From 1880 until the roaring 1920s, streetcars made it possible for Savannahians to live in what is now known as the Thomas Square Streetcar Historic District or the Starland District. The ease of public transportation supported the development of Savannah’s first suburb, featuring large lots and a remarkable collection of architectural styles, ranging from Queen Anne Victorian to Neoclassical Revival.

Although streetcars no longer run through this neighborhood, the Starland District, which is named after the old Starland Dairy that once served as an anchor on Bull Street, is currently experiencing a renaissance, appealing to a wide range of real estate buyers. The New York Times has described the area as a “creative incubator,” attracting artists, entrepreneurs and Savannah College of Art and Design students. Southern Living recently named this dynamic area the #1 Neighborhood in the South.

Bounded to the west by Montgomery Street, to the east by East Broad Street, to the north by Anderson Lane and the south by Victory Drive, the Thomas Square Streetcar Historic District has gone through many changes over the years and has quickly become one of Savannah’s hottest neighborhoods.

Once home to a significant number of investment properties affected by urban blight, today the Thomas Square neighborhood has been lovingly restored, with magnificent Victorian homes lining shady streets. Popular restaurants and inviting cafes now serve as a magnet, attracting residents from across the area. With its selection of food trucks, the Starland Yard provides a casual, family- friendly destination for food and drink in the heart of the neighborhood.

The Thomas Square Streetcar Historic District earned a place on the National Register of Historic Places in 1997 and, in the past few years, has appealed to millennials looking for quirky shops, eclectic art galleries, vintage-style cafes and colorful backdrops for Instagram photos. To the east of the Starland District, another notable neighborhood is Baldwin Park, which offers a family-friendly mix of historic bungalows, two-story homes and neighborhood parks. Nestled just north of Victory Drive, Baldwin Park is conveniently located near Savannah Arts Academy, Daffin Park and all that downtown Savannah officers.

In recent years, the Starland neighborhood has seen significant increases in property values, as the neighborhood’s reputation has grown. The Bull Street Library and the Gingerbread House, originally built in 1889 and now a popular wedding location, serve as anchors in the neighborhood.

The planned Starland Village promises to bring a mix of retail, dining and residential amenities to Bull Street and is expected to spark further development in the neighborhood. Prices are expected to continue to climb in the Starland District. Now is a great time to invest in this vibrant neighborhood, which offers an exceptional experience for families, young professionals, students and retirees.