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What is the average salary in Hickory, NC?

The average salary in Hickory, NC is $54,126 per year.

Hickory, North Carolina, offers a variety of salary opportunities for job seekers. The average yearly salary in the area is $54,126. This average gives a good starting point for understanding what people can expect to earn in different industries.


Several industries contribute to these salaries. The top-paying jobs include roles in management, business, and financial operations, with some individuals earning up to $145,000 a year. Other significant sectors include health care, professional and related services, and manufacturing. Each of these sectors offers competitive wages, which can support a comfortable lifestyle in Hickory.

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What are the best paying jobs in Hickory, NC?

In Hickory, NC, several top-paying jobs offer excellent career opportunities with competitive salaries. Nurse Practitioners lead the way with an average salary of $137,267, followed closely by Pharmacists at $133,088. Job seekers will find these positions in healthcare, alongside roles such as Behavior Analysts, who earn $103,424 annually. Beyond healthcare, high-paying positions include CDL Drivers at $93,944, Outside Sales Representatives at $88,038, and Occupational Therapists at $82,853. These roles provide varied career paths and financial rewards. Registered Nurses, General Managers, and Licensed Practical Nurses also offer stable incomes and valuable career growth, making Hickory an attractive place for job seekers.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Hickory, NC, highlighting Nurse Practitioner with the highest at $137,267 and Licensed Practical Nurse with the lowest at $59,370.
  1. Nurse Practitioner
    Average Salary: $137,267
    Working in healthcare, you provide primary and specialty care. You work in clinics, hospitals, and private practices. This role involves diagnosing, treating, and managing patients' health. Local hospitals, medical centers, and private clinics hire Nurse Practitioners.
    Find Nurse Practitioner jobs in Hickory, NC


  2. Pharmacist
    Average Salary: $133,088
    You fill prescriptions and ensure patients use medications safely. Working in pharmacies, you also provide health advice and manage pharmacy operations. Many local pharmacies and healthcare facilities hire pharmacists. This role requires strong knowledge of medications and patient care.
    Find Pharmacist jobs in Hickory, NC


  3. Behavior Analyst
    Average Salary: $103,424
    You assess and improve behavior through data-driven techniques. This role helps people with special needs achieve better life skills. Behavior analysts work in schools, clinics, and rehabilitation centers. They often collaborate with therapists and educators to create effective treatment plans.
    Find Behavior Analyst jobs in Hickory, NC


  4. CDL Driver
    Average Salary: $93,944
    Driving large vehicles across states is a key part of this job. You transport goods and materials. CDL drivers work for logistics companies and transportation firms. This role requires a Commercial Driver's License and adherence to safety regulations. It involves long hours and frequent travel.
    Find CDL Driver jobs in Hickory, NC


  5. Traveling Nurse
    Average Salary: $88,637
    You provide care in different locations, often on a temporary basis. This role offers variety and the chance to experience different healthcare settings. Travel nurses work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities. Flexibility and adaptability are key for this job.
    Find Traveling Nurse jobs in Hickory, NC


  6. Outside Sales Representative
    Average Salary: $88,038
    Selling products directly to customers is central to this role. You meet potential clients, present products, and close sales. This position involves a lot of travel and networking. Sales representatives work for various companies, from tech firms to consumer goods manufacturers.
    Find Outside Sales Representative jobs in Hickory, NC


  7. Occupational Therapist
    Average Salary: $82,853
    Helping patients recover from injuries or illnesses, you design treatment plans. This role focuses on improving daily living skills. Occupational therapists work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and schools. They collaborate with other healthcare professionals to help patients achieve their goals.
    Find Occupational Therapist jobs in Hickory, NC


  8. Registered Nurse
    Average Salary: $79,997
    You provide essential care to patients in various settings. Responsibilities include administering medications and monitoring health. Registered nurses work in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. This role demands strong communication skills and attention to detail.
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  9. General Manager
    Average Salary: $65,724
    Managing daily operations of a business is key for this role. You oversee staff, handle finances, and ensure smooth operations. General managers work in retail, hospitality, and other industries. Strong leadership and organizational skills are important for success.
    Find General Manager jobs in Hickory, NC


  10. Licensed Practical Nurse
    Average Salary: $59,370
    You provide basic patient care under the supervision of doctors and registered nurses. Tasks include taking vital signs and assisting with daily activities. LPNs work in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. This role requires empathy and strong communication skills.
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What are the best paying jobs in Hickory, NC without a degree?

