Chattanooga, TN vs Elgin, IL: 81 vs 90

$1,155/mo ↓ 8%

Median Rent

$1,260/mo ↑ 9%

$61,028/yr ↓ 31%

Median Income

$88,316/yr ↑ 45%

$259,200 ↑ 3%

Home Value

$252,400 ↓ 3%

$1,112/mo ↓ 26%

Owner Costs

$1,502/mo ↑ 35%

182,832

Population

114,106

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chattanooga, TN and Elgin, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 81 and 90 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $105/month cheaper in Chattanooga, saving renters about $1,260/year.

Median household income is $27,288/year higher in Elgin. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chattanooga is $259,200 compared to $252,400 in Elgin.

Tennessee has no state income tax, giving Chattanooga residents a significant tax advantage over Illinois's 4.95% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Chattanooga vs Elgin — common questions

Is Chattanooga or Elgin cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Chattanooga is cheaper to live in with an index of 81 compared to 90 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Chattanooga and Elgin?

Median rent in Chattanooga is $1,155/month and in Elgin it's $1,260/month — a difference of $105/month.

Which city has higher income, Chattanooga or Elgin?

Median household income is $61,028 in Chattanooga and $88,316 in Elgin. Median household income is $27,288/year higher in Elgin.

How do taxes compare between Tennessee and Illinois?

Tennessee has 0% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 0.64% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.

Should I move to Chattanooga or Elgin?

It depends on your priorities. Chattanooga has a cost index of 81 with median rent of $1,155/mo, while Elgin has a cost index of 90 with rent of $1,260/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Chattanooga, TN vs Elgin, IL (2026)

Chattanooga

Elgin

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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