What is the average salary in Hickory, NC?
Hickory, NC, offers a range of salary opportunities for job seekers. The average yearly salary in the area is $51,897. This figure provides a good benchmark for understanding the earning potential in different sectors. Salaries vary based on the industry and the specific role.
Here are some common salary ranges in Hickory, NC:
- 23.42% of jobs earn around $22,000
- 25.52% of jobs earn around $33,182
- 13.53% of jobs earn around $44,364
- 10.23% of jobs earn around $55,545
- 6.66% of jobs earn around $66,727
- 6.31% of jobs earn around $77,909
- 4.46% of jobs earn around $89,091
- 1.94% of jobs earn around $100,273
- 1.32% of jobs earn around $111,455
- 0.86% of jobs earn around $122,636
- 0.76% of jobs earn around $133,818
- 0.00% of jobs earn around $145,000
What are the best paying jobs in Hickory, NC?

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Nurse Practitioner
Average Salary: $146,211
This role involves providing primary care and managing patient health. Nurse Practitioners work in clinics and hospitals, collaborating with doctors and other healthcare professionals. Key employers include local health centers and private practices.
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Behavior Analyst
Average Salary: $92,070
Behavior Analysts assess and develop treatment plans for individuals with behavioral challenges. They work in schools, clinics, and private practices, often partnering with families and educators. Notable employers include educational institutions and behavioral health organizations.
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Traveling Nurse
Average Salary: $89,378
Traveling Nurses provide care in various locations, often with a focus on short-term assignments. They work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities. Employers include travel nursing agencies and healthcare systems that need flexible staffing solutions.
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CDL Driver
Average Salary: $88,552
CDL Drivers transport goods and materials over long distances. They operate large trucks and must adhere to safety regulations. Key employers include logistics companies and freight transport firms. This role offers opportunities for travel and independence.
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Outside Sales Representative
Average Salary: $87,493
Outside Sales Representatives promote and sell products to businesses. They build relationships with clients and manage sales territories. Employers include manufacturing companies and sales agencies. This role combines travel with the chance to meet new people and earn commissions.
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Technical Project Lead
Average Salary: $84,378
Technical Project Leads oversee the development and implementation of technology projects. They coordinate teams and ensure projects meet deadlines. Employers include tech firms and software companies. This role requires strong leadership and technical skills.
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Insurance Agent
Average Salary: $81,183
Insurance Agents help clients find and manage insurance policies. They assess needs and recommend coverage options. Employers include insurance companies and independent agencies. This role involves customer interaction and problem-solving.
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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $76,035
Registered Nurses provide care to patients and assist doctors. They work in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. Employers include healthcare systems and private practices. This role is vital for patient health and well-being.
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Hazardous Materials Tanker Driver
Average Salary: $71,340
Hazardous Materials Tanker Drivers transport dangerous goods. They must follow strict safety protocols. Employers include logistics companies and transportation firms. This role requires attention to detail and adherence to regulations.
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General Manager
Average Salary: $62,432
General Managers oversee daily operations in businesses. They manage staff, budgets, and customer service. Employers include retail stores, restaurants, and hotels. This role involves leadership and strategic planning to ensure business success.
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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 the ability to communicate findings. Companies like ABC Manufacturing and XYZ Retail offer opportunities.
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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $45,084
Manage daily operations and staff in a restaurant. Oversee food quality and customer service. Work with local eateries such as The Hickory Diner and The Bistro.
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Groundskeeper
Average Salary: $39,167
Maintain the grounds of parks, schools, and other properties. Use tools to mow, trim, and plant. Opportunities exist with local government and private landscaping firms.
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Concrete Finisher
Average Salary: $35,682
Smooth and finish concrete surfaces. Work on construction sites to ensure quality. Companies like Hickory Construction and Local Builders hire for this role.
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Portable Sawyer
Average Salary: $34,736
Cut and process wood in forests. Operate saws and other tools. Work with local forestry companies and lumber mills.
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Loader
Average Salary: $34,557
Load and unload goods from trucks. Use forklifts and other equipment. Opportunities are available in warehouses and distribution centers.
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Meat Cutter
Average Salary: $32,692
Cut and package meat for sale. Work in grocery stores and butcher shops. Companies like Hickory Market and Local Butcher offer positions.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $30,300
Prepare food in a fast-paced kitchen. Follow recipes and cook in large quantities. Work in restaurants and cafes around the city.
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Laundry Presser
Average Salary: $30,000
Press and fold laundry for customers. Work in laundromats or hotels. Opportunities exist with local laundry services and hospitality businesses.
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Server
Average Salary: $29,962
Serve food and drinks to customers. Take orders and provide excellent service. Work in a variety of dining establishments.
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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 leading healthcare staffing company. They connect healthcare professionals with top-level facilities across the country.
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Centra Healthcare Solutions
Average Salary: $75,991
Centra Healthcare Solutions offers staffing services for healthcare professionals. They focus on providing quality care and support to patients.
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Medical Solutions
Average Salary: $72,247
Medical Solutions is a staffing company that specializes in healthcare. They help match healthcare professionals with jobs in various facilities.
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Saber Healthcare Group
Average Salary: $67,575
Saber Healthcare Group provides staffing and healthcare services. They are known for their commitment to quality care and employee satisfaction.
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Frye Regional Medical Center
Average Salary: $61,422
Frye Regional Medical Center is a healthcare facility offering a range of medical services. They focus on providing excellent patient care and support.
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Performance Foodservice
Average Salary: $57,535
Performance Foodservice provides food and nutrition services. They work with schools, hospitals, and other institutions to ensure quality meals.
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CVS Health
Average Salary: $57,223
CVS Health is a leading healthcare company. They offer a wide range of health services, including pharmacy, insurance, and wellness programs.
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ProStaffing
Average Salary: $56,190
ProStaffing is a staffing agency that connects job seekers with employment opportunities. They focus on matching the right people with the right jobs.
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Hickory Mechanical
Average Salary: $55,913
Hickory Mechanical provides services for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. They are known for their quality work and customer service.
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Partners Behavioral Health Management
Average Salary: $54,587
Partners Behavioral Health Management offers behavioral health services. They focus on providing support and treatment for mental health and substance abuse issues.
How does the cost of living in Hickory, NC compare to the national average?

The cost of living index in Hickory, North Carolina, presents a favorable comparison to the nationwide average, which is set at 100. Housing costs in Hickory stand at 86, indicating that residents can expect to pay about 14% less than the national average for housing. This lower housing index can be a significant advantage for job seekers looking to maximize their budget.
In addition to housing, other cost categories in Hickory also show a lower cost of living. Groceries, for example, have an index of 92, meaning they are 8% less expensive than the national average. Utilities are slightly higher at 95, but still only 5% above the average. Transportation costs are at 94, which is 6% above the national average. Healthcare costs are at 90, indicating a 10% savings compared to the nationwide average. Miscellaneous expenses, with an index of 88, show an even more significant saving of 12%. Overall, Hickory offers a cost of living that is generally lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for those seeking to manage their expenses effectively.



