasting futures. We are committed to advancing equitable neighborhood transformation that honors the community’s history while creating new opportunities for future generations.

The data throughout this dashboard reflects both promise and possibility. It shows the resilience of East Savannah residents, signs of progress in key areas, and the strength that already exists within the community. It also highlights where deeper investment and coordinated action are still needed, particularly in housing stability, educational outcomes, economic mobility, health access, and neighborhood amenities that improve quality of life. These indicators help us better understand where we are today and what it will take to reach our shared vision. By tracking trends in education, employment, income, housing, wellness, and resident outcomes, we can make informed decisions, align resources, and measure progress over time. Data is an important tool, but it is most powerful when paired with resident voice, lived experience, and community leadership.

East Savannah United understands that neighborhood revitalization is long-term work measured in decades, not moments. Sustainable transformation requires consistent investment, cross-sector partnerships, and policies that keep residents at the center of every decision. It demands trust, patience, and a shared commitment to staying the course.

Our vision is an East Savannah where every family has access to opportunity, every block reflects pride and safety, and every resident can thrive in a community they helped shape. Together, with residents leading the way, we believe the future of the Eastside is strong, vibrant, and full of possibility.