What is the average salary in Hickory, NC?
Hickory, NC, offers a variety of job opportunities with competitive salaries. The average yearly salary stands at $53,101. This average reflects a mix of different industries, each contributing to the local economy in unique ways.
Key industries in Hickory include manufacturing, healthcare, and retail, each offering diverse salary ranges. For example, top earners in manufacturing can make over $133,000 per year. The healthcare sector provides salaries starting at $22,000 and can go up to $144,000 for specialized roles. Retail jobs typically start at around $22,000, offering growth opportunities as well. These varied salary ranges make Hickory an attractive place for job seekers looking for better financial opportunities.
What are the best paying jobs in Hickory, NC?

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Nurse Practitioner
Average Salary: $145,413
This role provides essential healthcare services. Professionals often work in clinics and hospitals. The role is important for diagnosing and treating patients.
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Behavior Analyst
Average Salary: $96,026
Analysts work to improve behavior in patients. They often collaborate with schools and healthcare providers. This role focuses on creating personalized treatment plans.
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CDL Driver
Average Salary: $91,219
Drivers transport goods over long distances. Companies often hire drivers for logistics and delivery services. It is a crucial job for the supply chain.
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Outside Sales Representative
Average Salary: $90,292
Sales representatives promote products to businesses. They often visit clients and negotiate deals. This job involves strong communication and negotiation skills.
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Traveling Nurse
Average Salary: $87,465
These nurses travel to different locations to provide care. They work in various healthcare settings. Flexibility and adaptability are key traits for this role.
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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $77,752
RNs provide essential patient care. They work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities. This role requires strong attention to detail and compassion.
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General Manager
Average Salary: $65,183
Managers oversee daily operations of businesses. They work in various industries, including retail and hospitality. Leadership and organizational skills are crucial for success.
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Licensed Practical Nurse
Average Salary: $59,286
LPNs provide basic patient care. They work in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and clinics. This role is vital for supporting doctors and RNs.
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Hair Stylist
Average Salary: $57,784
Stylists create hairstyles for clients. They work in salons and spas. This role combines creativity with customer service.
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Social Worker
Average Salary: $57,145
Social workers help individuals and families. They often work in schools, hospitals, and community centers. This role focuses on improving lives and providing support.
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What are the best paying jobs in Hickory, NC without a degree?

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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $47,011
Lead a team in a bustling restaurant. Oversee kitchen operations and customer service. Work for establishments like Cracker Barrel or The Waffle Shop.
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Groundskeeper
Average Salary: $38,540
Maintain parks and recreational areas. Use tools to ensure the grounds are clean and safe. Work with local government or landscape companies.
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Loader
Average Salary: $35,187
Move products around a warehouse. Operate machinery safely. Work with companies needing goods moved efficiently.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $30,097
Prepare food quickly in a fast-paced kitchen. Follow recipes and kitchen rules. Work in places like diners or fast-food chains.
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Barista
Average Salary: $29,618
Make coffee and other drinks for customers. Maintain cleanliness in a café. Work for places like Starbucks or local coffee shops.
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Server
Average Salary: $29,497
Take orders and serve food to customers. Ensure they have a pleasant dining experience. Work in restaurants and diners around the area.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $29,459
Clean and maintain rooms in hotels or motels. Ensure guests have a comfortable stay. Work with places like Holiday Inn or Comfort Suites.
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Dishwasher
Average Salary: $28,500
Clean dishes and utensils. Keep the kitchen clean. Work in restaurants or cafes needing help with dishwashing.
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Kitchen Team Member
Average Salary: $28,094
Help in all areas of the kitchen. Assist cooks and other kitchen staff. Work in busy restaurants needing extra hands.
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To Go Specialist
Average Salary: $28,012
Prepare food for customers to take away. Ensure orders are correct and ready on time. Work at fast-food places or diners.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Hickory, NC?

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Centra Healthcare Solutions
Average Salary: $75,991
Centra Healthcare Solutions offers a range of medical staffing services. They provide jobs for healthcare professionals like nurses and therapists.
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Fountain Services LLC
Average Salary: $71,192
Fountain Services LLC provides janitorial and maintenance services. They work with many businesses and organizations to keep their facilities clean.
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Medical Solutions
Average Salary: $70,148
Medical Solutions helps healthcare providers find temporary job opportunities. They connect talented professionals with various medical facilities.
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Saber Healthcare Group
Average Salary: $68,037
Saber Healthcare Group operates nursing homes and long-term care facilities. They provide care to the elderly and those needing special medical attention.
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Frye Regional Medical Center
Average Salary: $64,516
Frye Regional Medical Center is a hospital offering many healthcare services. They provide emergency care, surgery, and various medical specialties.
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CVS Health
Average Salary: $59,738
CVS Health runs a pharmacy chain and health services company. They provide prescription drugs, health insurance, and other healthcare products.
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ProStaffing
Average Salary: $57,082
ProStaffing is a staffing agency that helps companies find temporary workers. They connect businesses with skilled professionals for short-term needs.
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Performance Foodservice
Average Salary: $56,648
Performance Foodservice supplies food to restaurants, hospitals, and schools. They provide ingredients and catering services to meet different needs.
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Partners Behavioral Health Management
Average Salary: $53,444
Partners Behavioral Health Management provides mental health services. They offer care and support for those dealing with emotional and psychological issues.
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BAYADA Home Health Care
Average Salary: $53,075
BAYADA Home Health Care offers home care services. They provide nursing, therapy, and other healthcare services in patients' homes.
How does the cost of living in Hickory, NC compare to the national average?

Job seekers considering a move to Hickory, North Carolina, will find the cost of living index offers a mixture of advantages and considerations. Compared to the nationwide average, Hickory's cost of living stands at 93. This percentage indicates that overall, residents of Hickory experience a cost of living slightly below the national average of 100. Specifically, housing costs in Hickory are at 85, which means they are 15% lower than the national average. This reduction can be particularly appealing for those seeking more affordable housing.
In other areas, Hickory matches or slightly exceeds the national average. For example, groceries cost 95 in Hickory, only 5% lower than the national average. Utilities and transportation also hover close to the national average, with indexes of 90 and 95 respectively. Healthcare costs align perfectly with the national index at 100, ensuring no extra burden in this critical area. Miscellaneous costs are at 90, which again is slightly below the national average. This balanced distribution of costs makes Hickory an attractive option for those looking to manage their expenses effectively while maintaining a good quality of life.



