Laborers and Freight, Stock, and Material Movers, Hand Salary in Hickory, NC

In Hickory, NC, laborers and freight, stock, and material movers who work by hand earn a median annual salary of $36,420, which translates to an hourly wage of approximately $17.51. This figure is slightly below the national median salary for this occupation, which stands at $38,940. When compared to the local area's median household income of $60,255, it becomes evident that these workers earn significantly less than the average household in Hickory. This disparity underscores the economic challenges faced by those in labor-intensive positions relative to other occupations within the community. Despite a relatively low local unemployment rate of 3.60%, the earnings for this occupation remain modest compared to broader income statistics.

Entry-level workers in this field generally earn towards the lower end of the pay spectrum, with salaries starting around $29,500 at the 10th percentile and increasing to approximately $33,740 at the 25th percentile. Conversely, experienced laborers can expect earnings closer to or exceeding the 75th percentile mark of $40,530, with top earners reaching as high as $46,410 at the 90th percentile. The difference in pay between entry-level and seasoned workers is largely driven by factors such as experience, skill level, physical capability, and familiarity with industry-specific tasks. Additionally, those who work for larger companies or in roles that require specialized skills may command higher wages due to increased demand and responsibility. These elements collectively contribute to the variance seen across different levels of experience within this occupation.