Savanna is a gated, newer-build community in Lakewood Ranch known for its distinctive architectural style, energy-efficient homes, and resort-style amenities. Developed by Meritage Homes between 2016 and 2022, Savanna offers a different look and feel than many of the coastal- or Bahamian-inspired villages found throughout Lakewood Ranch.
With its Spanish-influenced design, larger homes, and relatively moderate HOA fees for an amenity-rich community, living in Savanna appeals to buyers who want something visually distinct while still enjoying the benefits of a master-planned setting.
The Village Guru™ Snapshot
HOME STYLE
Large single-family homes with Spanish-inspired architecture
Buyer Profile
Families, move-up buyers, and energy-conscious homeowners
Community Feel
Gated, private, and visually distinct from nearby villages
Price Positioning
Mid-range for newer Lakewood Ranch resale communities
Ongoing Costs
HOA with resort amenities, historically moderate for the area
Location Trade-Off
Short drives required for shopping and daily conveniences
Savanna is located just south of State Road 64 and west of Lorraine Road, placing it within the northern portion of Lakewood Ranch. Development occurred over a focused timeframe, resulting in a cohesive neighborhood with consistent design language and landscaping.
Unlike many Lakewood Ranch communities that lean heavily into coastal or Bahamian aesthetics, Savanna features white stucco exteriors, clay roof tiles, and Mediterranean-influenced details that give the neighborhood a more Spanish character. This distinct style tends to resonate strongly with some buyers while being less appealing to others, making Savanna a community people often feel strongly about one way or the other.
While the neighborhood is not walkable to grocery stores or retail, daily necessities are only a short drive away along State Road 64 and Lakewood Ranch Boulevard.
Savanna Lakewood Ranch homes are predominantly larger single-family residences, generally ranging from approximately 2,000 to 4,000 square feet. Floor plans emphasize open-concept great rooms, upper-floor laundry spaces, multiple bathrooms, and generous walk-in closets.
While Meritage Homes was a primary builder in the community, Savanna includes homes built by multiple builders, contributing to subtle variations in layout, finishes, and construction details across the neighborhood. Many homes back onto water features, providing tranquil backyard views that enhance the overall living experience. Across the community, there is a noticeable emphasis on energy efficiency, modern systems, and functional design.
Savanna is fully built out, meaning buyers will find resale-only opportunities rather than new construction.
Savanna offers a full suite of resort-style amenities within its gated setting, while historically maintaining HOA fees that are lower than some comparable amenity-heavy communities in Lakewood Ranch.
The community center includes a clubhouse, resort-style pool, fitness center, playground, and dog run. While the amenities may feel more functional than luxurious in design compared to some newer villages, they provide everything needed for recreation, fitness, and casual socializing close to home.
HOA fees remain very reasonable compared to other lifestyle-focused communities in a similar price range, though costs and coverage can change over time.
Savanna’s location provides convenient access to major roadways while maintaining a sense of separation from busier commercial corridors. Shopping, grocery stores, and dining options are easily reached along State Road 64 and Lakewood Ranch Boulevard, typically within a short drive.
Residents also benefit from proximity to other Lakewood Ranch amenities and services, including parks, medical facilities, and regional employment centers, without being directly adjacent to high-traffic retail zones.
Homes in Savanna are served by nearby public schools based on address zoning, including B.D. Gullett Elementary School, Carlos E. Haile Middle School, R. Dan Nolan Middle School, and Lakewood Ranch High School.
Florida does offer school choice options; however, availability is often limited—particularly in high-growth areas—and placement outside a home’s assigned school zone is not guaranteed. Charter and private school options are also located throughout the region. Buyers are encouraged to verify school zoning and enrollment availability directly with the school district prior to purchase.
Savanna is best suited for buyers who want newer, larger homes with modern layouts and energy-efficient construction, but prefer a neighborhood that stands apart stylistically from much of Lakewood Ranch.
Families and move-up buyers often appreciate the home sizes and gated setting, while energy-conscious homeowners value Meritage’s focus on efficiency and smart home features. Buyers who prioritize walkability to retail may find the location less ideal, while those comfortable with short drives tend to view this as a reasonable trade-off.
Buyer Consideration
Savanna offers a distinctive design aesthetic, larger homes, and a gated environment with resort-style amenities. Buyers considering the community should be comfortable with HOA-managed living, resale-only inventory, and a location that requires driving for most daily errands.
Comparing Savanna with other Lakewood Ranch communities can help clarify whether its architectural style, HOA structure, and overall lifestyle align with your priorities and long-term plans.
To understand how Savanna at Lakewood Ranch fits within the broader Lakewood Ranch landscape, it helps to compare it to other nearby options.
Yes. Savanna features gated access, providing added privacy and controlled entry.
No. Savanna completed sales in 2022 and now offers resale homes only.
Savanna consists primarily of mid sized and larger single-family homes with open-concept layouts and modern features.
Yes. Amenities include a clubhouse, pool, fitness center, playground, and dog run.
Savanna is not walkable to daily amenities; most shopping and dining require a short drive.
I help buyers and sellers in Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, and Manatee County make informed real estate decisions — without hype, pressure, or guesswork.
No pressure. Just a clear conversation about your options.