Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
21% cheaper
Chattanooga is 21% more affordable than Modesto. A $75,000 salary in Modesto is equivalent to $59,598 in Chattanooga.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Tennessee salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Chattanooga has a housing index of 76 while Modesto sits at 121 (national average = 100). The median home in Chattanooga costs $255,000 compared to $380,000 in Modesto, a difference of $125,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,200 in Chattanooga versus $1,400 in Modesto.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Chattanooga scores 94 while Modesto scores 100.
Healthcare costs in Chattanooga (92) are lower than Modesto (100).
Median household income in Chattanooga is $46,054 compared to $55,138 in Modesto. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Chattanooga.
Amazon affiliate links