Hickory, North Carolina is a mid-sized city with a population of 41,000+ residents. The city features a low cost of living, a mild climate, and a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities. However, there are also some cons to consider when purchasing real estate in Hickory.

Pros:
- Low cost of living: Hickory has a cost of living that is lower than the national average. This means that your expenses, including housing costs, will generally be lower in Hickory than in other areas of the country.
- Mild climate: Hickory experiences mild weather conditions throughout the year, making it a comfortable place to live. Summers are warm, but not excessively hot, and winters can be chilly, but not extremely cold.
- Recreation opportunities: Hickory is located near the Appalachian Mountains and has several parks and lakes for outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, fishing or biking.
- Convenience: Hickory is located approximately an hour from Charlotte, North Carolina for those who would want to commute to a larger city.

Cons:
- Natural Disasters: Hickory is sometimes affected by natural disasters including floods, hurricanes and tornadoes which can potentially cause damage to property.
- Job market: Hickory's job market is somewhat limited; although it does have a strong manufacturing sector, there may not be as many job opportunities available in other fields as there are in larger cities.
- Limited entertainment options: Hickory has fewer entertainment options than larger cities, it is less likely that one would have constant access to concert venues, theaters or museums that can be found in metropolitan areas.
- Population size: Hickory is a mid-sized city, which means it may not have the same level of diversity or cultural scene as a larger city would.

Overall, purchasing real estate in Hickory, North Carolina could be advantageous for those who are looking for a low cost of living, a mild climate, and access to outdoor recreation opportunities. However, it may not be the best fit for those who are looking for abundant job options or diverse entertainment choices.