Urban Planner Salary in Chattanooga, Tennessee
The median urban planner salary in Chattanooga, TN is $69,995 per year, which is 12% below the national median and 1.1% below the Tennessee state average.
Urban Planner Pay in Chattanooga: What to Expect (2026)
Chattanooga offers a median urban planner salary of $69,995, which is $796 below the Tennessee state average of $70,791. Compared to the national median of $79,540, 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 $69,995 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $79,540 in an average-cost city. This makes Chattanooga an attractive option for urban planners seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for urban planners in Chattanooga spans from $44,000 at the 10th percentile to $107,360 at the 90th percentile — a $63,360 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $45,760, while senior urban planners with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $103,840. With a population of 181,099, Chattanooga is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Urban Planner Salary in Chattanooga by Experience
In Chattanooga, an entry-level urban planner earns around $45,760, while experienced professionals earn up to $103,840 per year. The local cost of living index is 88% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Chattanooga, TN
| Percentile | Chattanooga |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $44,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $55,440 |
| Median (50th) | $69,995 |
| 75th Percentile | $88,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $107,360 |
Urban Planner Salary in Other Tennessee Cities
How to Become a Urban Planner in Chattanooga
Education
Most urban planner positions require a master's degree. Chattanooga and the surrounding Tennessee area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, urban planner 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 Urban Planner Jobs in Chattanooga
Browse open urban planner positions in Chattanooga, TN: