Moving from Lexington to Chattanooga (2026)
Chattanooga has a COL index of 86 vs 89 for Lexington (100 = US average). You'd pay about 3% less for the same lifestyle.
Key differences
Salary needed in Chattanooga to match your Lexington lifestyle
Based on the 3% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Lexington | Equivalent in Chattanooga |
|---|---|
| $40K | $38,652 |
| $50K | $48,315 |
| $60K | $57,978 |
| $75K | $72,472 |
| $80K | $77,303 |
| $100K | $96,629 |
| $120K | $115,955 |
| $150K | $144,944 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Lexington vs Chattanooga
| Expense | Lexington | Chattanooga |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,491 | $4,741 |
| 1BR rent | $1,350 | $1,250 |
| Groceries | $365 | $357 |
| Transport | $60 | $45 |
| Utilities | $158 | $165 |
| Internet | $60 | $58 |
| Left after essentials | $2,498 | $2,866 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Chattanooga cheaper than Lexington?
Yes. Chattanooga has a cost of living index of 86 vs 89 for Lexington (100 = US average). That's about 3% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Lexington to Chattanooga?
On a $75K salary, moving from Lexington to Chattanooga could save roughly $118/month on core expenses. That's ~$1,416/year.
What salary do I need in Chattanooga to match my Lexington lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Lexington, you'd need roughly $72,472/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