Pharmacy Technician Pay | Pharmacy Tech Scholar

If you’re considering a career as a pharmacy technician, understanding your potential salary is crucial. Pharmacy technicians play a vital role in the healthcare system, assisting pharmacists in dispensing medications, providing customer service, and managing administrative tasks. With the demand for healthcare professionals on the rise, pharmacy technicians enjoy a stable career with opportunities for growth. But what level of pay can you expect to earn as a pharmacy technician?

In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about pharmacy technician pay. Whether you’re curious about national salary averages, how pay varies by state, or the best-paying industries for pharmacy technicians, we’ve got you covered. We’ll also explore factors that can influence your earnings and offer tips on how to maximize your salary in this rewarding field.

All of the data in this post comes from the May 2023 survey by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Given the current demand for pharmacy technicians, there has been an increase in wages in the past year so consider these estimates on the low side.

National Overview of Pharmacy Technician Pay

When exploring a career as a pharmacy technician, it’s essential to understand what the average pay looks like on a national scale. Across the United States, pharmacy technicians earn a median hourly wage of $19.37, translating to an annual salary of approximately $40,300. However, wages can vary widely depending on factors like experience, location, and the specific industry in which a technician works.

To give you a clearer picture, let’s break down the national pay distribution:

10th Percentile: At the lower end, pharmacy technicians earn around $15.73 per hour, or about $32,720 annually. This figure typically represents entry-level technicians who are just starting out in the field.
25th Percentile: Moving up, those in the 25th percentile make approximately $17.45 per hour, equating to an annual salary of $36,290. These individuals might have a few years of experience or work in regions where wages are generally lower.
Median (50th Percentile): As mentioned earlier, the median wage is $19.37 per hour, with an annual income of $40,300. This figure represents the midpoint, meaning half of all pharmacy technicians earn more than this, while the other half earns less.
75th Percentile: Pharmacy technicians in the 75th percentile are earning closer to $22.92 per hour, or about $47,680 annually. These technicians often have significant experience or work in higher-paying states or industries.
90th Percentile: At the top end, the highest earners make $27.47 per hour, translating to an annual salary of $57,130. These technicians are likely in specialized roles, possibly in more competitive job markets or industries.

Understanding these figures gives you a good sense of where you might fall on the pay scale as you progress in your career. In the next sections, we’ll dive deeper into how these national averages vary depending on the state, metro area, and industry.

State-by-State Pharmacy Technician Salary Comparison

Pharmacy technician salaries can differ significantly depending on the state in which you work. While the national averages provide a helpful benchmark, it’s important to consider the regional differences that could impact your earning potential. Some states offer substantially higher wages due to factors such as cost of living, demand for healthcare services, and state regulations.

Highest Paying States

If maximizing your salary is a top priority, you might want to consider relocating to one of the highest-paying states. As of the latest data, the top states for pharmacy technician pay include:

California: Pharmacy technicians in California earn an impressive average of $26.79 per hour, which equates to an annual salary of approximately $55,710. The state’s high cost of living and large healthcare industry contribute to these elevated wages.
Washington: In Washington, the average hourly wage for pharmacy technicians is $25.75, with an annual salary around $53,560. Washington’s robust healthcare system and higher living costs are likely drivers of this above-average pay.
Alaska: Alaska offers an average hourly wage of $23.95, translating to about $49,810 annually. The state’s remote locations and the higher cost of goods and services contribute to the higher wages in this region.

Lowest Paying States

On the other end of the spectrum, some states offer lower pay for pharmacy technicians. This doesn’t necessarily reflect a lack of demand, but often correlates with a lower cost of living or less competitive job markets. Some of the lower-paying states include:

West Virginia: In West Virginia, pharmacy technicians earn an average hourly wage of $14.58, or about $30,330 annually. The state’s rural setting and lower cost of living play a role in these wages.
Arkansas: Pharmacy technicians in Arkansas make an average of $17.87 per hour, equating to an annual salary of $37,170. While this is lower than the national average, it aligns with the state’s overall lower wage levels across various industries.

State Salary Ranges

The range of salaries across states shows just how varied the pharmacy technician profession can be depending on where you work. For example, while California offers some of the highest wages, states like West Virginia and Arkansas sit on the lower end of the scale. Here’s a quick overview of how pay differs:

High end: California ($55,710), Washington ($53,560), and Alaska ($49,810).
Middle range: States like Texas and Florida offer wages around the national average, ranging between $38,000 and $42,000 annually.
Low end: West Virginia ($30,330) and Arkansas ($37,170).