In Hickory, NC, job seekers can find excellent opportunities in high-paying roles that do not need a college degree. For instance, a groundskeeper can earn an average salary of $37,926. This job involves maintaining the outdoor areas of properties, ensuring they look neat and clean. Loaders, who handle the movement of materials and goods, also earn a solid income of about $35,545 on average. Other well-paying jobs without a degree include server roles in restaurants, barista positions at coffee shops, and various housekeeping tasks. These roles offer competitive wages and can provide a good starting point for those looking to enter the workforce without extensive formal education.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Hickory, NC without a degree, highlighting Groundskeeper with the highest at $37,926 and Recreation Assistant with the lowest at $23,998.
  1. Groundskeeper
    Average Salary: $37,926
    This role involves maintaining the grounds of buildings and parks. Tasks include mowing lawns, pruning trees, and managing the grounds' overall appearance. Local parks and businesses seek reliable groundskeepers.
    Find Groundskeeper jobs in Hickory, NC


  2. Loader
    Average Salary: $35,545
    Loaders handle the unloading and loading of trucks. They ensure goods are moved efficiently. Many local warehouses and distribution centers hire loaders to keep operations smooth.
    Find Loader jobs in Hickory, NC


  3. Server
    Average Salary: $29,985
    Servers work in restaurants, taking orders and serving food. They must be friendly and efficient. Restaurants in the area look for servers who can deliver great service.
    Find Server jobs in Hickory, NC


  4. Barista
    Average Salary: $29,709
    Baristas work in coffee shops, making drinks and serving customers. They need to know different coffee types and brewing methods. Local coffee shops hire baristas to keep customers happy.
    Find Barista jobs in Hickory, NC


  5. Housekeeping
    Average Salary: $29,548
    Housekeepers clean rooms in hotels and motels. They make beds, tidy up, and ensure cleanliness. Many hospitality businesses need housekeepers to provide a clean environment.
    Find Housekeeping jobs in Hickory, NC


  6. Line Cook
    Average Salary: $29,107
    Line cooks prepare food quickly in restaurants. They work in fast-paced kitchens, following recipes. Restaurants and cafes hire line cooks to keep food coming out fast and fresh.
    Find Line Cook jobs in Hickory, NC


  7. Kitchen Team Member
    Average Salary: $28,778
    Kitchen team members help prepare meals in restaurants. They assist cooks and clean as needed. Many eateries look for dependable kitchen team members to support chefs.
    Find Kitchen Team Member jobs in Hickory, NC


  8. Dishwasher
    Average Salary: $28,684
    Dishwasher clean dishes, glasses, and utensils. They ensure the kitchen runs smoothly. Restaurants and cafes need dishwashers to keep everything clean and ready for service.
    Find Dishwasher jobs in Hickory, NC


  9. To Go Specialist
    Average Salary: $28,509
    To go specialists prepare orders for customers. They pack food and drinks for takeout. Many restaurants need To Go specialists to provide a convenient service.
    Find To Go Specialist jobs in Hickory, NC


  10. Recreation Assistant
    Average Salary: $23,998
    Recreation assistants plan and lead activities for youth. They work in community centers or parks. Local recreational programs hire assistants to engage kids and teens.
    Find Recreation Assistant jobs in Hickory, NC

Which companies offer the top salaries in Hickory, NC?

