Is Chattanooga or Phoenix more affordable?
Chattanooga has a median rent of $1,100/month, while Phoenix is $1,650/month. Chattanooga is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Chattanooga, TN vs Phoenix, AZ
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Chattanooga and Phoenix.
3
Chattanooga wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Phoenix wins
TN
Chattanooga
vs
AZ
Phoenix
Overview
181,099
Population
1,608,139
$52,000
Median Income
+19.2%$62,000✓
Cost of Living
$1,100✓
Median Rent / mo
+50.0%$1,650
$280,000✓
Median Home Price
+50.0%$420,000
25%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
None✓
State Income Tax
2.50%
9.25%
Local Tax Rate
8.60%
Climate & Weather
68°F
Avg High Temp
86°F
48°F
Avg Low Temp
63°F
215 days
Sunny Days / Year
299 days✓
54"
Annual Rainfall
8"
Who should choose
Chattanooga, TN
Chattanooga is a city in Tennessee with a population of 181,099.
Read full Chattanooga guide →Who should choose
Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix is a city in Arizona with a population of 1,608,139.
Read full Phoenix guide →Chattanooga vs Phoenix — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Chattanooga or Phoenix?
Tennessee has no state income tax. Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. Chattanooga wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Chattanooga and Phoenix?
Chattanooga gets 215 sunny days/year. Phoenix gets 299 sunny days/year. Avg high in Chattanooga: 68°F. Avg high in Phoenix: 86°F
Which city is better for families — Chattanooga or Phoenix?
Chattanooga. Phoenix. 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.