Chattanooga, TN vs Downey, CA: 81 vs 169

$1,155/mo ↓ 39%

Median Rent

$1,892/mo ↑ 64%

$61,028/yr ↓ 30%

Median Income

$87,400/yr ↑ 43%

$259,200 ↓ 64%

Home Value

$728,500 ↑ 181%

$1,112/mo ↓ 44%

Owner Costs

$1,997/mo ↑ 80%

182,832

Population

111,793

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chattanooga, TN and Downey, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 81 and 169 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $737/month cheaper in Chattanooga, saving renters about $8,844/year.

Median household income is $26,372/year higher in Downey. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chattanooga is $259,200 compared to $728,500 in Downey.

Tennessee has no state income tax, giving Chattanooga residents a significant tax advantage over California's 13.3% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Chattanooga vs Downey — common questions

Is Chattanooga or Downey cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Chattanooga is cheaper to live in with an index of 81 compared to 169 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Chattanooga and Downey?

Median rent in Chattanooga is $1,155/month and in Downey it's $1,892/month — a difference of $737/month.

Which city has higher income, Chattanooga or Downey?

Median household income is $61,028 in Chattanooga and $87,400 in Downey. Median household income is $26,372/year higher in Downey.

How do taxes compare between Tennessee and California?

Tennessee has 0% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 0.64% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Chattanooga or Downey?

It depends on your priorities. Chattanooga has a cost index of 81 with median rent of $1,155/mo, while Downey has a cost index of 169 with rent of $1,892/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Chattanooga, TN vs Downey, CA (2026)

Chattanooga

Downey

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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