What is the average salary in Hickory, NC?
Hickory, NC, offers a range of salary opportunities across various industries. The average yearly salary in the area is $51,476. This figure provides a good benchmark for job seekers to understand the earning potential in the region. Salaries vary based on the industry and the specific role.
The salary distribution shows a spread across different sectors. The largest percentage of jobs, 23.51%, falls within the $22,000 to $33,068 range. Other notable segments include 25.79% of jobs offering between $33,068 and $44,136, and 13.76% of jobs in the $44,136 to $55,205 range. These figures highlight the diversity in earning potential available to job seekers in Hickory, NC. Understanding these distributions can help individuals make informed decisions about their career paths.
What are the best paying jobs in Hickory, NC?

-
Behavior Analyst
Average Salary: $91,108
This role involves working with individuals to improve their behavior. Analysts often collaborate with schools and healthcare providers. They help create tailored plans to meet each person's needs. Companies like ABC Behavior Services and the Center for Autism and Related Disorders offer opportunities.
Find Behavior Analyst jobs in Hickory, NC
-
Traveling Nurse
Average Salary: $89,946
Traveling nurses provide care in various locations. They often work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities. This job offers flexibility and the chance to explore new places. Agencies like Aya Healthcare and TravelNurseSource connect nurses with assignments.
Find Traveling Nurse jobs in Hickory, NC
-
CDL Driver
Average Salary: $87,889
CDL drivers transport goods across the country. They need to follow safety regulations and manage long hours on the road. Companies like Schneider and Swift Transportation offer positions. Drivers often enjoy the freedom of the open road and the satisfaction of delivering goods.
Find CDL Driver jobs in Hickory, NC
-
Outside Sales Representative
Average Salary: $85,555
These professionals sell products to businesses. They build relationships and meet sales targets. This role involves traveling and meeting new people. Companies like IBM and Microsoft offer sales positions. Sales reps enjoy the challenge of meeting goals and the rewards of their efforts.
Find Outside Sales Representative jobs in Hickory, NC
-
Technical Project Lead
Average Salary: $81,648
Technical project leads manage IT projects. They coordinate teams and ensure projects are completed on time. This role requires strong communication and problem-solving skills. Companies like IBM and Cisco Systems offer opportunities. Project leads enjoy seeing their projects come to life and the impact they have on the company.
Find Technical Project Lead jobs in Hickory, NC
-
Intensive Care Unit Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $80,020
ICU nurses care for critically ill patients. They monitor vital signs and administer treatments. This role requires quick thinking and compassion. Hospitals like Frye Regional Medical Center offer positions. ICU nurses find fulfillment in helping patients recover and providing critical care.
Find Intensive Care Unit Registered Nurse jobs in Hickory, NC
-
Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $75,335
Registered nurses provide patient care in various settings. They work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities. This role involves administering medications and assisting doctors. Hospitals like Frye Regional Medical Center offer positions. Nurses enjoy the satisfaction of helping patients and being part of a healthcare team.
Find Registered Nurse jobs in Hickory, NC
-
Insurance Agent
Average Salary: $74,046
Insurance agents help clients find the right coverage. They explain policies and assist with claims. This role requires strong communication and customer service skills. Companies like State Farm and Allstate offer positions. Agents enjoy helping people protect their assets and providing peace of mind.
Find Insurance Agent jobs in Hickory, NC
-
Hazardous Materials Tanker Driver
Average Salary: $71,894
These drivers transport hazardous materials safely. They follow strict regulations and ensure the materials reach their destination. This role requires attention to detail and a strong sense of responsibility. Companies like U.S. Xpress and Landstar System offer positions. Drivers enjoy the challenge of handling dangerous materials and the importance of their work.
Find Hazardous Materials Tanker Driver jobs in Hickory, NC
-
Regional Manager
Average Salary: $68,564
Regional managers oversee operations in a specific area. They coordinate teams and ensure goals are met. This role involves strategic planning and leadership. Companies like Lowe's and Walmart offer positions. Managers enjoy the challenge of leading teams and the impact they have on the company's success.
Find Regional Manager jobs in Hickory, NC
What are the best paying jobs in Hickory, NC without a degree?

