What is the average salary in Hickory, NC?
Exploring job opportunities in Hickory, NC, can be rewarding both professionally and financially. The average yearly salary for employees in Hickory stands at $52,097. This figure provides a baseline for understanding the earning potential in the area. Knowing this average helps job seekers set realistic expectations about what they might expect to earn.
Hickory offers a variety of salary ranges across different sectors. The distribution is as follows: 23.28% earn $22,000 or less, 25.36% earn between $22,001 and $33,182, 13.42% earn between $33,183 and $44,364, 10.40% earn between $44,365 and $55,545, 6.70% earn between $55,546 and $66,727, 6.28% earn between $66,728 and $77,909, 4.54% earn between $77,910 and $89,091, 2.06% earn between $89,092 and $100,273, 1.30% earn between $100,274 and $111,455, 0.86% earn between $111,456 and $122,636, and 0.80% earn $122,637 or more. These figures highlight the diversity in earning potentials available to job seekers in Hickory.
What are the best paying jobs in Hickory, NC?

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Nurse Practitioner
Average Salary: $146,178
This role offers a fulfilling career, focusing on patient care and health education. Many local clinics and hospitals value their nurse practitioners. The area benefits from a growing healthcare sector.
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Behavior Analyst
Average Salary: $91,729
This job involves working with individuals to improve their quality of life. It requires strong analytical skills. Many schools and care facilities hire behavior analysts for their expertise.
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Traveling Nurse
Average Salary: $89,238
Traveling nurses enjoy a dynamic work experience, moving between different facilities. They provide essential care in various settings. This role allows for personal and professional growth.
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CDL Driver
Average Salary: $89,220
Driving a commercial vehicle is a stable career path. Drivers often work for logistics companies. The job provides a good work-life balance.
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Outside Sales Representative
Average Salary: $86,018
Selling products directly to customers is a key part of this role. Representatives interact with many businesses. The job offers potential for significant earnings with the right strategies.
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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $76,273
Nursing is a vital profession, providing essential care to patients. Hospitals and clinics need skilled nurses. The job offers opportunities for advancement and specialization.
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General Manager
Average Salary: $62,787
Managing a business requires strong leadership skills. Managers oversee daily operations and staff. They play a crucial role in the success of their businesses.
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Licensed Practical Nurse
Average Salary: $58,481
LPNs provide basic patient care under the supervision of registered nurses. They work in hospitals, clinics, and care facilities. The job is rewarding and stable.
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Hair Stylist
Average Salary: $58,155
This creative career involves styling and cutting hair. Stylists work in salons and offer personalized services. Many find joy in helping clients look their best.
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Retail Sales Associate
Average Salary: $56,043
Selling products directly to customers is key in this role. Associates work in various stores, from clothing to electronics. The job offers a chance to interact with many people daily.
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What are the best paying jobs in Hickory, NC without a degree?

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Sales Inspector
Average Salary: $77,279
In this role, you will inspect and evaluate products for quality and compliance. This job is ideal for those who enjoy working outdoors and can communicate well. Companies like local hardware stores and appliance retailers need inspectors in this area.
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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $45,333
Manage day-to-day restaurant operations, including staff and customer service. This position requires strong leadership skills and the ability to handle budgets. Local eateries and chain restaurants often seek managers in Hickory.
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Groundskeeper
Average Salary: $38,879
Maintain the landscaping and grounds of properties. This job involves working outdoors and using tools to care for lawns and gardens. Many businesses, from hotels to private residences, need groundskeepers.
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Concrete Finisher
Average Salary: $35,682
Prepare and finish concrete surfaces for buildings and structures. This role requires manual skills and attention to detail. Construction firms in Hickory regularly look for skilled finishers.
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Loader
Average Salary: $35,008
Load and unload materials using machinery. This job involves operating forklifts and other equipment. It is suitable for those comfortable with physical labor. Companies in logistics and warehousing need loaders.
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Meat Cutter
Average Salary: $33,073
Cut and package meat for sale. This position requires precision and knowledge of meat cuts. Grocery stores and butcher shops frequently hire meat cutters.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $30,245
Prepare food for customers in a fast-paced kitchen. This job involves following recipes and working efficiently. Many restaurants in the area need skilled line cooks.
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Laundry Presser
Average Salary: $30,000
Clean, press, and fold laundry for customers. This role requires attention to detail and knowledge of laundry equipment. Laundry services and dry cleaners hire pressers regularly.
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Server
Average Salary: $29,899
Serve food and drinks to customers in a restaurant. This job involves interacting with customers and taking orders. Many local dining establishments need servers.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $29,813
Clean and maintain rooms in hotels or private residences. This position requires thoroughness and a willingness to work well. Hotels and rental property management companies often need housekeepers.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Hickory, NC?

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Nomad Health
Average Salary: $92,804
Nomad Health is a healthcare staffing company. They work with healthcare facilities to connect them with qualified professionals.
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Centra Healthcare Solutions
Average Salary: $75,991
Centra Healthcare Solutions provides staffing services to healthcare facilities. They help match the right professionals with the right jobs.
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Medical Solutions
Average Salary: $72,414
Medical Solutions offers staffing services for healthcare workers. They work with hospitals and clinics to fill open positions.
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Saber Healthcare Group
Average Salary: $67,805
Saber Healthcare Group provides staffing for nursing and rehabilitation services. They help facilities find the right care for their patients.
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Frye Regional Medical Center
Average Salary: $62,221
Frye Regional Medical Center is a hospital that offers a range of medical services. They provide jobs for healthcare professionals.
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CVS Health
Average Salary: $59,535
CVS Health is a pharmacy and healthcare company. They provide a variety of healthcare services and job opportunities.
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Performance Foodservice
Average Salary: $57,587
Performance Foodservice provides food services to healthcare facilities, schools, and businesses. They offer job opportunities in food preparation and service.
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ProStaffing
Average Salary: $56,848
ProStaffing is a staffing agency. They help match professionals with jobs in various industries, including healthcare.
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Hickory Mechanical
Average Salary: $55,706
Hickory Mechanical provides mechanical services. They offer job opportunities in HVAC, plumbing, and electrical work.
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Partners Behavioral Health Management
Average Salary: $54,311
Partners Behavioral Health Management provides behavioral health services. They offer job opportunities in mental health and substance abuse treatment.
How does the cost of living in Hickory, NC compare to the national average?

Hickory, NC, provides a more affordable lifestyle compared to the nationwide average, which stands at 100. For housing, residents benefit from a cost of living index of 90, meaning they pay 10% less than the national average. This makes it a more budget-friendly option for those seeking home ownership or rental accommodations. Additionally, the cost for groceries, at an index of 98, remains close to the national average, indicating that essential food items are nearly as affordable as in other parts of the country.
Utilities in Hickory, NC, show a cost of living index of 95, reflecting a 5% savings compared to the national average. Transportation costs are also relatively lower, with an index of 92, meaning residents pay 8% less for getting around. Healthcare services, while still accessible, have an index of 88, indicating a 12% lower cost compared to the national average. Miscellaneous expenses also mirror the national average with an index of 95, showing a balanced cost for everyday items. Overall, Hickory offers a slightly lower cost of living in key areas, making it an attractive choice for those looking to manage their expenses effectively.



