Lived in Chattanooga for almost twenty years. It's a great place. Solid local food scene, ready access to an array of amazing outdoors activities (hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, rock climbing, fishing, hunting, etc.), and an expanding market for the arts, entertainment, and minor-league sports.
Where you'll want to live will depend a lot on your commuting preferences and your family situation. Even with that said, I'm not sure I'd target East Ridge. PM me if you'd like and I'd be happy to elaborate.