As Chattanooga, TN is recognized around the U.S. as a top spot to live, many people unfamiliar with the city are wondering why Chattanooga has become so notable within the last decade.
To begin, we’ll let you in on a little secret: Chattanooga is growing at exponential rates.
According to the Chattanooga Times Press, Chattanooga’s growth rate from 2010-2018 (at 5.96%) surpassed the U.S. growth rate. Between 2010-2019, Chattanooga’s populations grew 7.3%.
Biasedly, this growth is all for good reason. Chattanooga and its surrounding areas offer residents a high quality of life coupled with a low cost of living and a variety of housing options to meet every need. Relocate America called Chattanooga one of the best places to live while U.S. News & World Report, CNN Money, and Where to Retire magazine all named Chattanooga a top retirement town. The New York Times called Chattanooga the “undiscovered gem of the South,” and listed it as one of 45 top places to visit.
Assisted by no state income tax and lower costs for housing, the cost of living in Chattanooga is 3 percent lower than the national average. The median home sales price in Chattanooga is $280,838, which is 25 percent less than the national median home price of $374,900. Mortgage rates are competitive with those offered around the Southeast and the U.S. In 2013, CNBC ranked Tennessee No. 2 in cost of living on a list of America’s top states for business.
In addition to the benefits of the housing market in the city, Chattanooga’s family-friendly atmosphere and sense of community provide a high quality of life for residents. The Tennessee Aquarium, the Creative Discovery Museum, a walkable riverfront, and rentable bicycles contribute to a fun and bustling downtown.
Communities all around Chattanooga offer beautiful views and many green spaces. Hamilton County boasts 4,500 acres of public parks and nearly 40,000 acres of national and state parks. Area parks offer playgrounds, ball fields, and open space for recreation, much of which is connected by almost 30 miles of walking and biking paths, including the 10-mile Tennessee RiverPark.
Chattanooga also offers residents a wonderful variety of nationally known and locally popular restaurants, shops, and attractions. Many of these amenities can be accessed in an eco-friendly manner by walking, using downtown’s free electric shuttle service, or by renting a bicycle from the new bicycle transit system.
Garden and Gun magazine called Chattanooga a “model of urban renewal,” saying the city “never misses a chance to reinvent itself.”
Overall, the city of Chattanooga’s stunning mountainous views, unique local restaurants and activities, and valuable real estate makes the city a remarkable place to live. Not to mention, it’s only getting bigger and better every day.
If you are interested in making the big (and best) move to the Greater Chattanooga Area, contact our team today! The Elizabeth Moyer Team consists of a mix of Chattanooga locals and new-to-the-city-ers that are here to help you with all of your home buying and selling needs!