Chicago, IL to Chattanooga, TN Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)

• When relocating from Chicago to Chattanooga, expect to find rent about 28% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
• Home pricing is relatively consistent, with less than a 5% difference between Chattanooga and Chicago, making significant budget changes unnecessary unless you opt for a larger space.
• Reviewing your financial plan is wise before moving. The average income is nearly 16% lower in Chattanooga compared to Chicago.
• You'll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Chattanooga, as the cost of living for a single person is 10% lower compared to Chicago.
• A move to Chattanooga can help cut down on a family's routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 53% less than what it costs in Chicago.
• The unemployment rate in Chattanooga is about 38% lower than in Chicago. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
• Sales taxes are 10% less in Chattanooga relative to Chicago. This will help shrink your living expenses, especially if you tend to buy more taxable goods.
• Tennessee has no income tax, meaning you keep more of your gross income, which can be a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees with taxable income.

• Chattanooga's population is about 93% less than Chicago.
• Chattanooga's public transportation score of 3 out of 10 is lower than Chicago's score of 9.
• Chattanooga is less walkable than Chicago with a score of 29 out of 100 vs Chicago's 77 out of 100.
• Chattanooga has a bike-friendliness score of 35 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as Chicago, which has a score of 72.
• Chattanooga's crime rate is higher than Chicago with a score of 53.89 compared to Chicago's 35.19. This means that Chattanooga neighborhoods are safer than 53.89% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19%.
• Chattanooga is considered to be safer than Chicago with a safety index of 46.11 vs Chicago's 33.87.
• Air quality in Chattanooga is Good, and in Chicago it's Good.

• HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
• Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
• Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
• State licensing: Although a local license is not required in Tennessee, make sure the moving company you’ll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if you’re dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
• State regulator: Tennessee’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
• Moving Permits: Tennessee does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
• Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You'll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Chattanooga. Start the process here.
• Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. When it comes to movers' insurance in Tennessee, most moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra charge. This basic coverage extends to 60 cents per pound per item. For increased protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Additionally, exploring third-party insurance providers is a viable choice for tailored plans. Prioritize understanding coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Tennessee.
• Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Best neighborhoods for singles

• Southside
• Martin Luther King
• Fort Wood
• Lookout Mountain
• West Village

Best neighborhoods for families

• North Shore
• St. Elmo
• Lookout Mountain
• Highland Park
• Orchard Knob

Things to do in Chattanooga

After settling into your new Tennessee home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Chattanooga has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:

• Arts and culture: Chattanooga features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, Creative Discovery Museum, Coker Museum - Honest Charley, and Hunter Museum of American Art.
• Outdoor recreation: The city's Coolidge Park Tennessee, Riverpark Ross's Landing Park, Enterprise South Nature Park, and Chickamauga Dam — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
• Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Chattanooga Lookouts (Southern League)Chattanooga Red Wolves SC (USL League One) game.