Job seekers in Hickory, NC, have several top companies to consider for their next career move. Corning Incorporated stands out with the highest average salary at $100,185. This company offers competitive compensation packages to attract top talent. Centra Healthcare Solutions follows closely with an average salary of $75,991, making it another excellent option for professionals seeking a good income. Other companies like Fountain Electric & Services LLC and Medical Solutions also provide solid salaries, with averages of $72,916 and $72,629, respectively. These companies offer strong financial benefits and opportunities for growth. Frye Regional Medical Center South Campus, CVS Health, and Performance Foodservice also offer attractive salaries, with averages ranging from $67,175 to $62,769. Walgreens and Catawba County Government provide salaries around $55,632 and $51,672, respectively, making them viable options for job seekers.
Graph displaying company salaries in Hickory, NC, highlighting Corning Incorporated with the highest at $100,185 and Catawba County Government with the lowest at $51,672.
  1. Corning Incorporated
    Average Salary: $100,185
    Corning Incorporated, a global leader in specialty glass and ceramics, offers innovative and high-paying opportunities. With a focus on technology and sustainability, Corning provides a competitive salary and benefits.


  2. Centra Healthcare Solutions
    Average Salary: $75,991
    Centra Healthcare Solutions provides healthcare staffing and recruiting services. The company values its employees and offers a solid salary along with a supportive work environment.


  3. Fountain Electric & Services LLC
    Average Salary: $72,916
    Fountain Electric & Services LLC specializes in electrical and mechanical services. They are committed to quality and employee satisfaction, offering a good salary for their skilled professionals.


  4. Medical Solutions
    Average Salary: $72,629
    Medical Solutions connects healthcare professionals with opportunities nationwide. They provide competitive salaries and support their employees' career growth.


  5. Saber Healthcare Group
    Average Salary: $68,211
    Saber Healthcare Group offers nursing and rehabilitation services. They value their staff and provide good compensation packages to attract top talent.


  6. Frye Regional Medical Center South Campus
    Average Salary: $67,175
    Frye Regional Medical Center South Campus is part of FryeCare, providing healthcare services. The center offers a solid salary and benefits for its healthcare professionals.


  7. CVS Health
    Average Salary: $62,769
    CVS Health is a leading health solutions company. They provide pharmacy, retail, and healthcare services. CVS offers competitive salaries and career development opportunities.


  8. Performance Foodservice
    Average Salary: $56,673
    Performance Foodservice supplies food and related products to restaurants and institutions. They offer a good salary and benefits for their employees.


  9. Walgreens
    Average Salary: $55,632
    Walgreens is one of the largest pharmacy retailers. They provide pharmacy and healthcare services with competitive pay for their staff.


  10. Catawba County Government
    Average Salary: $51,672
    Catawba County Government offers a range of public services. They provide a decent salary and benefits for their employees, supporting community needs.

How does the cost of living in Hickory, NC compare to the national average?

Hickory, NC, offers a cost of living below the nationwide average. This city has an overall cost of living index of 91, which is 9% lower than the national benchmark of 100. Housing in Hickory stands at 85, suggesting it is 15% cheaper than the average. Groceries cost slightly less than the national average at 92, while utilities and transportation are marginally above average at 95 and 98, respectively. Healthcare and miscellaneous expenses are also below the average, with indexes of 90 and 88.
Cost of living comparison graph for Hickory, NC vs. Nationwide: housing 15% lower, groceries 8% lower, utilities 5% lower, transportation 2% lower, healthcare 10% lower, miscellaneous 12% lower.

The cost of living in Hickory, North Carolina, offers a favorable comparison to the nationwide average, which is set at 100. Housing costs in Hickory are 15% lower than the national average, with an index value of 85. This means that residents can expect to spend less on rent or mortgage payments, making it more affordable for job seekers considering this area.


In other categories, Hickory also presents a relatively good deal. Groceries are priced 2% below the national average, with an index of 92. Utilities stand at 95, indicating only a 5% premium over the national average. Transportation costs are almost on par with the nationwide average at 98, reflecting minimal difference. Healthcare services are also slightly below average, with an index of 90, which is 10% cheaper than the national figure. Miscellaneous expenses in Hickory are 12% below average, with an index of 88. Overall, these figures suggest that living in Hickory can be a budget-friendly option for many individuals and families.

There are 976 job openings in Hickory, NC, today!

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Hickory, NC
976 Job Openings