Is Chattanooga or Raleigh more affordable?
Chattanooga has a median rent of $1,100/month, while Raleigh is $1,450/month. Chattanooga is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Chattanooga, TN vs Raleigh, NC
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Chattanooga and Raleigh.
4
Chattanooga wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Raleigh wins
TN
Chattanooga
vs
NC
Raleigh
Overview
181,099
Population
467,665
$52,000
Median Income
+39.6%$72,571✓
Cost of Living
$1,100✓
Median Rent / mo
+31.8%$1,450
$280,000✓
Median Home Price
+42.9%$400,000
25%
Rent-to-Income %
24%
Taxes
None✓
State Income Tax
4.75%
9.25%
Local Tax Rate
7.25%
Climate & Weather
68°F
Avg High Temp
71°F
48°F
Avg Low Temp
50°F
215 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
213 days
54"
Annual Rainfall
46"
Who should choose
Chattanooga, TN
Chattanooga is a city in Tennessee with a population of 181,099.
Read full Chattanooga guide →Who should choose
Raleigh, NC
Raleigh is a city in North Carolina with a population of 467,665.
Read full Raleigh guide →Chattanooga vs Raleigh — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Chattanooga or Raleigh?
Tennessee has no state income tax. North Carolina has a 4.75% state income tax. Chattanooga wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Chattanooga and Raleigh?
Chattanooga gets 215 sunny days/year. Raleigh gets 213 sunny days/year. Avg high in Chattanooga: 68°F. Avg high in Raleigh: 71°F
Which city is better for families — Chattanooga or Raleigh?
Chattanooga. Raleigh. 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.