Thinking about moving to Chattanooga? In this guide, we’ll be covering the best neighborhoods in Chattanooga, TN. Nestled along the Tennessee River and surrounded by picturesque mountains, Chattanooga is a city that has it all-natural beauty, a growing economy, and a vibrant cultural scene. Known as the “Scenic City,” Chattanooga has become an attractive destination for both families and young professionals seeking a balance between urban conveniences and outdoor adventures. With a revitalized downtown, an ever-expanding job market, and top-rated schools, Chattanooga is more than just a tourist spot; it’s a place where people are eager to plant roots.
The city is celebrated for its strong community spirit, and its neighborhoods offer unique features. From charming historic districts to outdoor recreation or a modern urban lifestyle, Chattanooga’s diverse neighborhoods have something for everyone. Below, we explore some of the best neighborhoods in Chattanooga, each offering a mix of amenities, housing, and opportunities.
Whether you’re considering relocating or simply exploring, here’s a guide to five notable neighborhoods in Chattanooga, each with an overview, things to do, schools, housing options, and employment opportunities.
1. North Shore
Overview:
North Shore is one of Chattanooga’s most popular and lively neighborhoods, located just across the Tennessee River from downtown. It’s known for its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and local art galleries, giving it a vibrant, walkable feel. The neighborhood offers scenic views of the river and downtown skyline and is ideal for both young professionals and families.
Things To Do:
Residents can enjoy a stroll through Coolidge Park, take a ride on the iconic carousel, or walk across the Walnut Street Pedestrian Bridge, which connects North Shore to downtown Chattanooga. Frazier Avenue is the heart of North Shore, lined with boutiques, cafes, and breweries, making it a perfect spot for weekend outings.
Schools:
North Shore is served by well-regarded public schools, including Normal Park Museum Magnet School, which has been praised for its innovative curriculum. Private school options are also available, including St. Peter’s School, offering small class sizes and personalized education.
Homes:
The neighborhood offers a mix of housing options, including historic bungalows, modern condos, and renovated townhomes. Many homes offer views of the Tennessee River and the downtown skyline. North Shore’s popularity has driven home prices up in recent years, but it remains one of Chattanooga’s most desirable places to live.
Work:
North Shore is a great place for professionals who want to live close to downtown Chattanooga. Many residents work in the healthcare, education, and tech industries, and commuting across the pedestrian bridge to the city center is easy and convenient.
2. Lookout Mountain
Overview:
Lookout Mountain is one of Chattanooga’s most prestigious neighborhoods, known for its stunning views, historic homes, and peaceful atmosphere. Perched high above the city, Lookout Mountain offers a serene, residential setting while still being just a short drive from downtown. It’s a popular choice for families and retirees who value privacy and luxury.
Things To Do:
Lookout Mountain is home to some of Chattanooga’s most famous attractions, including Rock City, Ruby Falls, and the Incline Railway. Residents can also enjoy hiking and outdoor activities in nearby parks like Point Park, which offers panoramic views of the Tennessee River and the surrounding valley.
Schools:
The Lookout Mountain area is known for its excellent public and private schools. Lookout Mountain Elementary School is highly rated, and families also have access to Baylor School, a prestigious private boarding and day school offering top-tier academics and athletics.
Homes:
Homes on Lookout Mountain are often large, historic estates or custom-built modern properties, many of which offer stunning views of the mountains or the river. With expansive lots and privacy, home prices in this neighborhood are among the highest in Chattanooga.
Work:
While Lookout Mountain feels remote, it’s only a 15-20 minute drive from downtown Chattanooga, making it an ideal location for professionals working in the city. The neighborhood itself has limited job opportunities, but the short commute allows residents to enjoy the best of both worlds.
3. St. Elmo
Overview:
St. Elmo is a historic neighborhood located at the base of Lookout Mountain, known for its charming Victorian homes and strong sense of community. The area has undergone significant revitalization in recent years, attracting new businesses and residents who appreciate its quirky, artsy vibe. St. Elmo is ideal for those who want to live in a historic area with easy access to outdoor adventures.
