($1,701) Movers From Seattle, WA to Chattanooga, TN

What to know before moving from Seattle to Chattanooga

Moving from Seattle to Chattanooga means adjusting to a different pace of life — and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Seattle than in Chattanooga, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how Seattle compares to Chattanooga so you know what to expect before you relocate:

• Rent prices in Chattanooga are 25% lower than in Seattle, which means you’ll have more money in your pocket each month.
• In terms of homeownership, you’ll be able to get more for your money in Chattanooga.
  Home prices in Chattanooga are 64.1% lower than in Seattle.
• Income in Chattanooga is 22.7% lower than in Seattle, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Chattanooga include Hamilton County, Schools Erlanger, and Health System.
• The cost of living for a single person in Chattanooga is 11.8% lower than in Seattle. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
• The cost of living for a family in Chattanooga is 55.6% lower than in Seattle.
• The unemployment rate in Chattanooga is 16.67% higher than in Seattle.
• You’ll spend less on retail and restaurants in Chattanooga, since the city’s sales taxes in Chattanooga are 10.63% lower than in Seattle.
• State income taxes are the same in Chattanooga and Seattle.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,647.06 in Chattanooga to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Seattle.

How life is different in Seattle vs. Chattanooga

• Chattanooga's population is about 75% less than Seattle.
• Chattanooga's public transportation has a score of 3 out of 10 versus Seattle's higher score of 8.
• Chattanooga is less walkable than Seattle with a score of 29 out of 100 vs Seattle's 74 out of 100.
• Chattanooga has a bike-friendliness score 35 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Seattle, which has a score of 71 out of 100.
• Chattanooga's crime rate is lower than Seattle with a score of 53.89 compared to Seattle's 58.88. This means that Chattanooga neighborhoods are safer than 53.89% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Seattle neighborhoods are safer than 58.88%.
• Chattanooga and Seattle are considered to be equally safe.
• Air quality in Chattanooga is good, and in Seattle it's good.

Other things to consider for your Seattle vs. Chattanooga move

• Weather: May, September and October are the most suitable months for moving in Chattanooga, while you might reconsider your plans in January and July as these are the least comfortable months.
• HOA rules: It’s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
• Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, it’s a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
• Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
• 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: To confirm a moving company’s license in Tennessee, visit the state's public utilities commission
• Moving permits: While Tennessee doesn’t mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
• Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Chattanooga without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
• Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. 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.

Where to live in Chattanooga

With your sights set on "Scenic City", these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Chattanooga.

Helpful moving resources