FIRE Number for Chattanooga, United States

A one-bedroom on the Northshore or Southside runs about $1,000, and with no state income tax the full $3,333 goes to living costs. You cook at home most nights, eat out casually a couple of times a week at places like Champy's, and spend free time hiking Lookout Mountain, climbing at Sunset Rock, or walking the Riverwalk. EPB's fiber internet keeps streaming and connectivity costs low.

A three-bedroom home on Lookout Mountain or Signal Mountain, or a luxury loft on the Northshore, with regular dinners at places like St. John's and Alleia. A late-model SUV handles mountain roads, and there is room for a golf membership, Tivoli Theatre season tickets, and regular travel. At Chattanooga's cost level with no state income tax, $10K a month covers an affluent life with significant margin.

A large estate on Lookout Mountain or Signal Mountain, a second home in the Smokies, a full-time housekeeper and property manager, and a cook who comes in several times a week. First-class travel, concierge healthcare with specialist access in Nashville or Atlanta, and generous community involvement are all well covered. At Chattanooga costs with no state income tax, this budget provides a very comfortable, well-staffed life with large monthly margins.