What is the average salary in Chattanooga, TN?
Chattanooga, TN, offers a range of salary opportunities for job seekers. The average yearly salary stands at $56,656, making it a competitive market. The salaries vary across different industries, offering a mix of opportunities.
Many industries provide good earning potential. The highest earners make around $179,000, while the entry-level positions start at about $22,700. Most positions sit in the middle, with salaries ranging between $36,916 and $136,427. This range reflects the diverse job market and the potential for growth and advancement.
What are the best paying jobs in Chattanooga, TN?

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Physician
Average Salary: $299,899
Doctors in Chattanooga work in a variety of settings, from private practices to large hospitals. The city's healthcare needs offer good opportunities for those with the right qualifications. Well-known institutions like Erlanger Health System provide a chance to make a difference.
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General Dentist
Average Salary: $269,853
Dentists serve a crucial role in maintaining oral health. Chattanooga's residents rely on dental professionals for regular check-ups and treatments. Clinics like Chattanooga Dental offer a chance to build lasting relationships with patients.
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Paramedic
Average Salary: $126,920
Paramedics provide critical care during emergencies. Chattanooga's EMS services need dedicated individuals ready to respond quickly. Working for the Chattanooga Fire Department means joining a team that values quick thinking and compassion.
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Pharmacist
Average Salary: $126,404
Pharmacists ensure that medications are safe and effective. Chattanooga's pharmacies, such as CVS and Walgreens, rely on pharmacists to advise patients. It’s a role that combines science and customer service.
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Nurse Practitioner
Average Salary: $126,129
Nurse Practitioners deliver advanced care and often serve as primary care providers. Chattanooga’s healthcare facilities need these skilled professionals. Working with Erlanger and other clinics means you can make a real impact on patient health.
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Mechanical Engineer
Average Salary: $120,828
Mechanical Engineers design and develop machines and systems. Chattanooga's manufacturing sector relies on their expertise. Companies like UTC Aerospace Systems offer opportunities to innovate and improve technology.
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Software Engineer
Average Salary: $105,102
Software Engineers create and maintain software applications. Chattanooga's tech industry is growing, with firms like Synechron looking for talent. It’s a field that combines creativity and problem-solving.
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Electrical Engineer
Average Salary: $103,252
Electrical Engineers design electrical systems and equipment. Chattanooga’s manufacturing and technology sectors need these professionals. Working with companies like Siemens means contributing to cutting-edge projects.
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Outside Sales Representative
Average Salary: $99,566
Sales Representatives connect businesses with their products. Chattanooga’s diverse economy offers many opportunities. Selling for companies like Mohawk Industries means understanding customer needs and closing deals.
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Construction Manager
Average Salary: $97,645
Construction Managers oversee building projects. Chattanooga’s growth needs skilled managers. Working with firms like AGC of Chattanooga means ensuring projects are completed on time and budget.
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What are the best paying jobs in Chattanooga, TN without a degree?

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Sales Inspector
Average Salary: $85,758
These professionals inspect and evaluate sales operations. They work for companies like Chattanooga Energy Partners. Their work involves assessing the efficiency of sales processes.
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Float Operator
Average Salary: $73,260
They operate heavy machinery to spread materials evenly. Working in Chattanooga, these operators serve companies such as Cohley's Food Store. This work ensures quality and consistency.
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Floating Operator
Average Salary: $69,823
These operators control equipment that floats across surfaces to clean or apply materials. They work in Chattanooga for companies like The Chattanooga Bakery. This role requires attention to detail and precision.
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Irrigation Technician
Average Salary: $52,388
They set up and maintain irrigation systems for lawns and landscapes. Working for businesses like The Chattanooga Zoo, these technicians ensure proper water distribution. This job is essential for maintaining greenery.
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Arborist Climber
Average Salary: $49,508
They climb trees to prune, remove, or inspect them. This job is vital for companies like the City of Chattanooga Parks and Recreation. Arborists help maintain urban tree health and safety.
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Loader
Average Salary: $46,839
Loaders handle the loading and unloading of goods. They work for companies like Chattanooga Logistics. This role requires physical strength and the ability to work in various environments.
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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $45,842
They oversee daily operations in restaurants. These managers work for local eateries like The Southern Café. This role involves coordinating staff and ensuring customer satisfaction.
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Concrete Finisher
Average Salary: $45,787
They prepare and finish concrete surfaces. Working for firms like The Chattanooga Builders, these finishers ensure the quality and durability of concrete projects. Attention to detail is key.
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Kitchen Manager
Average Salary: $45,464
Kitchen managers supervise kitchen staff and operations. They work for restaurants like The Original Pancake House. This role requires strong organizational skills and culinary knowledge.
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Canvasser
Average Salary: $42,225
They collect information from the public on surveys or opinions. Working for polling companies like SurveyMonkey, canvassers engage with the community to gather data. This job involves strong communication skills.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Chattanooga, TN?

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The Cigna Group
Average Salary: $130,777
The Cigna Group is a global health service company. It offers health insurance, pharmacy care, and other medical services.
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Leaf Home
Average Salary: $114,693
Leaf Home focuses on home medical equipment and services. They provide respiratory equipment, oxygen therapy, and sleep apnea solutions.
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Sargent & Lundy
Average Salary: $112,771
Sargent & Lundy is an engineering and design firm. It specializes in power plant engineering and energy solutions.
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Unum
Average Salary: $111,450
Unum offers insurance and financial protection services. They help people manage risks related to health, life, and disability.
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MENTAL HEALTH
Average Salary: $86,879
This company provides mental health services. It focuses on therapy, counseling, and support for individuals.
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CommonSpirit Health
Average Salary: $86,490
CommonSpirit Health runs hospitals and care centers. They aim to provide high-quality healthcare services.
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Amazon.com
Average Salary: $82,426
Amazon is a global e-commerce giant. It offers a wide range of products and services online.
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Southern Industries
Average Salary: $81,542
Southern Industries is a manufacturer. It makes industrial parts and products.
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Amedisys
Average Salary: $81,426
Amedisys provides home health and hospice care. They offer medical services in patients' homes.
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BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee
Average Salary: $72,129
BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee offers health insurance. They help people manage their healthcare needs.
How does the cost of living in Chattanooga, TN compare to the national average?

Chattanooga, Tennessee, boasts a cost of living index that offers significant savings compared to the nationwide average, which is set at 100. According to recent data, Chattanooga's cost of living index stands at 89, making it a very attractive option for budget-conscious individuals. This means that, on average, living expenses in Chattanooga are about 11% lower than the national average. The housing index, at 83, shows that residents can expect to pay nearly 17% less for housing compared to the average American city.
The lower cost of living in Chattanooga extends beyond housing. For example, groceries are priced at 97, meaning they are slightly above the national average but still only 3% more expensive. Utilities and transportation also cost less, with indexes of 95 and 92, respectively. Healthcare, although not the cheapest, is still affordable with an index of 90. Miscellaneous expenses, at 88, indicate savings of about 12% in this category. Overall, Chattanooga provides a well-rounded, more affordable lifestyle compared to the national average.



