Culinary schools in Hickory, NC

3 schools within 30 miles of Hickory, NC offer culinary arts programs, and the closest is Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute in Hudson, 12 miles away. Chefs in North Carolina earn a median $61,130 a year, according to the BLS.

Within 30 miles
3
Closest
12 mi
Public colleges
3
Median pay in NC
$61,130

3 culinary arts schools within 30 mi of Hickory, NC

School results

  1. Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute

    Hudson, NC · 12 mi · Public

    • Culinary arts
    • Electrician
    • Welding
    • +14

  2. Mitchell Community College

    Statesville, NC · 24 mi · Public

    • Culinary arts
    • Electrician
    • HVAC technician
    • +11

  3. Wilkes Community College

    Wilkesboro, NC · 28 mi · Public

    • Culinary arts
    • Welding
    • Automotive technician
    • +10

What chefs earn in North Carolina

Median pay means half earn more and half earn less. Pay grows with experience, certifications and overtime.

Chef salary in North CarolinaHow to become a chef

Median pay
$61,130
$29.39 an hour
Typical range
$38,210–$92,210
10th to 90th percentile
Jobs in NC
4,920
Job growth, 2025–35
+6.6%
25,200 openings a year (U.S.)

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025, and Employment Projections.

Hear from the best fits near Hickory

One short form. Up to 3 schools send you costs, schedules and financial aid options. Free, with no obligation.

  • Compare real costs and start dates
  • Ask about financial aid and apprenticeships
  • Your info goes only to the schools you're matched with

Step 1 of 3: Your trade

Compare culinary schools

Free · Takes 60 seconds · No obligation

Frequently asked questions

What are the closest culinary arts schools to Hickory?

The closest are Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute (Hudson, 12 mi), Mitchell Community College (Statesville, 24 mi), and Wilkes Community College (Wilkesboro, 28 mi). In total, 3 schools within 30 miles teach culinary arts.

How much do culinary arts programs near Hickory cost?

For the 2 schools nearby that report it, the average yearly net price after aid ranges from $6,481 to $10,810. Ask each school for the full program cost, including tools, books and exam fees.

How much do chefs make near Hickory?

Across North Carolina, the median pay is $61,130 a year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay varies by employer, experience and certifications.

How do I choose a culinary arts school in Hickory?

Ask each school about accreditation, total cost after financial aid, hands-on lab hours, certification exam prep, class sizes and job placement. Request info from two or three schools so you can compare their answers side by side.

Culinary schools in nearby cities

Other programs near Hickory

All trade schools near Hickory