Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
44% cheaper
Chattanooga is 44% more affordable than San Diego. A $75,000 salary in San Diego is equivalent to $41,719 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 San Diego sits at 248 (national average = 100). The median home in Chattanooga costs $255,000 compared to $800,000 in San Diego, a difference of $545,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,200 in Chattanooga versus $2,500 in San Diego.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Chattanooga scores 94 while San Diego scores 107.
Healthcare costs in Chattanooga (92) are lower than San Diego (107).
Median household income in Chattanooga is $46,054 compared to $79,646 in San Diego. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Chattanooga.
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