Is Chattanooga or San Diego more affordable?
Chattanooga has a median rent of $1,100/month, while San Diego is $2,100/month. Chattanooga is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Chattanooga, TN vs San Diego, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Chattanooga and San Diego.
3
Chattanooga wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
San Diego wins
TN
Chattanooga
vs
CA
San Diego
Overview
181,099
Population
1,386,932
$52,000
Median Income
+53.2%$79,685✓
Cost of Living
$1,100✓
Median Rent / mo
+90.9%$2,100
$280,000✓
Median Home Price
+178.6%$780,000
25%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
None✓
State Income Tax
9.30%
9.25%
Local Tax Rate
7.75%
Climate & Weather
68°F
Avg High Temp
70°F
48°F
Avg Low Temp
55°F
215 days
Sunny Days / Year
266 days✓
54"
Annual Rainfall
12"
Who should choose
Chattanooga, TN
Chattanooga is a city in Tennessee with a population of 181,099.
Read full Chattanooga guide →Who should choose
San Diego, CA
San Diego is a city in California with a population of 1,386,932.
Read full San Diego guide →Chattanooga vs San Diego — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Chattanooga or San Diego?
Tennessee has no state income tax. California has a 9.30% state income tax. Chattanooga wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Chattanooga and San Diego?
Chattanooga gets 215 sunny days/year. San Diego gets 266 sunny days/year. Avg high in Chattanooga: 68°F. Avg high in San Diego: 70°F
Which city is better for families — Chattanooga or San Diego?
Chattanooga. San Diego. The right choice depends on your priorities — income, affordability, taxes, and climate all play a role.
More city comparisons
Data sourced from U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and NOAA. Green values indicate a better outcome for that metric.