What is the average salary in Hickory, NC?
Hickory, NC, offers a range of job opportunities with competitive salaries. The average yearly salary in the area is $51,724. This figure reflects a diverse job market with various industries contributing to the local economy. Many job seekers find that salaries in Hickory align well with the cost of living, making it a favorable place to work.
The salary distribution in Hickory shows a broad spectrum of income levels. The most common salary range is around $33,182 to $44,364. This range covers many positions in retail, healthcare, and manufacturing. Higher-paying jobs, such as those in management and specialized fields, can reach up to $145,000 annually. This variety ensures that job seekers can find roles that match their skills and career goals.
What are the best paying jobs in Hickory, NC?

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Nurse Practitioner
Average Salary: $141,577
This role involves providing primary and specialty care. They work in clinics, hospitals, and private practices. Many healthcare facilities in the area offer competitive benefits.
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Behavior Analyst
Average Salary: $91,276
They assess and improve behavioral health. They often work with schools, clinics, and private practices. Many organizations in the area value their expertise and offer growth opportunities.
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Traveling Nurse
Average Salary: $89,289
Travel nurses provide care in various locations. They work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities. Many employers offer travel allowances and housing stipends.
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CDL Driver
Average Salary: $88,318
They transport goods and materials. They drive trucks and follow safety regulations. Many companies in the area offer training and benefits.
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Outside Sales Representative
Average Salary: $87,909
They sell products and services to businesses. They build relationships and meet sales targets. Many firms in the area offer competitive commissions and bonuses.
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Technical Project Lead
Average Salary: $82,735
They manage tech projects and teams. They ensure projects are completed on time and within budget. Many tech companies in the area value their leadership skills.
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Intensive Care Unit Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $80,281
They care for critically ill patients. They work in hospitals and intensive care units. Many employers offer excellent benefits and opportunities for advancement.
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Insurance Agent
Average Salary: $79,994
They help clients find the right insurance. They assess needs and provide policy recommendations. Many agencies in the area offer training and support.
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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $76,108
They provide patient care and support. They work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings. Many employers offer benefits and career advancement.
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Hazardous Materials Tanker Driver
Average Salary: $71,640
They transport hazardous materials safely. They follow strict regulations and safety protocols. Many companies offer training and competitive pay.
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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
This role involves inspecting and evaluating the quality of products. It requires attention to detail and strong communication skills. Companies like ABC Manufacturing and XYZ Retail offer opportunities.
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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $44,275
Manage daily operations and ensure customer satisfaction. Oversee staff and handle finances. Local eateries such as The Gourmet Bistro and The Cozy Corner seek experienced managers.
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Groundskeeper
Average Salary: $39,252
Maintain the grounds of properties. This includes landscaping, gardening, and general upkeep. Companies like Green Thumb Landscaping and City Parks Department offer positions.
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Concrete Finisher
Average Salary: $35,682
Prepare and finish concrete surfaces. This role requires physical strength and attention to detail. Local firms like BuildRight Construction and Skyline Builders are hiring.
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Portable Sawyer
Average Salary: $34,736
Operate portable sawmills to cut logs into lumber. This job requires knowledge of machinery and safety protocols. Companies like TimberTech and Sawmill Solutions offer opportunities.
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Loader
Average Salary: $34,326
Load and unload materials from trucks and storage areas. This role requires physical strength and teamwork. Companies like Logistics Inc. and Supply Chain Solutions are hiring.
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Meat Cutter
Average Salary: $32,271
Cut and package meat products. This job requires precision and knowledge of meat cuts. Local grocery stores and butcher shops are looking for skilled workers.
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Laundry Presser
Average Salary: $30,417
Press, fold, and iron clothing and linens. This role requires attention to detail and a neat appearance. Hotels and laundry services are hiring for this position.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $30,227
Prepare ingredients and cook food in a fast-paced kitchen environment. This role requires strong multitasking skills. Restaurants like The Grill House and The Diner are seeking cooks.
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Server
Average Salary: $29,843
Serve food and beverages to customers. This role requires good customer service skills and the ability to work under pressure. Local restaurants and cafes are hiring servers.
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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 connect healthcare providers with facilities in need. They offer competitive pay and benefits.
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Centra Healthcare Solutions
Average Salary: $75,614
Centra Healthcare Solutions provides staffing services for healthcare facilities. They focus on quality care and employee satisfaction. They offer a good salary and benefits.
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Medical Solutions
Average Salary: $72,057
Medical Solutions is a staffing company for healthcare professionals. They offer travel and permanent positions. They provide good pay and benefits.
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Saber Healthcare Group
Average Salary: $67,370
Saber Healthcare Group operates nursing homes and rehabilitation centers. They focus on patient care and employee well-being. They offer a decent salary.
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Frye Regional Medical Center
Average Salary: $62,087
Frye Regional Medical Center is a healthcare provider. They offer a range of medical services. They provide a good salary and benefits.
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Performance Foodservice
Average Salary: $57,132
Performance Foodservice provides food services to schools, hospitals, and other institutions. They focus on quality and service. They offer a fair salary.
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CVS Health
Average Salary: $56,984
CVS Health is a healthcare company. They offer pharmacy, health services, and insurance. They provide a good salary and benefits.
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Hickory Mechanical
Average Salary: $55,996
Hickory Mechanical provides HVAC services. They focus on quality and customer service. They offer a fair salary.
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Partners Behavioral Health Management
Average Salary: $54,855
Partners Behavioral Health Management provides behavioral health services. They focus on patient care and employee well-being. They offer a decent salary.
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ProStaffing
Average Salary: $53,688
ProStaffing is a staffing company that provides healthcare professionals. They offer travel and permanent positions. They offer a fair salary.
How does the cost of living in Hickory, NC compare to the national average?

The cost of living index in Hickory, North Carolina, shows a favorable comparison to the nationwide average, which is set at 100. Housing costs in Hickory stand at 86, indicating that residents spend 14% less on housing compared to the national average. This lower housing cost can be a significant advantage for those looking to settle in Hickory, as it provides more disposable income for other expenses.
In other areas, Hickory also presents competitive costs. Groceries cost 92, which is 8% below the national average. Utilities are slightly above average at 99, showing minimal difference. Transportation costs are at 95, which is 5% less than the national average. Healthcare costs mirror the national average at 95, offering no significant savings or additional costs. Miscellaneous expenses are at 91, which is 9% below the national average. Overall, Hickory offers a cost-effective living environment with several areas below the national average.



