NEWS

The Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce held its annual Economic Outlook Luncheon last week at the Savannah Convention Center, welcoming more than 900 Chamber members for an in-depth look at the economic landscape ahead.

Attendees heard from Santanu Chatterjee, Interim Dean of the University of Georgia Terry College of Business, and Dr. Michael Toma, Professor of Economics at Georgia Southern University’s Parker College of Business, who shared projections for Georgia and the Savannah region in 2026.

According to economists, both the Georgia and Savannah economies are expected to continue growing in 2026, albeit at a slower and more measured pace. While some sectors are anticipated to remain soft, overall growth is projected to remain positive. Notably, Savannah is forecast to outperform both the state and the nation, driven by its diverse and resilient economic base.

2026 Growth Outlook

Economists predict steady but modest economic growth for 2026, with Savannah continuing to outpace broader state and national trends.

Key Growth Drivers

• Tourism remains a major strength, with millions of visitors continuing to support the local economy.
• Shipping and logistics, fueled by activity at the Port of Savannah, remain critical economic engines.
• Additional growth is expected in manufacturing, healthcare, and military-related operations.

Challenges and Risks

• Ongoing inflation and potential tariff impacts could place pressure on businesses, particularly small businesses.
• Housing costs remain elevated, with home prices significantly higher than pre-pandemic levels.

Labor Market

Unemployment is expected to edge slightly higher in 2026 compared to 2025, though rates are projected to remain relatively low overall.

 Looking Ahead

Overall, the 2026 forecast points to steady, manageable growth across Georgia—and especially in Savannah—even amid economic headwinds.

The Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce remains committed to helping members navigate the year ahead through strong advocacy, meaningful networking opportunities, and continued efforts to highlight Savannah’s strengths to audiences across the state, nation, and world.

To view the digital version of the Chamber’s 2026 Economic Trends booklet, click HERE.