Moving from Medellín to Chattanooga (2026)

Chattanooga has a COL index of 86 vs 35 for Medellín (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 146% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$750 more/mo
on rent + taxes · $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
3586
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$500$1,250
per month
State tax
NoneNone
income tax
COL difference
3586
146% more expensive

Salary needed in Chattanooga to match your Medellín lifestyle

Based on the 146% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in MedellínEquivalent in Chattanooga
$40K$98,286
$50K$122,857
$60K$147,429
$75K$184,286
$80K$196,571
$100K$245,714
$120K$294,857
$150K$368,571

Adjust your salary

Pay ~$760/mo moreon core expenses at $75K

Monthly budget at $75KMedellín vs Chattanooga

ExpenseMedellínChattanooga
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,741
1BR rent$500$1,250
Groceries$380$357
Transport$150$45
Utilities$55$165
Internet$30$58
Left after essentials$3,626$2,866

Frequently asked questions

Is Chattanooga cheaper than Medellín?

No. Chattanooga has a cost of living index of 86 vs 35 for Medellín (100 = US average). That's about 146% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Medellín to Chattanooga?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Chattanooga run about $750/month more than Medellín. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Medellín, you'd need roughly $184,286/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 · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only