Moving from Charleston to Chattanooga (2026)
Chattanooga has a COL index of 86 vs 97 for Charleston (100 = US average). You'd pay about 11% less for the same lifestyle.
Key differences
Salary needed in Chattanooga to match your Charleston lifestyle
Based on the 11% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Charleston | Equivalent in Chattanooga |
|---|---|
| $40K | $35,464 |
| $50K | $44,330 |
| $60K | $53,196 |
| $75K | $66,495 |
| $80K | $70,928 |
| $100K | $88,660 |
| $120K | $106,392 |
| $150K | $132,990 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Charleston vs Chattanooga
| Expense | Charleston | Chattanooga |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,353 | $4,741 |
| 1BR rent | $1,900 | $1,250 |
| Groceries | $376 | $357 |
| Transport | $55 | $45 |
| Utilities | $162 | $165 |
| Internet | $63 | $58 |
| Left after essentials | $1,797 | $2,866 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Chattanooga cheaper than Charleston?
Yes. Chattanooga has a cost of living index of 86 vs 97 for Charleston (100 = US average). That's about 11% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Charleston to Chattanooga?
On a $75K salary, moving from Charleston to Chattanooga could save roughly $681/month on core expenses. That's ~$8,172/year.
What salary do I need in Chattanooga to match my Charleston lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Charleston, you'd need roughly $66,495/year in Chattanooga. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates at $75K. Zillow · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only