Choosing Chattanooga
This month marks nine years since I blindly moved to Chattanooga. I’d never visited, and all I knew about the city was what I’d seen online. I liked its riverfront, its creative vibe and its cost of living, which was similar to my mid-sized Kentucky town.
I won’t ever forget the first time I made the five-hour drive, my 20-year-old Camry loaded with all I could fit. I was becoming more nervous by the mile. Then, I rounded the ridge on I-24, the valley opened up, and I saw the city for the first time: its buildings; its bridges; its mountains.
And just like that, I knew I was where I was supposed to be.
Chattanooga has that effect on people.
According to recent census data, many metro areas in the U.S. are shrinking – but Chattanooga is an exception. Among Tennessee’s 10 biggest cities, Chattanooga is one of only three continuing to attract new residents. Between our gig-speed internet and outdoor opportunities, it’s no surprise, really.
In this year’s 20 under 40, we decided to highlight those young professionals who can’t call Chattanooga their hometown, but who now call it home.
Meet them in our first story below.
– Sunny Montgomery, editor