Pharmacy Technician Salary

By Fel QuijadaUpdated May 20, 2026

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As you embark on this exciting journey to become a Pharmacy Technician, one burning question may be on your mind: What can you expect to earn in this position? Join us as we shed light on this vital aspect of your future career. Let's unlock the potential!

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Pharmacy Technician programs for you

Arizona State University

Pharmacology & Toxicology, BS

Online

Top 10 for best online bachelor's programs.
Learn from notable faculty at the nation's most innovative university.

Financial aid (may be available)

Stautzenberger College - Online

Diploma Medical Office Billing and Coding

Online

Complete your diploma in 10 months through 100% online format
Master ICD and CPT coding systems for insurance claims and medical records

Financial aid (may be available)

Ultimate Medical Academy

A.S. Medical Billing & Coding

Online

Fully Online: Complete your degree online in 18 months or more
Receive academic, job search assistance, and 24/7 technical support

Financial aid (may be available)

Ultimate Medical Academy

A.S. Health Sciences - Medical Office and Billing Specialist

Online

Fully Online: Complete your degree online in 18 months or more
Receive academic, job search assistance, and 24/7 technical support

Financial aid (may be available)

What is a Pharmacy Technician?

Before we dive into salaries, let's quickly touch upon a Pharmacy Technician (PhT) role. Working alongside pharmacists, PhTs play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of pharmacies. They assist in dispensing medications, maintaining inventory, and providing exceptional customer service. If you're curious about the profession, check out our informative blog post on how to become a pharmacy technician.

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Average Pharmacy Technician Salary

Now, let's explore the heart of the matter: the salary. The average PhT salary can vary depending on several factors, including location, experience, and industry. The average annual wage for PhTs was around $40,260 in 2022, and $19.35 average hourly salary rate, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

However, it's important to note that salaries can differ significantly based on the industry in which you choose to work. PhTs employed in hospitals, for instance, may earn higher salaries than those working in retail or mail-order pharmacies.

Pharmacy technicians held about 447,300 job roles in the year 2021. The major employers of pharmacy technicians were as follows:

Pharmacies and drug stores: 50%
Hospitals; state, local, and private: 16%
Food and beverage stores: 9%

And you may be wondering which states have better pay. To provide you with a comprehensive overview, here is a table highlighting the top-paying states for PhTs based on the most recent available data on the BLS:

California:
- Hourly mean wage: $25.04
- Annual mean wage: $52,090
Washington:
- Hourly mean wage: $23.81
- Annual mean wage: $49,530
Alaska:
- Hourly mean wage: $23.18
- Annual mean wage: $48,210
Oregon:
- Hourly mean wage: $22.49
- Annual mean wage: $46,770
District of Columbia:
- Hourly mean wage: $21.75
- Annual mean wage: $45,240

Please note that the salary amounts may vary based on experience, certification, and specific job settings within each state.

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Certification's Impact on Salary

If you aim to maximize your earning potential as a PhT, obtaining a certification or license can be a game-changer. Certificate and license showcase your dedication and expertise, setting you apart in the competitive job market.

Certified Pharmacy Technicians, or CPhTs, often enjoy better career prospects and potential for advancement. To better understand how a certification differs from a license, read our comprehensive blog post on "How Long Does It Take to Become a Pharmacy Technician?". It will guide you through the path to this rewarding career!

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More programs to explore

Southern New Hampshire University

BA Psychology with concentration in Mental Health

Online

Complete your degree at your own pace
24/7 online accessibility

Financial aid (may be available)

Job Outlook for Pharmacy Technicians

As you contemplate your career path, it's essential to consider the job outlook for PhTs. The future looks promising! The rising demand for healthcare services, including pharmaceutical care, will cultivate the need for skilled PhTs. Employment of PhTs will increase by 5% from 2021 to 2031, offering steady job prospects.

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Final Thoughts

The salary of a PhT holds promising potential. With average wages and the opportunity for growth, this dynamic career path offers financial stability and personal fulfillment. But, as you envision yourself thriving as a PhT, remember that the potential income is just one aspect of the profession. The opportunity to positively impact patients' lives and contribute to the healthcare field is immeasurable.

If you're ready to take the next step, Dreambound offers PhT classes to help you achieve your goals. Explore available pharmacy technician certification classes near you using your zip code. Try the easiest way to find a school in just a click. Embrace the journey, unlock your potential, and embark on a rewarding career as a Pharmacy Technician!