College Costs in Chattanooga, TN 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 5 colleges in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$9,648
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$39,466
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,102
per month
Colleges & Universities
5
institutions
Chattanooga Overview
Population
182,799
Student Population
12,606 (6.9%)
Cost of Living Index
80 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
64/100
Transit Score
33/100
Unemployment Rate
3%
College Cost Calculator for Chattanooga
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$87,432
Total After Financial Aid
$87,432
Annual Cost
$21,858
Annual After Aid
$21,858
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $87,432 |
| Monthly Payment | $993 |
| Total Interest | $31,701 |
| Total Loan Cost | $119,133 |
Universities in Chattanooga
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| University of Tennessee at Chattanooga | Public | $9,648 |
| Chattanooga State Community College | Community | $4,320 |
Chattanooga has 5 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Chattanooga vs. National Average
| Category | Chattanooga | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $9,648 | $10,940 | -$1,292 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,102 | $1,050 | +$52 |
| Cost of Living Index | 80 | 100 | -20 |
Chattanooga's cost of living is below the national average. This makes it a more affordable city for students compared to many other college towns.
Student Life in Chattanooga
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
12,606 students
Chattanooga has a total population of 182,799, with approximately 12,606 college students (6.9% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Chattanooga offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Chattanooga
$48,711
Starting Salary
3%
Unemployment Rate
50%
Graduation Rate
~6 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Chattanooga earn a median starting salary of $48,711, which is $13,711 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $87,432 (including room and board), it would take approximately 6 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $9,310 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
Other Cities in Tennessee
Nashville
35 colleges · Avg tuition $9,312
Memphis
22 colleges · Avg tuition $9,944
Knoxville
5 colleges · Avg tuition $8,792
Clarksville
9 colleges · Avg tuition $9,312
Murfreesboro
10 colleges · Avg tuition $9,312
Johnson City
6 colleges · Avg tuition $9,312
Cookeville
4 colleges · Avg tuition $9,312
Sewanee
3 colleges · Avg tuition $11,397
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Calculators
Explore 350+ Cities Across the U.S.
Compare college costs, housing, and student life in every major U.S. city.
Browse All Cities