Hickory vs Raleigh: Veterinary Technologist and Technician Salary (2026)
Compare veterinary technologist and technician salaries between Hickory, NC and Raleigh, NC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Hickory, NC | Raleigh, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $47,549 | $53,003▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $22.86 | $25.48▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $37,358 | $39,162▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $39,499 | $42,253▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $50,450 | $55,071▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $58,289 | $63,110▲ |
| Total Employed | 60 | 680▲ |
Verdict
Raleigh, NC offers better overall compensation for veterinary technologists and technicians, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Hickory.
The salary gap between Hickory and Raleigh is $5,454 (11.47%). Raleigh's median is +6.04% compared to the US national median of $49,986.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Hickory spans $20,931,Raleigh spans $23,948. Raleigh has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced veterinary technologist and technicians.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Raleigh ($53,998 effective) pays 0.49% more than Hickory ($53,736 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Hickory if…
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Raleigh if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($53,003/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($63,110)
- ✓Larger job market (680 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $53,998)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinary technologist and technician salaries in Hickory grew 26.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 39.6% growth in Raleigh over the same period.
Hickory, NC
$35,530 (2019) → $45,070 (2025)
Raleigh, NC
$36,000 (2019) → $50,240 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Hickory, NC
Raleigh, NC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinary technologist and technicians more: Hickory or Raleigh?
What is the hourly rate difference between Hickory and Raleigh?
Should I relocate from Hickory to Raleigh as a veterinary technologist and technician?
What do entry-level veterinary technologist and technicians earn in Hickory vs Raleigh?
Related Comparisons
Written by Jordan Lee, CVT
Career Analyst
Jordan has 10 years of experience in veterinary technology. They specialize in emergency care. Jordan has worked in both clinic and hospital settings.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 5.50% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Jordan Lee, CVT, a licensed veterinary technologist and technician with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov