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HICKORY, N.C. (WGHP) — Hickory, North Carolina has been ranked as the cheapest place to live in the United States, according to U.S. News and World Report.
Primarily located in Catawba County, the western North Carolina city is located about an hour away from Asheville, Charlotte and Winston-Salem.The median cost of a house in Hickory is $219,950. When compared to the $383,883 national cost, a house in Hickory can be had at 57% of the median cost in the United States.
The median monthly rent in Hickory is $743 and the unemployment rate is 8.2%. The average annual salary is $44,470.
Several high-profile figures are from the area. Including three-time World Series champion and 2014 World Series MVP Madison Bumgarner and University of Tennessee head men’s basketball coach Rick Barnes. To read me click here.
Caldwell County ranked 20th out of North Carolina’s 100 counties for wage growth in 2023. Since 2015, wages have grown an impressive 51.5%.
Explore the Caldwell County Itinerary for food, shopping, highlights, lodging and adventures! We invite locals and visitors to delight in the journey and the destination.
Life in Caldwell County can be full of adventure. Spend the day exploring parks, mountains, whitewater rafting, kayaking, hiking and biking.
CCED works closely with CCC&TI and local manufacturers to meet the workforce needs of employers.
NC has increased production of renewables by nearly 52%, double the average of all 50 states
Whether we’re celebrating art, butterflies, blackberries, BBQ or wine, the calendar is full of Southern charm.
Powered by an economy that has hit its stride and turbocharged by a track record of innovation, Caldwell County is the best of NC.
Caldwell County has the most extensive collection of permanent public outdoor sculptures per capita in the U.S. Our annual Sculpture Celebration is the largest in the South.
Caldwell County would like to recognize our county's manufacturers during Manufacturing Week, Oct 2nd-Oct 6th, 2026. Below is a list of local events in support of our manufacturing industry.
Golf Tournament - Country Club - Tuesday, Oct 3rd - 8am to 4pm
Business Luncheon - Restaurant - Wednesday, Oct 4th - 11:30am to 1:30pm
Facility Tours for HS Students - Thursday, Oct 5th - 8am to 4pm
Explore scenic vistas, historical sites, art, breweries, wineries, eateries and more along this world famous route.
Record numbers of new businesses and industries have registered in Caldwell: 250-500 each year since 2018. The CCC&TI Business Center is ready to assist.
Move right into one of our existing manufacturing buildings. The infrastructure is in place and a trained workforce is ready.
The Blue Ridge foothills, Pisgah National Forest and Wilson Creek are our playgrounds for biking, off-roading, watersports, hiking, hunting, fishing and camping.
This is where the event information goes
Caldwell County is building on its historic manufacturing legacy while embracing the industries of tomorrow. With affordability, a strategic location, and a skilled workforce, the county is a prime destination for business growth and investment.
