Thunderbolt

Thunderbolt

Located in Chatham County

$566,638 Average Value
$255 Average Price per Sq Ft
4 Homes For Sale

Quiet waterfront living near Downtown Savannah

Named for a historic lightning strike that struck town two centuries ago, Thunderbolt is an east Savannah enclave overlooking the Wilmington River. The river's marshy wetlands hug the community's watery edge, providing scenic views for many homeowners. The town's role as a processing port for the fishing community contributed to its early growth, in addition to the evolution of Savannah State University next door, the oldest public HBCU in Georgia, dating to the late 19th Century. Thunderbolt's amalgamation of industry, history and natural scenery draws a large pool of buyers.

Suburban seclusion on the Wilmington River

“As you travel farther away from the city, the architectural ages change. You move away from downtown’s 19th Century styles and into the 1940s and 1950s,” says Joel Soloman, Realtor at Century 21 Solomon properties and Savannah local. Thunderbolt homes range from simple midcentury ranch styles to riverfront condos to cozy beach cottages. Old oaks and maples shade the narrow residential streets, their outstretched branches swathed with Savannah's signature Spanish moss. Thunderbolt prices vary depending on the home's size, location and condition, starting around $350,000 and reaching almost $1 million. “It’s also more affordable as you travel away from downtown,’ Soloman says. The small town's limited inventory drives a competitive market, and most listings find new owners within a few weeks.

Many homes throughout Thunderbolt have been thoughtfully renovated.
Many homes throughout Thunderbolt have been thoughtfully renovated.

Marinas, parks and historical cemeteries

Thunderbolt locals visit W.E. Honey Park to set the kids loose on the playground or to drop a line in from the docks. Cesaroni Park's smaller spread is the daily go-to – smack-dab in the middle of town. Thunderbolt homeowners can head to the marina on sunny weekends for a day out on the water. Savannah's famed Bonaventure Cemetery is also in town, known for its part in the bestselling novel "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil." Pink azaleas hedge the tree-lined walkways of the historic grounds, where Thunderbolt residents can escape for scenic walks. The Thunderbolt Museum serves as a local gathering place and preserves the town's long history.

Visit W.E. Honey Park to fish along the Wilmington River.
Visit W.E. Honey Park to fish along the Wilmington River.

Maritime meals on Wilmington River

Victory Square is steps away from some west side locals, the area's largest shopping hub anchored by a Target and a Home Depot. The McAlpin Square shopping mall is across the highway from Kroger, where residents can take care of their weekly shops. Seafood-focused dining dominates Thunderbolt's thriving restaurant scene, with eateries scattered across the water's edge. Tubby's Tank House is a long-time local favorite known for river views, live music and the fresh catch of the day. Sisters of the New South is another popular local spot, it's soul food specials made famous by a Food Network feature. Coach's Corner is the neighborhood music venue, where bands play under a light-strung pavilion several nights a week.

Erica Davis Lowcountry has served residents of Thunderbolt for over twenty years.
Erica Davis Lowcountry has served residents of Thunderbolt for over twenty years.

Sol C. Johnson students earn college credit

Kids who grow up in Thunderbolt can attend the Savannah-Chatham County Public School System. Many begin at Shuman Elementary and continue to Hubert Middle before finishing at Sol C. Johnson High. Each public school has an overall Niche rating of C-minus or higher and is within a 10-minute drive for most Thunderbolt residents. Johnson High students can take advantage of a dual enrollment program, earning college credits from schools like Georgia Southern University during their senior years. There are also several private school options close to town for buyers interested in exploring education alternatives.

Five miles to Downtown Savannah and Truman Parkway nearby

The 5-mile ride into Downtown Savannah typically takes less than 15 minutes by way of Harry S. Truman Parkway, with an inlet a few minutes away. Route 80 runs directly through town, routing residents westward into the city or to the quiet island towns in the opposite direction. Tybee Island is the local beach, less than 15 miles away, where residents can spend a day on the sand. The Memorial Health University Medical Center is 3 miles away and is a prominent regional employer. The Savannah Hilton Head International Airport is on the opposite side of the city, roughly 15 miles west, or a 30-minute drive without major delays.

Thunderbolt is located along Highway 80 allowing easy access to Savannah and Tybee Island.
Thunderbolt is located along Highway 80 allowing easy access to Savannah and Tybee Island.
Caeleigh Griffin
Written By
Caeleigh Griffin
Jonathan Dean
Photography Contributed By
Jonathan Dean
Ruo Zheng
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Ruo Zheng

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Open Houses

  • Sunday, Jun 1
    12 - 2pm

    3005 River Dr Unit 209B, Savannah, GA 31404

    $435,000

    • 2 Beds
    • 2.5 Baths
    • 1,548 Sq Ft
    • 3005 River Dr
    • Unit 209B
    • New 12 days ago

    Riverview 2BR/2.5BA 1548sqft Condo at Warsaw Buff in Thunderbolt. Recently Underwent $70k in Renovations!! Brand New Waterproof Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring, Brand New Paint, Tankless Instant Hot Water Heater, New Closet Shelving, New Thermostat, New Shower Door in Primary Suite w/10yr Warranty, etc! Kitchen w/Stainless Steel Appliances, Granite Countertops, White Shaker Cabinets & Breakfast Bar

    Jenny Rutherford Jenny Rutherford Real Estate,

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Interested in learning more about homes in this area? Reach out to Lana Halta Sanders, an experienced agent in this area.

Average Home Value



Source: Public Records
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Thunderbolt