Let’s face it – city living isn’t for everyone. Even if they work in a major metropolis, many people want to escape the fast pace of the city at the end of their day. Is Chattanooga a good place to live? With a healthy economy and lively downtown, it’s a great city to work and reside in. But, you don’t have to live inside of downtown to enjoy the benefits that come with Chattanooga. If this city is calling your name, but you’re not into the urban lifestyle, you’re looking for a Chattanooga suburban community that suits your needs.
A suburb is defined as an outlying district of a city, usually considered residential in nature. These areas have lower population densities, are more affordable than cities, and are attractive to individuals and families seeking a more relaxed lifestyle than cities tend to offer. However, like Chattanooga neighborhoods, suburbs have their own personalities as well. Some may be affluent, while others attract a more working-class population. Some may be LGBTQ+ friendly. One may be more popular with retirees, while another might be highly sought after by young families. If you’re looking for the perfect suburban experience in the Chattanooga area, you’ve come to the right place – our comprehensive list will help you find the area that’s right for you.
Lookout Mountain | An Upscale Family Suburb in Chattanooga
- Population: 1,930
- Median Household Income: $120,900
- Median Home Cost: $570,000
- Lookout Mountain, TN Homes For Sale
One of the best Chattanooga suburbs is the affluent town of Lookout Mountain. Set against breathtaking mountain views, this beautiful suburb is only minutes from Downtown Chattanooga. Prospective Lookout Mountain residents will find great public schools, pristine neighborhoods, and beautiful shopping opportunities. Nature and sports are popular with residents here, and local attractions include Ruby Falls, Rock City, and Incline Railway. The public schools that serve Lookout Mountain are highly ranked in Tennessee, and a third of the households have school-aged children. With all that Lookout Mountain has to offer, it’s no surprise this suburb is considered one of the best places to live in Tennessee.
Signal Mountain | A Lively Chattanooga Suburb Set in Nature
- Population: 8,500
- Median Household Income: $98,700
- Median Home Cost: $383,000
- Signal Mountain, TN Homes For Sale
If you’re looking for a more lively Chattanooga suburb, Signal Mountain is a great option. Located atop Walden Ridge, this close-knit community boasts magnificent views and extensive options for hikers, backpackers, and golfers. Signal Mountain isn’t just for nature lovers though – music and art lovers will love access to The Mountain Arts Community Center, The Signal Mountain Playhouse, and The Mountain Opry. Prospective residents will also find charming boutiques and great restaurants here. With so much to do, and great school options, this area is perfect for young families and professionals.
Red Bank | Affordable Southern Charm inside Chattanooga
- Population: 11,651
- Median Household Income: $33,848
- Median Home Cost: $254,000
- Red Bank, TN Homes For Sale
At the base of Signal Mountain sits the Chattanooga community of Red Bank. This tight-knit suburb offers the same natural beauty of Signal Mountain and Lookout Mountain, but at a much more affordable price. Real estate is booming in Red Bank, and the affordable homes are attracting an influx of new residents. If you’re looking for a family-friendly Chattanooga neighborhood, you can’t get better than this one. With plenty of playgrounds and areas for kids to run around and play sports, some of Chattanooga’s best public and private schools are located here. In addition, Red Bank is known for its kid-friendly amenities, including its community pool, playgrounds, and ball fields. Residents also enjoy access to nearby Coolidge Park, the Tennessee Aquarium, and the beautiful views at Stringers Ridge Overlook. The increasing popularity of the area has led to new business opportunities – Red Bank is definitely up and coming.
East Brainerd | Best Chattanooga Suburb With City Amenities
- Population: 14,132
- Median Household Income: $66,151
- Median Home Cost: $300,000
- East Brainerd, TN Homes For Sale
With quick access to highways and airports, East Brainerd is considered the best Chattanooga suburb for professionals. East Brainerd sits only minutes from Downtown Chattanooga, but with so many city amenities, you’ll have everything you need within reach. Not only will you have a short commute if you work downtown, but this suburb in Chattanooga offers tons of local shopping and dining options, which means there are lots of job opportunities here. Almost half the families here have children under the age of 18, making it family-friendly with an urban feel. Plus, East Brainerd offers many recreational activities to keep the kids busy. In addition to traditional public schools, East Brainerd is home to the highly rated Chattanooga School for Liberal Arts. Real estate is hot in East Brainerd right now, and townhomes are popular residences here. You can expect to find many young families in this area.
Hixson | The Most Affordable Chattanooga Suburb
- Population: 15,374
- Median Household Income: $71,655
- Median Home Cost: $240,000
- Hixson, TN Homes For Sale
Though the gorgeous views of the Tennessee River might make a prospective resident think Hixson is laid-back, this suburb is buzzing with activity. Only 15 minutes from Downtown Chattanooga, a night out on the town is within arms reach. Many people enjoy this town thanks to the affordable housing currently available. The homes are much cheaper in this Chattanooga suburb than others, so if you’re looking for the most affordable neighborhood in Chattanooga, this is the place! Hixson Northtowne Center and Northgate Mall are great for shoppers, and the North Chickamauga Creek Conservancy and Chickamauga Dam attracts nature lovers who can hike, picnic, or fish. Families can take advantage of the many parks, walking trails, or extracurricular activities offered by the highly rated schools in the area. Foodies will find amazing BBQ in Hixson. And if golf is your game, you’ll love living near Creeks Bend Golf Club.
Soddy-Daisy | Active Living For Young Families
- Population: 13,162
- Median Household Income: $41,400
- Median Home Cost: $248,000
- Soddy-Daisy, TN Homes For Sale
Just 18 miles northwest of Downtown Chattanooga lies the suburb of Soddy-Daisy. Once two separate cities, Soddy and Daisy incorporated as one in 1969. Residents enjoy stunning waterfront views of the Tennessee River and Chickamauga Lake. Low property taxes make Soddy-Daisy more affordable, and infrastructure improvements signal continued growth in the area. There are endless outdoor activities, from hiking to boating to fishing and beyond. The extensive amount of recreation in Soddy-Daisy is attractive for families. Roughly one third of the households in Soddy-Daisy have children under the age of 18. Schools in this area are above average, and families can choose from private or public options. In addition, the Soddy-Daisy Parks and Recreation department has a dedicated Kids Club with lots of extracurricular activity opportunities.
Ooltewah | Suburb To Watch
- Population: 432
- Median Household Income: $31,200
- Median Home Cost: $324,000
- Ooltewah, TN Homes For Sale
Ooltewah may be small, but it’s a suburb to watch. Nearby Southern Adventist University and Bryan College School of Adult and Graduate Studies give Ooltewah a college-town feel. Volkswagen and Amazon recently opened hubs in the area, Ooltewah and sister city Collegedale are prosperous suburbs with lots of employment opportunities. Both communities are growing fast, and new homes are being built to accommodate the influx; prospective residents might even be able to grab an affordable lakefront property. As it stands, not many currently reside in Ooltewah, though many fantastic schools serve the suburb.
Map of the Best Chattanooga Suburbs
Do you think moving to one of these Chattanooga suburbs is in your future? If you’re relocating to one of these amazing communities, you’ll want the best Chattanooga movers to help you get there. All Out Moving is the best moving company in the Chattanooga area. Our trustworthy, dedicated team is happy to get you packed and moved into your new home without hassle! Call 423-716-3025 for a free quote today.
