Cost of Living in Etowah, TN
Population 3,621 · Tennessee · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Household incomes in Etowah run well below national norms — a median of $43,614 versus the $74,580 US figure. Housing costs partially offset that gap (typical home values around $166,000). At 18.1%, the local unemployment rate runs well above the US figure, pointing to structural rather than cyclical labor-market issues.
Etowah is about 45 miles east of Chattanooga, the nearest large metro — close enough that regional housing and labor patterns are shaped largely by the larger market. Median home values run roughly 36% lower than Chattanooga's $259,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Etowah
The median home value in Etowah is $165,900 — 46% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $817/month, 38% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $43,614/year is 42% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 18.1%, above the national average of 4.8%. Tennessee charges no state income tax, a meaningful advantage for take-home pay. Overall, Etowah has a cost of living index of 58 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 42% less expensive.
Etowah has limited residential data
Detailed housing and income data is limited for this location. Here are the nearest cities with full cost of living data:
🏠 Housing
HUD Fair Market Rents by Bedroom
💰 Estimated Monthly Budget
Estimates based on median data and national averages. Actual costs vary.
🛒 Food & Groceries
National BLS average prices (2023). Local prices may vary.
🚗 Transportation
Commute Mode
⚡ Utilities
📋 Taxes
💼 Income & Employment
🎓 Education
👥 Demographics
💨 Air Quality
EPA AQS 2023 — county-level monitoring data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Etowah, TN?
Etowah has a cost index of 58 (100 = national average). It is 42% below the national average.
What is average rent in Etowah, TN?
The median gross rent in Etowah is $817 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Etowah?
The median home value in Etowah is $165,900 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Etowah?
The median household income in Etowah is $43,614 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Etowah, TN?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Etowah is 9.6%. Tennessee has no state income tax.
Is Etowah, TN affordable?
Yes, Etowah is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 58 — about 42% below the US national average of 100.
Etowah at a Glance
- Population
- 3,621
- Median Income
- $43,614
- Home Value
- $165,900
- Median Rent
- $817/mo
- Unemployment
- 18.1%
- Sales Tax
- 9.6%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data
Tennessee Rankings
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