Once owned by such families as the Morgans, Vanderbilts, Rockefeller, Macy, Pulitzer and the like, Jekyll Island has a long history of being the playground for the rich and famous during the latter part of the 19th Century and into the 20th century, up until the Great Depression.  These families used the Island as their winter get-aways, arriving by yacht and staying in their 'cottages' built along the marsh side of the Island.  Golf courses were built as were marinas to handle the yachts, and clubhouses and other amenities to provide recreation for these elite owners.

Purchased by the State of Georgia in 1947, it wasn't until 1978 that the 240 acre area around the club and former 'cottages' were designation National Historic Landmarks.

Today, the Island is still owned by the State of Georgia with development limited on the Island.  All private residences on the Island are subject to a land-lease with the state.  All home owners must pay a monthly lease to the state along with a required 'fire fee.'  The Island itself is known for it's wide beaches, modest hotels and restaurants.  Limited development on the Island creates a very natural environment mixed with residential use and historic settings for a truly unique experience.

Unlike St. Simons Island, most homes are located on interior lots not directly on the beach to preserve the beach ecology.  Condo developments are also limited to certain areas and sizes.  Currently, homes today run in the upper $300's on up to about $1,000,000.  Condo sales average from the high-$100's to the mid-$200's.