You can browse state by state hourly wage data in the table below:

These differences highlight the importance of considering location when evaluating salary prospects in the pharmacy technician field. In the next section, we’ll take a closer look at how salaries vary within states, focusing on metropolitan areas that may offer higher wages.

Metro Area Salary Breakdown

While state averages give a broad overview of pharmacy technician salaries, diving deeper into metropolitan areas reveals even more significant differences. Certain metro areas offer higher wages due to factors like population density, the concentration of healthcare facilities, and local economic conditions.

Top Paying Metro Areas

Pharmacy technicians looking to maximize their earnings should consider opportunities in the highest-paying metropolitan areas. According to the latest data, some of the top metro areas for pharmacy technician pay include:

San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA: Pharmacy technicians in the San Francisco metro area earn an impressive average of $29.75 per hour, which translates to an annual salary of approximately $61,860. The high cost of living and the presence of numerous leading healthcare institutions contribute to these elevated wages.
San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA: In the San Jose metro area, pharmacy technicians earn an average hourly wage of $28.50, or about $59,280 annually. This area is known for its thriving healthcare industry and higher-than-average living costs, which help drive up wages.
Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA: The Seattle metro area offers an average hourly wage of $26.30, equating to an annual salary of around $54,710. The demand for healthcare services and the region’s economic growth contribute to these competitive wages.

Comparison of Pay Across Major Metro Areas

Even within the same state, pharmacy technician salaries can vary significantly depending on the metropolitan area. For example, while technicians in the San Francisco area earn some of the highest wages in the country, those in other parts of California, such as Fresno or Bakersfield, may see lower average wages due to differences in cost of living and job market competition.

Here’s a quick look at how salaries compare across major metro areas:

High end: San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($61,860), San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($59,280).
Middle range: Areas like Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington, TX and Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach, FL offer salaries closer to the national average, ranging from $38,000 to $45,000 annually.
Low end: Metro areas in regions with a lower cost of living, such as Cleveland-Elyria, OH, may offer wages closer to $35,000 annually.

Understanding the salary variations within metro areas is crucial for pharmacy technicians considering relocation or looking for the best-paying opportunities in their current region. These insights can help you target your job search more effectively and make informed decisions about where to pursue your career.

Industry Specific Pharmacy Technician Pay Insights

The industry in which you work as a pharmacy technician can have a significant impact on your salary. While most pharmacy technicians are employed in retail settings, those working in other industries may find higher-paying opportunities. Understanding these differences can help you make informed career choices and potentially increase your earning potential.

Highest Paying Industries for Pharmacy Technicians

Pharmacy technicians working in certain industries tend to earn higher wages compared to those in more traditional roles. Here are some of the top-paying industries for pharmacy technicians:

Federal Executive Branch (OES Designation): Pharmacy technicians working for the federal government earn the highest average wages in the field, with an hourly rate of $23.50 and an annual salary of approximately $48,880. These roles often come with additional benefits and job security that are typical of federal employment.
Outpatient Care Centers: Pharmacy technicians employed in outpatient care centers earn an average hourly wage of $21.40, or about $44,510 annually. The demand for specialized healthcare services in these settings drives up wages.
General Medical and Surgical Hospitals: In hospital settings, pharmacy technicians can expect to earn an average hourly wage of $20.90, which equates to an annual salary of approximately $43,470. Hospitals typically offer more complex work environments and additional responsibilities, which contribute to higher pay.

Salary Differences Between Industries

Not all pharmacy technician roles are created equal, and wages can vary significantly depending on the industry. For example, pharmacy technicians in retail settings, such as drugstores and grocery stores, may earn lower wages compared to those in more specialized or demanding environments.

Here’s a quick comparison of average wages across different industries:

Federal Executive Branch: $48,880 annually
Outpatient Care Centers: $44,510 annually
General Medical and Surgical Hospitals: $43,470 annually
Retail Pharmacies and Drug Stores: $37,250 annually
Grocery Stores: $36,910 annually

These differences highlight the importance of considering the industry when planning your pharmacy technician career. By targeting higher-paying sectors, you can potentially increase your earning potential and find roles that offer more challenging and rewarding work environments.