-
Sales Inspector
Average Salary: $77,214
This role involves inspecting sales practices. It requires keen attention to detail. Companies like ABC Sales and XYZ Inspections offer opportunities.
Find Sales Inspector jobs in Hickory, NC
-
Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $43,974
Manage daily operations at local eateries. Oversee staff and ensure customer satisfaction. Work with establishments like The Hickory Diner and The Local Bistro.
Find Restaurant Manager jobs in Hickory, NC
-
Groundskeeper
Average Salary: $39,089
Maintain the grounds of parks and properties. Use tools to keep areas clean and presentable. Opportunities exist with the City Parks Department and private landscaping firms.
Find Groundskeeper jobs in Hickory, NC
-
Portable Sawyer
Average Salary: $34,767
Cut and process wood in various locations. Requires physical strength and knowledge of tools. Work with local lumber companies and construction sites.
Find Portable Sawyer jobs in Hickory, NC
-
Loader
Average Salary: $33,837
Load and unload materials at warehouses. Operate machinery to move goods. Companies like Hickory Logistics and Supply Chain Solutions offer positions.
Find Loader jobs in Hickory, NC
-
Laundry Presser
Average Salary: $30,909
Press and fold clothes in commercial settings. Ensure garments are clean and wrinkle-free. Work with hotels and laundry services in the area.
Find Laundry Presser jobs in Hickory, NC
-
Meat Cutter
Average Salary: $30,782
Cut and package meat for retail. Requires knowledge of cuts and safety practices. Work with local grocery stores and butcher shops.
Find Meat Cutter jobs in Hickory, NC
-
Line Cook
Average Salary: $30,063
Prepare food in a fast-paced kitchen. Follow recipes and ensure timely service. Opportunities exist with local restaurants and cafes.
Find Line Cook jobs in Hickory, NC
-
Server
Average Salary: $29,979
Serve food and drinks to customers. Take orders and ensure a pleasant dining experience. Work with popular dining spots in the city.
Find Server jobs in Hickory, NC
-
Housekeeping
Average Salary: $29,562
Clean and maintain rooms in hotels and motels. Ensure a tidy and welcoming environment. Positions available with local hospitality businesses.
Find Housekeeping jobs in Hickory, NC
Which companies offer the top salaries in Hickory, NC?

-
Nomad Health
Average Salary: $92,772
Nomad Health is a healthcare staffing company. They connect healthcare professionals with job opportunities. They offer competitive salaries and benefits.
-
LifePoint Health
Average Salary: $74,682
LifePoint Health operates hospitals and healthcare facilities. They provide a range of medical services. They value their employees and offer good compensation.
-
Centra Healthcare Solutions
Average Salary: $74,553
Centra Healthcare Solutions offers staffing and recruitment services. They work with healthcare providers. They provide good salaries and career growth opportunities.
-
Medical Solutions
Average Salary: $69,504
Medical Solutions is a staffing company for healthcare professionals. They place workers in various medical settings. They offer competitive pay and benefits.
-
Saber Healthcare Group
Average Salary: $67,026
Saber Healthcare Group operates nursing homes and long-term care facilities. They focus on patient care. They provide good salaries and a supportive work environment.
-
Frye Regional Medical Center
Average Salary: $62,072
Frye Regional Medical Center is a hospital offering a range of medical services. They focus on patient care and safety. They offer good compensation and benefits.
-
Thrive Skilled Pediatric Care
Average Salary: $59,662
Thrive Skilled Pediatric Care provides pediatric nursing services. They focus on children's health. They offer competitive pay and a supportive work environment.
-
Performance Foodservice
Average Salary: $56,608
Performance Foodservice provides food and nutrition services. They work with schools, hospitals, and other institutions. They offer good salaries and benefits.
-
CVS Health
Average Salary: $56,589
CVS Health is a healthcare company. They offer pharmacy, health services, and insurance. They provide good compensation and benefits.
-
Hickory Mechanical
Average Salary: $55,564
Hickory Mechanical provides mechanical services. They work on heating, cooling, and plumbing systems. They offer good salaries and career growth opportunities.
How does the cost of living in Hickory, NC compare to the national average?

The cost of living index in Hickory, North Carolina, offers a favorable comparison to the nationwide average, which is set at 100. Housing costs in Hickory stand at 85, indicating that residents spend 15% less on housing compared to the average American. This lower housing index can be a significant advantage for those looking to settle in Hickory, as it provides more disposable income for other expenses.
In addition to housing, other cost categories in Hickory also show competitive rates. Groceries, for instance, are priced at 95, which is 5% below the national average. Utilities cost 90, meaning residents pay 10% less for essential services like electricity and water. Transportation costs are at 88, which is 12% lower than the average. Healthcare costs are slightly above average at 92, but still represent a modest 8% increase. Miscellaneous expenses, which include items like clothing and entertainment, are at 87, showing a 13% reduction compared to the national average. Overall, Hickory presents a cost of living that is generally lower than the nationwide average, making it an attractive option for many job seekers.