He’s gone. After decades of terrifying opposing offensive coordinators and demanding "The Process" from every soul in Tuscaloosa, Nick Saban finally stepped away. But he didn't just disappear into the woods. He went to the water. Specifically, the Nick Saban house on Lake Burton has become the unofficial headquarters for the greatest coach in college football history to finally, maybe, just relax a little bit.
Lake Burton isn't your average weekend getaway. Located in Rabun County, Georgia, it’s a place where the air feels different. It’s quiet. It’s tucked into the Blue Ridge Mountains. For a guy who spent his entire life under the blistering neon lights of 100,000-seat stadiums, the transition to a $17.5 million lakefront estate is quite the pivot.
You’ve probably seen the headlines. The price tag alone makes your head spin. But for Saban, this wasn't just a splurge; it was a calculated move. He’s been a Lake Burton regular for years, previously owning a slightly "humbler" place nearby. This new spot, though? It’s a statement.
The $17.5 Million View: Breaking Down the Property
Let’s be real. When you’ve won seven national championships, you aren't looking for a fixer-upper. Saban’s newest acquisition is a massive 10,000-square-foot masterpiece. It sits on nearly 10 acres. That kind of privacy is hard to find on a popular North Georgia lake. Most houses are stacked on top of each other, but not this one.
The house features six bedrooms and nine bathrooms. That seems like a lot for a man and his wife, Terry, but you have to remember the Saban clan is growing. Grandkids need space. The architecture is a mix of rustic mountain charm and high-end luxury—think heavy stone, dark wood beams, and floor-to-ceiling glass that stares right at the water.
One of the most striking things about the Nick Saban house on Lake Burton is the shoreline. It has 700 feet of it. That’s unheard of. Most people are lucky to get 50 or 100 feet. He’s got a private dock, obviously, because Nick Saban isn't going to a public marina to gas up his boat. Can you imagine him waiting in line behind a guy who can’t back a trailer? He’d start coaching the guy on his "fundamentals" within two minutes.
Why Lake Burton? It's Not Just About the Water
You might wonder why a guy synonymous with Alabama would buy a massive estate in Georgia. Isn't that enemy territory? Well, sort of. But Lake Burton has a long history of attracting the elite who want to stay under the radar. It’s the "Lake Como of the South."
People like Alan Jackson and Zac Brown have called this place home. It’s about the culture. On Lake Burton, people generally leave you alone. Saban can take his boat out, go for a swim, or grab a burger at Milton’s or the Lake Burton Boat Club without being mobbed by fans asking about the transfer portal.
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The lake itself is unique. It’s a Georgia Power lake, meaning the water levels are managed, and the shoreline is kept pristine. The water is remarkably clear because it’s fed by mountain streams. Honestly, it’s the perfect environment for someone who thrives on order and cleanliness. Saban is a man of routine. He likes things "just so." Lake Burton provides that consistency.
The Famous "Morning Routine" on the Water
We’ve all heard the stories about Saban’s daily habits. The two Oatmeal Creme Pies for breakfast. The specific time he arrives at the office. Even in retirement, he hasn’t totally let go.
Word around the lake is that he’s often out on the water early. Not necessarily to fish, though he does some of that, but just to be out there. There’s a certain peace in the fog coming off the Blue Ridge Mountains at 6:00 AM. For a man who spent 50 years screaming over the sound of whistles and pads, that silence is probably the ultimate luxury.
Comparing the New Build to the Old Place
Saban isn't new to Rabun County. He previously owned a home on the lake that he sold around 2023 for roughly $11 million. That house was spectacular in its own right—custom-built, beautiful views, the whole nine yards. So why move?
Basically, it comes down to the lot. The new property at 1900 West Shore Drive is on a peninsula. It offers 270-degree views of the lake. In the world of real estate, that’s the "holy grail." You aren't just looking at the water; you are surrounded by it.
The interior of the new Nick Saban house on Lake Burton is reported to be less "stuffy" than your typical multi-million dollar mansion. It’s designed for living. There are massive outdoor living spaces, screened-in porches with fireplaces, and a kitchen that could probably feed the entire Crimson Tide offensive line.
