Census data in Chattanooga, TN

IMG_8036_970x

Whether you’ve lived here your whole life or you’re new to the city — Chattanooga has changed a lot in the last 10 years. Allow us to reintroduce the Scenic City.

Previous Census data showed that, from 2010 to 2020, Chattanooga’s population increased by approximately 8%, and the Scenic City only continues to grow.

The most recent data released shows that in 2021, Hamilton County experienced an increase in population of about 0.8%, which is 2,928 people (or ~1,000 more people than the Tivoli Theatre can hold).

The data also revealed that Chattanooga has a median home value of $174,900.

Median home listing prices across the Greater Chattanooga area:

Where are the renters? In Tennessee, 33.5% of the total occupied housing units are rented + the median rent costs are $897. Here’s what the majority of Tennessee renters are paying:

  • 96,330 pay less than $500
  • 396,598 pay $500-$999
  • 230,605 pay $1,000-$1,499
  • 67,185 pay $1,500-$1,999
  • 16,571 pay $2,000-$2,499
  • 4,497 pay $2,500-$2,999
  • 4,840 pay $3,000+

So, can you afford to live here? Hamilton County’s median household income projection, comparing 2015 to 2020, increased from $48,000 to $57,000, or +17.3%. Nearby:

  • Marion County increased from $41,000 to $50,000, or +21.1%
  • Bradley County increased from $42,000 to $52,000, or +23.2%.

This data comes as Mayor Kelly recently announced a $100 million affordable housing initiative for the next five years that aims to create + preserve affordable homes for residents. The initiative will encompass supportive, low-income, and workforce housing up to 120% area median income. Stay updated or get involved here.

More from NOOGAtoday
From outdoor adventures to local eats and attractions, the Scenic City scored big in 2025.
Whether you’re doing Dry January or just skipping the booze, these local spots have you covered.
Work begins on Phase 1 of the 2.6-mile Alton Park Connector.
From lifting weights, indoor rock climbing, personal training, dance fitness, boxing classes, and martial arts programs — we’ve rounded up 25+ gyms and fitness offerings around Chattanooga.
We compiled all of the feedback from our Giving Campaign to learn what readers love most and want to see more of in our newsletters. Here’s a peek at what they said.
Here’s what they’re hoping to accomplish in 2026.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
The new route that would link Chattanooga to three major cities in the region.
Bob Dylan? Check. Cheap Trick? Check. It’s not a bad idea to triple-check this list and get your concert tickets before they sell out.
Here’s how we braved — and enjoyed — winter weather in the 1900s.