Chattanooga, Tennessee
Why invest in Chattanooga?
Chattanooga’s economy has boomed in recent years thanks to a mix of affordable housing, steady growth, and strong job creation. Major employers like Volkswagen, Amazon, BlueCross of Tennessee and numerous advanced manufacturers draw newcomers (and renters) to the area. The city’s tech infrastructure is also a draw – Chattanooga’s public utility (EPB) offers citywide gigabit fiber, and analysts have ranked it among the top U.S. cities for remote work. At the same time Chattanooga offers a high quality of life (riverview trails, music venues, Southern cuisine) at a lower cost than many coastal metros. These factors combine to sustain strong rental demand and steady price appreciation.
Chattanooga:
An Overview
Chattanooga is a major college town (UTC) and health center, with about 53% owner-occupied homes (≈47% renters) – a diverse housing base that supports stable rental demand.
Growth in Motion: Key Industries Fueling Chattanooga
Chattanooga’s economy is diversified. Manufacturing and technology are key: the Volkswagen auto plant and Nokian tire factory employ thousands, and Chattanooga’s EPB fiber-optic network has earned it the “Gig City” reputation attracting tech start-ups. Healthcare and education are major sectors: BlueCross BlueShield (TN’s largest health insurer), Erlanger Medical Center and Memorial Health System are top employers, alongside Hamilton County Schools and area universities. The Tennessee Valley Authority also anchors the energy sector. Chattanooga’s robust tourism and outdoor recreation economy brings in over 15 million visitors annually (hiking Lookout Mountain, riverfront parks, etc.), supporting hospitality and service jobs. All of this adds up to consistent job growth – unemployment is near historic lows (around 2–3%) – fueling rental demand and home value appreciation.
Living Local:
The Soul and Spirit of Chattanooga
Chattanooga blends urban amenities with outdoor adventure and Southern culture. The downtown riverfront is anchored by the Tennessee Aquarium (a leading freshwater exhibit) and the historic Chattanooga Choo Choo (a restored train terminal now a hotel and entertainment complex). Families enjoy the hands-on Creative Discovery Museum and miles of trails and parks along the Tennessee River. The 13-mile Tennessee Riverwalk and Walnut Street pedestrian bridge offer scenic walks. Across the river, the North Shore district (Coolidge Park, art installations) is a popular entertainment area.
Lookout Mountain looms over Chattanooga with famed attractions: Ruby Falls (the country’s deepest underground waterfall) and the Incline Railway to Point Park overlook the city. Ruby Falls is particularly notable: “the tallest and deepest underground waterfall open to the public in the United States”. Outdoor enthusiasts also enjoy nearby state parks, rock climbing and water sports in the surrounding Appalachian foothills. Chattanooga hosts lively annual events like a summer riverfront music festival and has a growing craft beer and BBQ scene to highlight its Southern culture.
