Auto Mechanic Salary in Chattanooga, Tennessee
The median auto mechanic salary in Chattanooga, TN is $41,351 per year, which is 12% below the national median and 1.1% below the Tennessee state average.
Auto Mechanic Pay in Chattanooga: What to Expect (2026)
Chattanooga offers a median auto mechanic salary of $41,351, which is $470 below the Tennessee state average of $41,821. Compared to the national median of $46,990, Chattanooga pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Chattanooga's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 88% of the national average. This means the $41,351 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $46,990 in an average-cost city. This makes Chattanooga an attractive option for auto mechanics seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for auto mechanics in Chattanooga spans from $26,400 at the 10th percentile to $66,000 at the 90th percentile — a $39,600 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $28,160, while senior auto mechanics with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $63,360. With a population of 181,099, Chattanooga is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Auto Mechanic Salary in Chattanooga by Experience
In Chattanooga, an entry-level auto mechanic earns around $28,160, while experienced professionals earn up to $63,360 per year. The local cost of living index is 88% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Chattanooga, TN
| Percentile | Chattanooga |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $26,400 |
| 25th Percentile | $32,560 |
| Median (50th) | $41,351 |
| 75th Percentile | $52,800 |
| 90th Percentile | $66,000 |
Auto Mechanic Salary in Other Tennessee Cities
How to Become a Auto Mechanic in Chattanooga
Education
Most auto mechanic positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Chattanooga and the surrounding Tennessee area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, auto mechanic employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Chattanooga may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Auto Mechanic Jobs in Chattanooga
Browse open auto mechanic positions in Chattanooga, TN: