About the sameBased on official 2024 price levels from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis.
I need in Columbus to live the same way.
🏠 Rent per month
$1,537
$1,314
🛏️ 2-bedroom rent
$1,305
$1,116
💵 Families earn per year
$69,588
$62,632
🔑 Buying a house
$283,200
$193,900
📊 Overall prices (U.S. = 100)
91.5
89.3
🏛️ Property tax per year
$2,265
$1,660
⚡ Electric bill per month
$139
$173
👥 People living there
185,783
203,711
Commute to work
18.5 min
20.9 min
College degree
36%
30.5%
Own their home
52.4%
50.8%
Below poverty line
19.1%
19%
Unemployment
5.4%
6.3%
Bottom line
- Pick Chattanooga for higher incomes, shorter commutes, a more educated workforce and 1 more.
- Pick Columbus for lower rent, cheaper 2-bedroom apartments, cheaper homes and 1 more.
Pay for the same job
| Job | Chattanooga | Columbus | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrician | $72,330 | $50,730 | -30% in Columbus |
| Lawyer | $147,640 | $104,120 | -29% in Columbus |
| Operations Manager | $102,920 | $82,330 | -20% in Columbus |
| Plumber | $58,720 | $47,410 | -19% in Columbus |
| Civil Engineer | $95,630 | $77,600 | -19% in Columbus |
| Truck Driver | $57,440 | $47,570 | -17% in Columbus |
| Customer Service Representative | $45,030 | $37,330 | -17% in Columbus |
| Restaurant Cook | $36,010 | $30,470 | -15% in Columbus |
Frequently asked questions
Is Chattanooga or Columbus cheaper to live in?
Chattanooga and Columbus cost about the same once rent and everyday costs are combined.
What salary do I need in Columbus to match $60,000 in Chattanooga?
About $58,578 a year gives the same standard of living in Columbus.
Where do people earn more, Chattanooga or Columbus?
The typical household earns $69,588 in Chattanooga and $62,632 in Columbus, 11% more in Chattanooga.