Factors Influencing Pharmacy Technician Pay

Pharmacy technician salaries are influenced by a variety of factors, each of which can play a significant role in determining how much you earn. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance in your career, understanding these factors can help you navigate the job market and maximize your earning potential.

Experience Level

Experience is one of the most significant factors affecting pharmacy technician salaries. As with many professions, those who have been in the field longer tend to earn more. Entry-level pharmacy technicians might start on the lower end of the pay scale, but as they gain experience and expertise, their wages typically increase. On average, a pharmacy technician with several years of experience can expect to earn higher wages than someone who is just starting out.

Certification and Education

Becoming a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) can significantly boost your earning potential. Certified pharmacy technicians often earn higher wages than their non-certified counterparts because certification demonstrates a higher level of knowledge and commitment to the profession. Additionally, pursuing further education, such as specialized courses or an associate degree, can open up more advanced roles that come with higher pay.

Geographic Location

As we’ve explored in previous sections, where you work can have a major impact on your salary. Pharmacy technicians in states with a higher cost of living or in urban areas with a dense population tend to earn more. However, it’s essential to balance potential earnings with the cost of living in these areas, as higher salaries might be offset by increased living expenses.

Employment Setting

The type of employer also plays a crucial role in determining salary. Pharmacy technicians working in specialized or high-demand environments, such as hospitals or federal agencies, often earn more than those in retail settings. Employers in industries that require advanced skills or operate in competitive job markets tend to offer higher wages to attract and retain skilled technicians.

Industry Growth and Demand

The overall demand for pharmacy technicians can influence salary trends. As the healthcare industry continues to grow and evolve, particularly with the increasing need for prescription medications and healthcare services, the demand for skilled pharmacy technicians rises. This demand can lead to higher salaries, especially in regions or sectors experiencing rapid growth.

Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions about your career path and how to maximize your salary. Whether you’re considering further education, certification, or a move to a different state or industry, these insights can guide you toward achieving your financial and professional goals.

Tips for Maximizing Your Pay as a Pharmacy Technician

Whether you’re just starting your career or have years of experience, there are always opportunities to boost your earning potential as a pharmacy technician. By strategically focusing on key areas such as education, certification, and location, you can position yourself for higher wages and better career opportunities.

1. Pursue Certification and Continuing Education

One of the most effective ways to increase your salary is by obtaining certification. Becoming a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) is a significant step that can set you apart from non-certified technicians. Certified technicians often qualify for higher-paying positions and are more competitive in the job market. Additionally, consider pursuing continuing education opportunities to stay current with industry trends and advancements. Specialized certifications or additional training can open doors to more advanced roles with higher pay.

2. Consider Geographic Mobility

As we’ve discussed, salaries for pharmacy technicians vary widely depending on location. If you’re open to relocating, consider moving to a state or metropolitan area where pharmacy technicians are in high demand and wages are higher. While moving can be a big decision, it might be worth it if it significantly boosts your income. Research areas with the highest pay and consider the cost of living to determine if relocating is a viable option for you. You can read more about specific state requirements here.

3. Explore Different Work Settings

Not all pharmacy technician roles are the same, and the industry you choose can greatly impact your salary. Consider exploring opportunities outside of traditional retail settings. Hospitals, outpatient care centers, and federal government positions often offer higher wages and more advanced career paths. If you’re looking for a change or want to increase your earnings, researching and applying to positions in these higher-paying sectors could be beneficial.

4. Gain Experience and Seek Advancement Opportunities

Experience is a key factor in salary growth. As you gain experience, your value to employers increases, which can lead to higher pay. Look for opportunities to take on more responsibilities, such as managing other technicians or specializing in a particular area of pharmacy work. Seeking advancement opportunities, such as moving into supervisory roles or becoming a lead technician, can also lead to significant pay increases.

5. Network and Stay Informed

Networking with other pharmacy technicians and healthcare professionals can provide valuable insights into job opportunities, industry trends, and ways to increase your earnings. Attend industry conferences, join professional organizations, and participate in online forums to connect with others in the field. Staying informed about changes in the industry and being proactive in your career can help you identify and seize opportunities that lead to higher pay. By focusing on these strategies, you can take control of your career and work towards maximizing your salary as a pharmacy technician. Whether it’s through certification, exploring new work environments, or gaining experience, there are multiple paths to achieving your financial goals in this rewarding profession.