Chattanooga, TN vs Salem, OR: 81 vs 105

$1,155/mo ↓ 13%

Median Rent

$1,323/mo ↑ 15%

$61,028/yr ↓ 15%

Median Income

$71,900/yr ↑ 18%

$259,200 ↓ 32%

Home Value

$382,400 ↑ 48%

$1,112/mo ↓ 23%

Owner Costs

$1,440/mo ↑ 29%

182,832

Population

176,666

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chattanooga, TN and Salem, OR, the overall cost of living indices are 81 and 105 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $168/month cheaper in Chattanooga, saving renters about $2,016/year.

Median household income is $10,872/year higher in Salem. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chattanooga is $259,200 compared to $382,400 in Salem.

Tennessee has no state income tax, giving Chattanooga residents a significant tax advantage over Oregon's 9.9% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Chattanooga vs Salem — common questions

Is Chattanooga or Salem cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Chattanooga is cheaper to live in with an index of 81 compared to 105 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Chattanooga and Salem?

Median rent in Chattanooga is $1,155/month and in Salem it's $1,323/month — a difference of $168/month.

Which city has higher income, Chattanooga or Salem?

Median household income is $61,028 in Chattanooga and $71,900 in Salem. Median household income is $10,872/year higher in Salem.

How do taxes compare between Tennessee and Oregon?

Tennessee has 0% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 0.64% property tax. Oregon has 9.9% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.

Should I move to Chattanooga or Salem?

It depends on your priorities. Chattanooga has a cost index of 81 with median rent of $1,155/mo, while Salem has a cost index of 105 with rent of $1,323/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Chattanooga, TN vs Salem, OR (2026)

Chattanooga

Salem

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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