- Property Size: 9.6 acres (very rare for lakefront)
- Square Footage: ~10,000 sq. ft.
- Bathrooms: 9 (because why not?)
- Unique Feature: A custom-built boathouse that looks more like a guest cottage.
The Financials of a Coaching Legend
Saban’s career earnings are astronomical. Between his massive contracts at Alabama and his various endorsements, he’s worth an estimated $100 million or more. Spending $17.5 million on a legacy home is actually a pretty sound investment for someone in his bracket.
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Real estate on Lake Burton doesn't exactly go down in value. It’s a finite resource. They aren't making more mountain lakes in North Georgia. By buying the best lot on the lake, he’s essentially parked his money in a "trophy asset."
But it’s also about the lifestyle transition. Saban is now working with ESPN on College GameDay. He needs a place where he can prep for his segments in peace. The house features a state-of-the-art office—likely filled with memorabilia that would make any sports museum jealous—where he can watch film and stay sharp. He isn't the type to just sit on a porch swing and do nothing. He’s still "The GOAT." He’s just doing it in a nicer shirt.
Living the "Process" in Retirement
Many fans were worried about what Nick would do without a team to lead. Would he get bored? Would he drive Miss Terry crazy?
The Nick Saban house on Lake Burton seems to be the answer. It’s a project. A man like Saban needs a project. Managing a massive estate, keeping the grounds perfect, and hosting family gatherings gives him a new type of "Process" to focus on.
It’s also a place for his former players to visit. Over the years, Saban has become a father figure to hundreds of men. Don’t be surprised if you see former Heisman winners or NFL stars docking their boats at the Saban residence. It’s become a lighthouse for the Alabama football family.
Common Misconceptions About the Saban Lake House
A lot of people think he moved there to get away from Alabama. That’s just not true. He still has an office in Bryant-Denny Stadium. He’s still involved as an advisor. The Georgia house is his sanctuary, not his bunker.
Another myth is that he’s "retired" in the traditional sense. If you know anything about Nick Saban, you know he doesn't have an "off" switch. He’s likely coaching the landscapers on their "gap discipline" when they’re planting shrubs. He’s still Nick. He’s just Nick with a better view.
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What This Means for Lake Burton Real Estate
Whenever a high-profile figure like Saban buys into an area, it drives interest. Prices on Lake Burton were already high, but the "Saban Effect" is real. It validates the lake as a top-tier destination for the ultra-wealthy.
If you’re looking to buy in the area, be prepared. Inventory is low. Most homes stay in families for generations. When a property like the one Saban bought hits the market, it’s a once-in-a-generation event.
Actionable Takeaways for Following the Saban Lifestyle
You might not have $17 million for a lake house, but there are ways to appreciate the area and the lifestyle Saban has chosen.
Visit Rabun County: If you want to see why he picked this spot, spend a weekend in Clayton, Georgia. It’s the closest town. It has incredible food, local shops, and that slow-burn mountain energy.
Check out the Marinas: You can rent a boat on Lake Burton. LaPrade’s Marina is a historic spot where you can get a feel for the water without the $10,000-a-month mortgage.
Respect the Privacy: If you do happen to spot the 18-foot "Saban" boat out on the water, keep your distance. The man earned his peace. A simple wave is plenty.
Study the Real Estate Market: If you're an investor, keep an eye on the surrounding lakes like Lake Rabun or Lake Seed. They offer a similar vibe at a slightly lower (though still expensive) price point.
The Nick Saban house on Lake Burton is more than just a building. It’s the final chapter—or maybe a brand-new one—for a man who defined an era of American sports. It’s a place of reflection, family, and probably a very well-manicured lawn. In the end, even the toughest coach in the world needs a place to watch the sunset over the mountains. He found it. And honestly, he picked a winner.
For those looking to understand the real estate landscape of the Southeast, Saban’s move is a masterclass in selecting "Blue Chip" property. He didn't go for the trendiest new beach town. He went for the timeless, secluded beauty of the Georgia mountains. That’s a championship-level decision if I’ve ever seen one.