Catering Manager Jobs in Chattanooga, TN

Chattanooga, Tennessee$54,000 USD/yearFull-timeTech Hub
Updated: March 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

Catering Manager Salary in Chattanooga

Entry Level
$34,425
Median
$54,000
Senior Level
$77,625

Catering Manager salaries in Chattanooga are in line with national averages, offering competitive compensation for the region.

Purchasing power in Chattanooga is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

Required Skills

Event PlanningClient RelationsMenu PlanningStaff CoordinationBudget Management

Catering Manager Job Market in Chattanooga

Chattanooga, TN is a specialized market with unique career opportunities for Catering Manager professionals. Though smaller than coastal metros, Chattanooga offers focused opportunities and often better work-life balance. While Technology leads the local economy, there's growing demand for Catering Manager roles across various sectors. The market for Catering Manager positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring Catering Managers in Chattanooga

Local governmentRegional employersNational companies

Major employers hiring Catering Managers in Chattanooga include Local government, Regional employers, National companies. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for Catering Managers in Chattanooga

Living in Chattanooga as a Catering Manager means navigating a cost of living that's close to the national average. Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. At median Catering Manager salary, rent would consume about 40% of gross income - above the recommended 30% threshold. Consider roommates or suburban options. Suburban apartments average $1,400/month, offering significant savings with slightly longer commutes.

90
Cost Index (100=avg)
$1.8K
Avg Rent/Month
Yes
Tech Hub
Tier 4
Market Size

Commuting as a Catering Manager in Chattanooga

Chattanooga Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute time is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services. Consider living close to your workplace. Since transit options are limited, consider living close to your workplace or negotiating flexible hours to avoid peak traffic.

Best neighborhoods for Catering Managers in Chattanooga: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among Catering Manager professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.

Tax Considerations in Tennessee

Tennessee has no state income tax. Compared to a state with 5% income tax, a Catering Manager earning $54,000 would save approximately $2,700 annually. This makes Chattanooga attractive for high earners, though property taxes and sales tax help fund state services.

Career Outlook for Catering Managers

The job outlook for Catering Managers in Chattanooga is stable. While not experiencing rapid growth, the field maintains steady demand with consistent opportunities for qualified professionals. While the market is smaller, Chattanooga offers opportunities for those seeking specialized roles or better work-life balance. In-demand skills include Event Planning, Client Relations, Menu Planning, Staff Coordination.

Relocating to Chattanooga

Chattanooga's affordable cost of living means your Catering Manager salary will stretch further than in major coastal cities. Many professionals relocate here for better quality of life. Tennessee has no state income tax, which can add thousands to your annual take-home pay compared to high-tax states like California or New York.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Catering Manager salary in Chattanooga, TN?

The average Catering Manager salary in Chattanooga, TN is $54,000 per year. Entry-level Catering Managers typically start around $34,425, while experienced professionals can earn $77,625 or more. The national average for Catering Manager roles is $60,000.

How many Catering Manager jobs are available in Chattanooga?

Chattanooga has a growing job market with steady opportunities for Catering Manager professionals. Major employers hiring Catering Managers include Local government, Regional employers, National companies. The Technology and Manufacturing sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Chattanooga a good city for Catering Managers?

Chattanooga is an excellent choice for Catering Managers. While not as large as coastal metros, it offers solid opportunities and often better work-life balance. The affordable cost of living means salaries go further than in more expensive markets. The city's technology industry creates strong demand for hospitality & tourism professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for Catering Managers in Chattanooga?

Top skills for Catering Managers in Chattanooga include Event Planning, Client Relations, Menu Planning, Staff Coordination, Budget Management. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork.

What is the cost of living for Catering Managers in Chattanooga?

Chattanooga's cost of living is near the national average (90% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. Purchasing power in Chattanooga is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for Catering Managers in Chattanooga?

Chattanooga Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services.

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