Is Chattanooga or Chicago more affordable?
Chattanooga has a median rent of $1,100/month, while Chicago is $1,209/month. Chattanooga is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Chattanooga, TN vs Chicago, IL
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Chattanooga and Chicago.
3
Chattanooga wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Chicago wins
TN
Chattanooga
vs
IL
Chicago
Overview
181,099
Population
2,742,119
$52,000
Median Income
+26.5%$65,781✓
Cost of Living
$1,100✓
Median Rent / mo
+9.9%$1,209
$280,000
Median Home Price
-0.9%$277,600✓
25%
Rent-to-Income %
22%
Taxes
None✓
State Income Tax
4.95%
9.25%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
68°F
Avg High Temp
54.12°F
48°F
Avg Low Temp
49.03°F
215 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
54"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Chattanooga, TN
Chattanooga is a city in Tennessee with a population of 181,099.
Read full Chattanooga guide →Who should choose
Chicago, IL
Chicago is a city in Illinois with a population of 2,742,119.
Read full Chicago guide →Chattanooga vs Chicago — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Chattanooga or Chicago?
Tennessee has no state income tax. Illinois has a 4.95% state income tax. Chattanooga wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Chattanooga and Chicago?
Chattanooga gets 215 sunny days/year. Avg high in Chattanooga: 68°F. Avg high in Chicago: 54.12°F
Which city is better for families — Chattanooga or Chicago?
Chattanooga. Chicago. The right choice depends on your priorities — income, affordability, taxes, and climate all play a role.
More city comparisons
Data sourced from U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and NOAA. Green values indicate a better outcome for that metric.