Things To Do:
The Incline Railway, which leads to the top of Lookout Mountain, starts in St. Elmo, making it a popular tourist destination. Residents can also enjoy local shops, cafes, and the scenic Tennessee Riverwalk, which runs through the neighborhood. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby hiking and biking trails.
Schools:
St. Elmo has access to good public schools, including Calvin Donaldson Environmental Science Academy and Lookout Valley Middle/High School. There are also private school options nearby for families seeking alternative education choices.
Homes:
The neighborhood is known for its beautiful, restored Victorian homes, as well as Craftsman-style houses. St. Elmo offers a range of housing options, from affordable fixer-uppers to fully renovated historic properties. The community’s unique architecture and affordability make it a popular choice for both first-time homebuyers and seasoned homeowners.
Work:
Many residents of St. Elmo work in nearby downtown Chattanooga, making it a convenient place to live for those who want a short commute. The neighborhood’s growing number of small businesses and shops also provide local employment opportunities.
4. Downtown Chattanooga
Overview:
Downtown Chattanooga has seen a major transformation over the past few decades, becoming a bustling urban center with a thriving cultural and business scene. This neighborhood is ideal for professionals, young couples, and anyone looking for a vibrant city lifestyle with plenty of amenities at their fingertips. It’s the heart of the city, with a mix of historic buildings, modern condos, and new developments.
Things To Do:
Downtown Chattanooga is packed with attractions, including the Tennessee Aquarium, the Hunter Museum of American Art, and the Chattanooga Riverwalk. Residents can enjoy a wide variety of dining options, from fine dining to casual eateries, as well as a lively nightlife scene. The area also hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year.
Schools:
Downtown is home to several public and charter schools, including Battle Academy for Teaching and Learning. There are also private school options, such as McCallie School and Girls Preparatory School, both offering excellent education programs.
Homes:
Housing in downtown Chattanooga ranges from historic lofts and converted warehouses to new luxury condos with stunning river views. The neighborhood’s revitalization has led to a surge in property values, but there are still options for renters and buyers at various price points.
Work:
As the business and financial hub of the city, downtown Chattanooga is home to numerous corporate offices, tech startups, and healthcare facilities. It’s an ideal location for professionals looking to live and work in the same area, with a short commute to other parts of the city.
5. Hixson
Overview:
Located just north of downtown Chattanooga, Hixson is a growing suburban neighborhood that offers a family-friendly atmosphere with access to outdoor recreation and shopping centers. It’s an affordable alternative to some of Chattanooga’s more central neighborhoods, making it a great option for families and retirees seeking a quiet, residential environment.
Things To Do:
Hixson offers plenty of outdoor activities, including Chickamauga Lake, where residents can enjoy boating, fishing, and picnicking. The Northgate Mall and other shopping centers provide convenient retail and dining options, while nearby Greenway Farms offers hiking trails and kayak access to the Tennessee River.
Schools:
Hixson is home to several well-rated schools, including Hixson High School and Big Ridge Elementary School. The area also offers a variety of private school options for families seeking alternative educational environments.
Homes:
Hixson has a wide range of housing options, from affordable single-family homes to newer developments with modern amenities. The neighborhood’s affordability and proximity to outdoor recreation make it a popular choice for families and those looking for more space.
Work:
While many Hixson residents commute to downtown Chattanooga for work, the neighborhood also offers local employment opportunities in retail, healthcare, and education. Its convenient location near major highways makes commuting relatively easy.
In Closing
There you have it, our new “Best Neighborhoods In Chattanooga” guide. While these are often considered to be the top five locations to live in Chattanooga, TN, there are several amazing locations throughout the city and surrounding areas.
We hope you found this useful, be sure to check out our full moving to Chattanooga guide.
Here at Fox Moving, we provide several different solutions to help you move to Chattanooga and store your belongings there. We can also help with long-distance moving, interstate moving, residential moves, and much more.
If you need a Chattanooga moving company, we can help. Give us a call to get started: 423-855-7000