Moving from Chattanooga to Louisville (2026)

Louisville has a COL index of 88 vs 86 for Chattanooga (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 2% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$68 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
8688
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,250$1,300
per month
State tax
None4%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,741$4,491
per month

Salary needed in Louisville to match your Chattanooga lifestyle

Based on the 2% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in ChattanoogaEquivalent in Louisville
$40K$40,930
$50K$51,163
$60K$61,395
$75K$76,744
$80K$81,860
$100K$102,326
$120K$122,791
$150K$153,488

Monthly budget at $75K — Chattanooga vs Louisville

ExpenseChattanoogaLouisville
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,491
1BR rent$1,250$1,300
Groceries$357$361
Transport$45$60
Utilities$165$162
Internet$58$60
Left after essentials$2,866$2,548

Frequently asked questions

Is Louisville cheaper than Chattanooga?

No. Louisville has a cost of living index of 88 vs 86 for Chattanooga (100 = US average). That's about 2% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Chattanooga to Louisville?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Louisville run about $68/month more than Chattanooga. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in Louisville to match my Chattanooga lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Chattanooga, you'd need roughly $76,744/year in Louisville. 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