$100k a year, no longer in Washington
changea dispatch from
chattanooga
TN
35.05°N
85.31°W
Chattanooga became the first city in the country to roll out gigabit fiber internet to every home (2010, via the municipal utility), which jump-started a tech and remote-work scene. Lookout Mountain rises right above town, with Ruby Falls' underground waterfall and Rock City's epic views. The Tennessee Riverwalk is gorgeous. The Choo Choo (old terminal turned hotel) is a fun stay.
the verdict
under Washington, every month
In Chattanooga, rent stops being the headline. The cost gap shows up every month without you trying.
a quick ledger.
$1,524/mo
35% cheaper than Washington(vs $2,352/mo)
0%
$708/mo less in state tax than Washington
vs 8.5% in Washington
$6,809/mo
$1,536 more than Washington
gross of federal tax. a comparison, not a paycheck.
$322k
49% cheaper than Washington
vs $626k in Washington
580k
vs 6.3M in Washington
field notes, weather & such.
167
pleasant days a year, in chattanooga.
Washington actually gets more: 177 pleasant days a year.
86% fewer events than Washington. The pace eases up.
69/100
21% lower than Washington
vs 87/100 in Washington
Closest outdoor draw: Cumberland Trail, 12.2 mi.
82/100
16% lower than Washington
vs 98/100 in Washington
8
95% fewer than Washington
vs 160 nonstops in Washington
if chattanooga appeals, also worth a look:
