Your Affordable Home and Moving Guide to Saving In Chattanooga

We help you prepare for your move to Chattanooga. We break down the most affordable neighborhoods to help you find your new home at a price you can afford.
12 Things To Know Before Moving To Chattanooga

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This article is here to help you get to know Chattanooga on a neighborhood level and save on the moving process. We give you insider tips and average home prices so you can consider what is best for your family. Book your move with Pricing Van Lines so you know that even getting there will be done via the most affordable option.

Chattanooga’s Best

Chattanooga, TN, often celebrated for its luxurious landscapes and welcoming culture, is becoming an increasingly popular destination for families that are looking to relocate.

Chattanooga has a booming housing market, and you need to know about it to save when moving. Whether you’re a professional moving for a work opportunity, a growing family, or a retiree looking for a new change of pace, this guide will help you find the best affordable housing options in Chattanooga.

Let’s get started and get on your way to your new TN home!

Understanding the Chattanooga Housing Market

Before diving into specific neighborhoods and choosing where to rent or buy your new home, it’s crucial to understand the overall housing market of Chattanooga. While prices have risen, the city still offers a variety of affordable options compared to national averages. You are still in TN and not NYC.

According to recent data, the average home price in Chattanooga is significantly lower than in many other cities, making it a great choice for first-time homebuyers and those looking for savings. We will break it down for you by area so you can make an educated decision about your new neighborhood:

1. East Brainerd: A Family-Friendly Gem

East Brainerd is a classic suburban neighborhood known for its excellent schools with great test scores and a great community atmosphere.

Homes to purchase in East Brainerd range from $250,000 to $350,000, making it affordable for families looking for more space and bigger rooms without breaking the bank.

Despite its many great options locally, East Brainerd often gets overshadowed by more well-known neighborhoods, making it an interesting option for those looking for value in a family-friendly setting.

  • Schools: This area is served by some of the best public schools in TN, making it ideal for families with children about to go up a grade.
  • Parks: With numerous parks and great playgrounds, East Brainerd offers plenty of outdoor spaces for kids to enjoy!

2. St. Elmo: Historic Memories with Modern Amenities

St. Elmo is a historic neighborhood located just south of downtown Chattanooga, known for its architecture and vibrant community spirit.

St. Elmo’s proximity to downtown work options and its historic feel make it an option that many overlook, especially for those seeking a blend of urban and suburban living at an affordable price.

Home prices in St. Elmo range from $200,000 to $300,000, making it one of the more affordable areas near the city center, a great idea for a place to start off in Chattanooga.

  • Historic Homes: The area is bustling with historic homes that add character and uniqueness when walking down the street.
  • Access to Mountains: St. Elmo is close to Lookout Mountain, offering perfect access to hiking trails and scenic views. Talk about a weekend trip idea!
  • Community: The neighborhood has a strong sense of community, with local events and gatherings which is great as a new neighbor looking for friends.

3. Chattanooga Valley: Take the Scenic Route

Located in between the mountains, Chattanooga Valley offers a picture perect setting with affordable housing options.

Home prices in Chattanooga Valley range from $150,000 to $250,000, making it one of the most affordable areas in the region.

Its affordability combined with natural surroundings, makes Chattanooga Valley an ideal option for those who want peace of mind and beauty near their home

  • Natural Beauty: Enjoy those breathtaking mountain views and access to the great outdoors.
  • Quiet: Chattanooga Valley offers peace and quiet, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

4. Hixson: Suburban Living, Great Prices

Just north of Chattanooga, Hixson is a gem of a community known for its affordable prices and family-friendly suburban living.

While many plan to move to Chattanooga’s downtown, Hixson offers a peaceful lifestyle with access to all the Downtown amenities at an affordable price. A eprect mix! Homes in Hixson range from $200,000 to $300,000, making it a great and still cheap option for first-time homebuyers. Start investing while you still can, these prices are not bound to last long!

  • Shopping and Dining: Hixson has many shopping centers and well-known restaurants.
  • Nature: The community has several parks like Chester Frost Park, with hiking trails and waterfront views.

5. Northshore: Trendy Yet Affordable

Northshore is an up-and-coming and trendy neighborhood located near the Tennessee River, known for its special quirky vibe and artistic community. Northshore’s blend of culture, community, and outdoor access makes it great for families, and younger buyers looking for an active lifestyle near nature. While parts of Northshore can be pricey, there are still affordable options available, with homes typically ranging from $250,000 to $400,000. It is still possible to find a steal here.
Art and Culture: The neighborhood is home to art galleries, theaters, and cultural events.

  • Dining and Shopping: Northshore has unique shops and restaurants, creating a fun and convenient atmosphere for residents.
  • Outdoor: The neighborhood is near Coolidge Park and the Riverwalk, offering plenty of outdoor opportunities if you wish.

How Do I Best Get Moving To Chattanooga

Pricing Van Lines is here to help you and your family afford to move to Chattanooga. We are a valuable resource that helps you navigate this challenge by providing quotes fit to your needs and give you comparisons from various moving companies so you can choose your favorites.

Factors such as distance, weight of your items, and additional services like packing or storage significantly influence costs. With Pricing Van Lines, you can quickly request free binding quotes to gauge potential costs upfront before the move.

Chattanooga Here I Come

Chattanooga offers so many affordable housing options, often overlooked by homebuyers. We highly recommend a visit to all the neighborhoods above to find that affordable steal of a house to make your new home. From family-friendly suburbs to cool new neighborhoods with diverse cultures, there’s something for everyone in Chattanooga!

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I waste less plastic when moving to keep it sustainable?

Moving really does call for lots of tape, cartons, and bubble wrap, but this doesn’t have to be an environmental nightmare. Where you can, replace bubble wrap with towels and sheets. Replace tape with ties (but not too much), and see how you can repurpose all these items later on. If you wrap things in your mom’s blankets, that’s one less blanket you will have to buy for your new apartment!

What is the worst thing that can happen before a move?

The worst thing would be your mover bailing on you the morning of your move. It happens all the time in the industry but never when you book with Pricing Van Lines. Booking a scammer is the worst thing that can happen and will add so much unneeded stress.

They can take a huge deposit up front and then just never show up or give a lame excuse and not answer your calls. This can be avoided by only booking a tried and trusted moving vendor from our marketplace and ignoring all the scammers online.

How long does it take to pack up the living room?

This depends on multiple factors such as size, clutter, decor you have, and other items. It’s more of a question for yourself if you plan to declutter or simply plan to throw everything in a box and call it a day. It can take from 4 hours to 10 hours on average. Don’t forget to label as you go to make the unpacking part go smoothly!

How do I help my pets get through the changes of moving?

Pets pick up on our vibes and need a familiar schedule. If you are stressed, you are likely to stress out your pet with this energy. Try and make the experience fun for them with lots of walks and treats. Associate the move with positive treats your pet loves to make the day easier on them.

Ensure to set up their home as soon as you get into the new home so that they can feel they have their own corner with food, water, and their bed. Have a friend or family pet sit if possible on moving day.

How can I help a family with kids moving?

Ask them what they need help with and they will appreciate it. It could be a few hours where you take the kids to your house so that they can pack up the house in peace or even go out for a date, or it could be a helping hand at home with the actual packing that they need help with.

Ask them directly, and don’t take no for an answer. Try to help them involve their child in the move and get them excited about the new adventure.