When comparing the population size of Chattanooga and Knoxville, Knoxville generally ranks larger in terms of its immediate municipal city limits and metropolitan population scope, though both function as major economic and cultural anchors in eastern Tennessee. Knoxville boasts a larger overall metropolitan statistical area population, driven heavily by its status as a massive regional hub and home to the flagship University of Tennessee campus. Meanwhile, Chattanooga maintains a similarly vibrant, fast-growing metropolitan footprint defined by its distinct scenic gorge geography and thriving industrial and tech sectors.