Moving from Fayetteville to Chattanooga (2026)

Chattanooga has a COL index of 86 vs 86 for Fayetteville (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 0% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$325 more/mo
on rent + taxes ยท $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
86 โ†’ 86
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,300 โ†’ $1,250
per month
State tax
4.4% โ†’ None
income tax
COL difference
86 โ†’ 86
0% more expensive

Salary needed in Chattanooga to match your Fayetteville lifestyle

Based on the 0% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in FayettevilleEquivalent in Chattanooga
$40K$40,000
$50K$50,000
$60K$60,000
$75K$75,000
$80K$80,000
$100K$100,000
$120K$120,000
$150K$150,000

๐Ÿ’ต Household income (before tax)

$75K
$
$30K$300K
Save ~$50/moon core expenses at $75K

Monthly budget at $75K โ€” Fayetteville vs Chattanooga

ExpenseFayettevilleChattanooga
Monthly take-home$4,466$4,741
1BR rent$1,300$1,250
Groceries$361$357
Transport$42$45
Utilities$162$165
Internet$60$58
Left after essentials$2,541$2,866

Frequently asked questions

Is Chattanooga cheaper than Fayetteville?

No. Chattanooga has a cost of living index of 86 vs 86 for Fayetteville (100 = US average). That's about 0% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Fayetteville to Chattanooga?

On a $75K salary, moving from Fayetteville to Chattanooga saves roughly $325/month on core expenses. That's ~$3,900/year.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Fayetteville, you'd need roughly $75,000/year in Chattanooga. This is based on the overall COL index difference.

Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates. Zillow ยท BLS ยท Numbeo ยท For general guidance only