Charlotte, NC vs Hickory, NC: Cost of Living Comparison
Hickory has the lower overall cost of living. (100 = US national average)
Category-by-Category Comparison
| Category | Charlotte | Hickory | Cheaper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living | 102 | 83 | Hickory |
| Housing | 101 ($1,053) | 71 ($683) | Hickory |
| Transportation | 102 ($3.50) | 102 ($3.50) | Tie |
| Food & groceries | 105 ($431) | 85 ($349) | Hickory |
| Utilities | 101 ($182) | 86 ($128) | Hickory |
| Healthcare | 101 ($131) | 86 ($92) | Hickory |
| Median annual wage | 99 ($47,970) | 99 ($47,970) | Tie |
Index 100 = US national average. Lower = cheaper. For wage, higher = better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Charlotte, NC or Hickory, NC cheaper to live in?
Hickory, NC is cheaper overall by about 19 index points (Charlotte, NC: 102, Hickory, NC: 83; 100 = US national average).
What salary do I need in Charlotte, NC vs Hickory, NC?
A single adult needs roughly $35,700/year in Charlotte, NC and $29,050/year in Hickory, NC to cover basic living costs.