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Don't Sign the Lease Until You Understand These Clauses
One word in your lease can cost you hundreds or save you from a nightmare. Here's how to turn legalese into clear decisions before you sign.
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What to Know About
Living in 28603
Hickory is an ideal location at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains along the shores of the Catawba River. Hickory is a three-time All-America City recognized by National Geographic Travel as one of the Best Small Cities in America. From its history and beauty to a very welcoming community, it offers a range of cultural activities, including the Hickory Museum of Art, the Hickory Community Theatre, the Western Piedmont Symphony, and the Catawba Science Center. Education is a priority in Hickory, with the Lenoir-Rhyne University and Catawba Valley Community College.
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking and camping at the nearby South Mountains State Park, kayaking and fishing at Lake Hickory, or walking and biking along the Riverbend Park and Hickory Greenway. Many festivals and events are happening during the year, including the Oktoberfest, the Hickory Hops Beer Festival, and the Southern Spring Home and Garden Show. Hickory is well known for its delectable farm-to-table restaurants and eclectic downtown shops.
Hickory is a great place to live where you can experience a wonderful mix of small-town charm and modern amenities, indulge in delicious Southern cuisine and be a part of a close-knit community that takes pride in its heritage.
Rental Market Trends
Hickory, NC
As of August 2025, Hickory's rental market is competitive, with strong renter demand causing quick leasing times for well-priced units. Hickory's average rent is 26.0% ($409) lower than the North Carolina average of $1,573 and 35.0% ($626) lower than the U.S. average of $1,790.
Average Rent
$1,164
Monthly ChangeMonth Over Month Change
1.4% ($17)
Yearly ChangeYear Over Year Change
21.8% ($324)
Avg. Days on MarketAverage Days on Market
39
| Unit Type | Average Rent | Monthly ChangeMonth Over Month Change | Yearly ChangeYear Over Year Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Bed | $1,033 | 6.1% ($67) | 3.7% ($40) |
| 2 Beds | $1,231 | 1.8% ($22) | 3.4% ($41) |
| 3 Beds | $1,582 | 5.1% ($85) | 9.5% ($166) |
| Nearby Cities | Average Rent | Avg. Rent vs. HickoryAverage Rent vs. Hickory | Avg. Days on MarketAverage Days on Market |
|---|---|---|---|
| Newton | $1,510 | 29.7% ($346) | 34 days |
| Lenoir | $1,077 | 7.5% ($87) | 35 days |
| Lincolnton | $1,332 | 14.4% ($168) | 39 days |
| Denver | $1,598 | 37.3% ($434) | 38 days |
Rental market trends are calculated using listing data from RentalSource.
Frequently Asked Questions
Hickory Rental Market FAQs
Explore rental prices, market trends, and availability in Hickory, NC.
The average rent in Hickory, NC is $1,164 per month.
Homes in Hickory typically rent for between $723 and $2,057 per month, with an average of $1,164 per month.
In Hickory, the average rent for a 1-bedroom home is $1,033 per month, for a 2-bedroom home, $1,231 per month, and a 3-bedroom home is $1,582 per month.
The average rent in Hickory is 35% ($626) lower than the national average of $1,790 per month.
The average rent in Hickory has decreased by 1.4% ($17) in the last month and decreased by 21.8% ($324) over the past year.
The rental market in Hickory, NC, is currently competitive, with strong renter demand causing quick leasing times for well-priced units.
In Hickory, NC, the average rental stays on the market for approximately 39 days. While most properties are rented within this timeframe, factors like seasonality, demand, and property type can affect how quickly a rental leases.
There are currently 33 rental properties available in Hickory, NC.
Based on the current averages, a household would need an annual income of $49,240 to comfortably afford a 2-bedroom home in Hickory.
