Phoenix, AZ vs Chattanooga, TN: 109 vs 81

$1,458/mo ↑ 26%

Median Rent

$1,155/mo ↓ 21%

$77,041/yr ↑ 26%

Median Income

$61,028/yr ↓ 21%

$381,900 ↑ 47%

Home Value

$259,200 ↓ 32%

$1,430/mo ↑ 29%

Owner Costs

$1,112/mo ↓ 22%

1,624,832

Population

182,832

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Phoenix, AZ and Chattanooga, TN, the overall cost of living indices are 109 and 81 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $303/month cheaper in Chattanooga, saving renters about $3,636/year.

Median household income is $16,013/year higher in Phoenix. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Phoenix is $381,900 compared to $259,200 in Chattanooga.

Tennessee has no state income tax, giving Chattanooga residents a significant tax advantage over Arizona's 2.5% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Phoenix vs Chattanooga — common questions

Is Phoenix or Chattanooga cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Chattanooga is cheaper to live in with an index of 81 compared to 109 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Phoenix and Chattanooga?

Median rent in Phoenix is $1,458/month and in Chattanooga it's $1,155/month — a difference of $303/month.

Which city has higher income, Phoenix or Chattanooga?

Median household income is $77,041 in Phoenix and $61,028 in Chattanooga. Median household income is $16,013/year higher in Phoenix.

How do taxes compare between Arizona and Tennessee?

Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. Tennessee has 0% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 0.64% property tax.

Should I move to Phoenix or Chattanooga?

It depends on your priorities. Phoenix has a cost index of 109 with median rent of $1,458/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: Phoenix, AZ vs Chattanooga, TN (2026)

Phoenix

Chattanooga

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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