Norfolk, VA vs Chattanooga, TN: 89 vs 81

$1,246/mo ↑ 8%

Median Rent

$1,155/mo ↓ 7%

$64,017/yr ↑ 5%

Median Income

$61,028/yr ↓ 5%

$271,900 ↑ 5%

Home Value

$259,200 ↓ 5%

$1,366/mo ↑ 23%

Owner Costs

$1,112/mo ↓ 19%

235,037

Population

182,832

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Norfolk, VA and Chattanooga, TN, the overall cost of living indices are 89 and 81 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $91/month cheaper in Chattanooga, saving renters about $1,092/year.

Median household income is $2,989/year higher in Norfolk. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Norfolk is $271,900 compared to $259,200 in Chattanooga.

Tennessee has no state income tax, giving Chattanooga residents a significant tax advantage over Virginia's 5.75% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Norfolk vs Chattanooga — common questions

Is Norfolk or Chattanooga cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Chattanooga is cheaper to live in with an index of 81 compared to 89 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Norfolk and Chattanooga?

Median rent in Norfolk is $1,246/month and in Chattanooga it's $1,155/month — a difference of $91/month.

Which city has higher income, Norfolk or Chattanooga?

Median household income is $64,017 in Norfolk and $61,028 in Chattanooga. Median household income is $2,989/year higher in Norfolk.

How do taxes compare between Virginia and Tennessee?

Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Tennessee has 0% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 0.64% property tax.

Should I move to Norfolk or Chattanooga?

It depends on your priorities. Norfolk has a cost index of 89 with median rent of $1,246/mo, while Chattanooga has a cost index of 81 with rent of $1,155/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Norfolk, VA vs Chattanooga, TN (2026)

Norfolk

Chattanooga

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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