Nestled in Hamilton County just north of the Georgia border and just to the east of Chattanooga, Collegedale is a small city well-known for being host to the Southern Adventist University, a popular Seventh Day Adventist college in the state. During the First World War, the SAU was first commissioned, which led to a small community forming around the campus. This community would eventually grow into a city of several thousand, officially incorporated as Collegedale. Although many still live here because of the campus, the city has taken on a life of its own, and is a wonderful place to settle for those looking for quick access to Chattanooga.
Collegedale, TN Population & Demographics
The city of Collegedale has a population of 11,275 distributed out over 12.1 miles at a population density of about 900 people per square mile. The median age here is 34.2, which is a few years less than the Tennessee average of 38.7. The median household income in Collegedale is $59,015, which is about 1.4 times higher than the average household income for the state of Tennessee, being $55,660.
Collegedale is a semi-diverse place, with 66% of the population being Caucasian, as well as significant Hispanic and black communities which make up 14% and 11% of the community’s population respectively. Collegedale’s gender ratio is slightly skewed towards females, being 52% of Collegedale’s population.
Collegedale’s zip codes include 37302, 37315, and 37363, while the area code is 423. Collegedale is a semi-isolated community, having no direct neighbors besides Chattanooga and the nearby northern border of Georgia. However, a short drive west will take you right into Chattanooga’s city center.
Thinking about moving to this community, but wondering if Collegedale is a safe place to live? Luckily for you, Collegedale has got a great A rating on AreaVibes! The total crime rate here is 22% lower than the national average, with property crime being 12% lower and violent crime being 78% lower. Your family will be safe in Collegedale!
Cost of Living in Collegedale, TN
Collegedale is affluent and safe, but doesn’t weigh quite as heavy on the wallet as other communities of similar stature, with the cost of living here only being 1% higher on average than other places in America, according to Payscale. Homes in Collegedale are more than 1.4 times the cost of a home in Tennessee, with the average home costing you $229,000. However, this makes up for most of Collegedale’s high costs. If you choose to move to Collegedale, you’ll find that just about everything else, from utilities to groceries, is cheaper than the national average. Similarly, renting here is also fairly affordable, with an average monthly rent of $1,263.
Collegedale may have pricey housing compared to other places in America, but it’s more than worth the price. If you’re looking for a place to settle down and buy property, few places give you more bang for your buck than Collegedale!
Collegedale, TN Schools & Colleges
Aside from the previously mentioned Southern Adventist University, Collegedale also has a great selection of schools for the younger kids. In Collegedale, you will be served primarily by the Hamilton County School District. Pickings for schools within city limits are slim, but there are options. Notable ones include Wolftever Creek Elementary School, Collegedale Adventist Middle School, and the private 9-12 Collegedale Academy.
Collegedale, TN Climate & Weather
Tennessee’s weather is relatively hot and humid, and Collegedale does not upend this established fact. You can expect lows of 29 degrees Fahrenheit during the winter months, and highs of 89 degrees Fahrenheit during the summer months. Collegedale experiences more than the average amount of rainfall when compared with the rest of the United States, with 51 inches per year as compared to 38. Meanwhile, Collegedale experiences minimal amounts of snow, with only 2 inches per year as compared to the average of 28. The best times to visit Collegedale, in terms of comfort rating, are May and September.
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Best Neighborhoods in Collegedale, TN
Collegedale may be small, as far as cities go, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty of opportunity for making yourself at home in a distinct community! Check out some of your neighborhood options below:
Some might be confused by the relationship between the oddly-named Ooltewah and Collegedale. Ooltewah is an enclave within Collegedale’s limits, and is essentially the city’s “downtown”, where all the best attractions and restaurants reside. This community is great for those who want to be close to the city’s center, and also close to Chattanooga. Meanwhile, those interested in living around the Southern Adventist University, whether working or attending the institution, should check out property in Collegedale’s south.
If you want to make yourself a part of any of these communities, you should check out the latest listings for homes for sale in Collegedale, TN.
Jobs in Collegedale, TN
Those planning on making a living in Collegedale should know that wages have been going up while cost of living has been going up at about the same rate, according to Payscale. The most popular positions of employment are Associate Professor, Business Insight and Analytics Manager, and Clinical Research Coordinator. The largest employers in the area are City of Chattanooga, Unum Group, and Tennessee Valley Authority. The average salary for a worker in Collegedale is $65k a year, while the average hourly wage is $15.63.
Collegedale’s primary industries are its nearby college, as well as jobs relating to the nearby city of Chattanooga and investment. Check out the latest listings for jobs in Collegedale, TN here.
Things to Do in Collegedale, TN
Moving to the beautiful city of Collegedale means plenty of opportunities to see wonderful sights, experience fun attractions, and partake in truly great shopping experiences. Check out shopping centers nearby like Cambridge Square for all your shopping needs! You should also check out some of the best things to do in Collegedale, TN below:
Veteran’s Memorial Park
Located in a beautiful thicket of trees along Wolftever Creek, this park was designed to honor Collegedale’s military veteran, the beautiful Veteran’s Memorial Park incorporates educational elements about their service to enlighten you and your kids alike.
Collegedale, TN 37363, +14233963135
Tucker Road Recreation Area
Kids too energetic? Need somewhere where they can let loose and play to their little hearts content? The Tucker Road Recreation Area has a robust playground with everything your little ones could desire!
5201 Tucker Rd, Ooltewah, TN 37363
Collegedale, TN Additional Attractions:
Places to Eat in Collegedale, TN
Alongside its host of things to do, Collegedale is also home to plenty of great eats! Check out some below:
Rafael’s Pizzeria
Looking for a local taste of the old country? Look no further than Rafael’s Pizzeria! A small, family-owned Collegedale favorite, Rafael’s Pizzeria brings the very best of Italy’s cuisine right to your doorstep.
5032 Ooltewah Ringgold Rd #128, Ooltewah, TN 37363, +14233962333
4 Corners Cafe
Looking for a pick-me-up? With a fantastic selection of coffee and other treats, 4 Corners Cafe is the place to go if you’re having a rough morning while living in Collegedale!
9408 Apison Pike #102, Ooltewah, TN 37363, +14233963080
Moving to Collegedale, TN Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Affluent
- Safe
Cons:
- A little pricey
Ready to take that last step and start your journey to making Collegedale your new home? Give All Out Moving a call! Our crew of highly-trained professional movers will ensure your move is a stress-free process at affordable rates! Call now or fill out our online form for a free quote!
