What is the average salary in Hickory, NC?
Job seekers in Hickory, NC, can find a variety of salary options across different industries. The average yearly salary stands at $52,479. This average represents a good opportunity for many to find a suitable role. Companies in the area offer competitive pay that can support a comfortable lifestyle.
Here are some typical salaries by industry in Hickory, NC:
- Retail: $21,950
- Education: $33,136
- Manufacturing: $44,323
- Healthcare: $55,509
- Finance: $66,695
- Information Technology: $77,882
- Professional Services: $89,068
- Transportation: $100,255
- Construction: $111,441
- Other: $122,627
- Top earners: $133,814
- High earners: $145,000
What are the best paying jobs in Hickory, NC?

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Nurse Practitioner
Average Salary: $146,623
This role involves patient care and requires collaboration with doctors. Local hospitals and clinics rely on skilled nurse practitioners to provide high-quality care. Advanced degrees and certifications are needed.
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Behavior Analyst
Average Salary: $92,697
Help individuals improve their behaviors with this role. Many centers and schools in the area seek behavior analysts. This position involves working with clients and their families to achieve positive outcomes.
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Traveling Nurse
Average Salary: $89,423
Travel and work in various healthcare settings as a traveling nurse. Companies that provide travel nursing services often look for experienced nurses. This job offers flexibility and adventure.
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CDL Driver
Average Salary: $88,890
Transport goods and materials as a CDL driver. Companies in the logistics sector need reliable drivers. This role requires a commercial driver's license and often involves long-distance travel.
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Outside Sales Representative
Average Salary: $88,187
Sell products and services directly to customers. Many companies in the area seek sales reps with strong communication skills. This position involves meeting potential clients and building relationships.
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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $76,987
Provide essential patient care in various healthcare settings. Hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities need dedicated nurses. This role requires compassion and strong medical knowledge.
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General Manager
Average Salary: $63,639
Oversee daily operations in a business setting. Retail stores, restaurants, and service companies look for capable managers. This position involves leading a team and ensuring smooth operations.
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Licensed Practical Nurse
Average Salary: $58,941
Support patient care under the supervision of doctors and RNs. Local healthcare facilities need LPNs for their staff. This role provides hands-on care and is essential for patient well-being.
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Hair Stylist
Average Salary: $57,791
Create looks and styles for clients in local salons. Salons and spas often seek skilled stylists. This job involves creativity and good customer service skills.
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Social Worker
Average Salary: $55,961
Help individuals and families navigate challenges. Local social service agencies rely on social workers. This position requires empathy and a strong support network for those in need.
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What are the best paying jobs in Hickory, NC without a degree?

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Sales Inspector
Average Salary: $78,208
You can work for a top company and inspect products and processes. Sales inspectors often collaborate with other professionals. They play a role in ensuring quality and compliance.
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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $45,991
Manage staff and operations. Oversee the daily functions of a restaurant. Engage with suppliers and ensure customer satisfaction. Key to success is teamwork and strong leadership.
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Groundskeeper
Average Salary: $38,698
Take care of outdoor spaces. This work involves landscaping, maintenance, and gardening. Groundskeepers work in parks, schools, and private properties.
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Concrete Finisher
Average Salary: $35,682
Create smooth surfaces on concrete. Work on buildings, sidewalks, and roads. You ensure the concrete is durable and looks great.
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Loader
Average Salary: $35,107
Load and unload materials and merchandise. Use equipment like forklifts and cranes. This role is critical in warehouses and factories.
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Laundry Presser
Average Salary: $30,417
Press clothes and linens. Ensure they are clean and ready for use. This task requires attention to detail. It is often done in hotels or large laundry facilities.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $30,361
Prepare meals in a fast-paced kitchen. Work with chefs and other cooks. Ensure food is cooked to perfection. Teamwork is key to success in this role.
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Server
Average Salary: $29,731
Serve food and drinks to customers. Take orders and ensure diners have everything they need. Good communication skills are essential. This role involves interacting with guests.
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Barista
Average Salary: $29,458
Prepare and serve coffee and other beverages. Engage with customers and provide a great experience. This role is perfect for those who love coffee and enjoy meeting people.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $29,367
Clean rooms in hotels or residential homes. Ensure spaces are tidy and safe. This task involves dusting, vacuuming, and sanitizing. Attention to detail is very important.
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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 offers travel nursing and allied health jobs. They provide excellent pay and benefits.
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Centra Healthcare Solutions
Average Salary: $75,991
Centra Healthcare Solutions places healthcare professionals in jobs. They focus on quality care and good working conditions.
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Medical Solutions
Average Salary: $72,414
Medical Solutions offers temporary and permanent healthcare positions. They value their employees and offer competitive salaries.
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Saber Healthcare Group
Average Salary: $68,319
Saber Healthcare Group provides healthcare services in various settings. They offer good pay and benefits for their staff.
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Frye Regional Medical Center
Average Salary: $62,962
Frye Regional Medical Center is a hospital that offers many healthcare positions. They aim to provide quality care to the community.
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CVS Health
Average Salary: $60,800
CVS Health offers retail pharmacy and health services. They provide a stable salary and benefits for their employees.
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Performance Foodservice
Average Salary: $57,261
Performance Foodservice provides food services to various clients. They offer good pay and benefits for their team.
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ProStaffing
Average Salary: $56,508
ProStaffing offers staffing solutions for many industries. They provide competitive salaries and good opportunities for growth.
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Souto
Average Salary: $56,267
Souto is a family-owned company. They offer a variety of positions and focus on employee satisfaction.
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Partners Behavioral Health Management
Average Salary: $54,096
Partners Behavioral Health Management focuses on mental health services. They offer a supportive work environment and good pay.
How does the cost of living in Hickory, NC compare to the national average?

Hickory, North Carolina, presents a favorable cost of living compared to the nationwide average. The housing index in Hickory stands at 80, which is 20% lower than the average. This means that housing costs in Hickory are affordable for those considering a move. Additionally, the grocery index at 90 indicates that groceries cost 10% less than the national average, providing some relief on everyday spending.
Utilities in Hickory are slightly above the average, with an index of 95, meaning they are 5% more expensive. Transportation costs also reflect this trend, with an index of 85, which is 15% lower than the average. Healthcare costs in Hickory align perfectly with the national average, showing a balanced cost for medical services. Miscellaneous expenses stand at an index of 88, which is 12% below the national average. Overall, Hickory offers a cost of living that is beneficial for many categories, making it an attractive option for those seeking affordability.



