Chattanooga Tower (CHA)

📍 About Chattanooga Tower (CHA)

Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA), also known as Lovell Field, is located just east of downtown Chattanooga. The city is known for its vibrant riverfront, scenic beauty, low cost of living, and mix of outdoor adventure and modern amenities.

🏡 Where to Live

Popular Areas

• East Brainerd – Very close to CHA, family-oriented, suburban
• Downtown Chattanooga – Walkable, urban, near riverfront
• Red Bank – Affordable, close to downtown, quiet
• Signal Mountain – Scenic views, top schools, upscale
• Hixson – Suburban, lakeside parks, good for families

🚗 Commute Times to CHA

• 0–10 min: East Brainerd, Airport area
• 10–20 min: Downtown Chattanooga, Red Bank
• 20–30 min: Signal Mountain, Hixson

🎓 Top School Districts

• Hamilton County Schools – Public school district for the area
• Signal Mountain schools – Top-rated in the county

🧳 Things to Do

• Visit Lookout Mountain and Ruby Falls
• Explore the Tennessee Aquarium and downtown Riverwalk
• Outdoor fun: hiking, rock climbing, paddleboarding on the river
• Local restaurants, breweries, and farmers markets

✈️ Nearby Airports

• CHA: Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (on-site)
• Atlanta Hartsfield (ATL): ~2 hours south
• Nashville International (BNA): ~2 hours northwest

💰 Cost of Living

• Median home price: ~$280,000
• 1-bedroom rent: ~$1,100–$1,400/month
• Utilities: ~$160/month
• No state income tax in Tennessee

☀️ Weather

• Winter: Mild with rare snow
• Spring: Pleasant and green
• Summer: Hot and humid, 80s–90s°F
• Fall: Cool and colorful

🛫 ATC-Specific Tips

• East Brainerd offers the shortest commute
• Night shifts? Invest in blackout curtains
• Controllers often meet up downtown or near Hixson

📦 Moving Tips

• East Brainerd and Hixson offer newer developments
• Downtown apartments fill fast in spring/summer
• Explore Signal Mountain early if considering long-term family home

❓ FAQs

• Is Chattanooga walkable?
  Downtown is, but most neighborhoods are car-dependent.
• Is Tennessee affordable?
  Yes, especially compared to neighboring states. No income tax.
• Do I need AWD?
  Not usually. Only needed if living on a steep mountain area.