Pharmacy Technician Salary
Estimated Pay by Experience Level
Salary by State
Median annual| State | Median / yr | Relative pay |
|---|---|---|
| Washington | $58,900 | |
| California | $55,110 | |
| Oregon | $54,900 | |
| Alaska | $52,640 | |
| Colorado | $49,970 | |
| Montana | $49,400 | |
| Minnesota | $48,300 | |
| Wyoming | $48,260 | |
| National Median | $45,750 |
View all 51 states arrow_forward
The highest sticker pay isn't always where pharmacy technicians keep the most. See Pharmacy Technician pay adjusted for cost of living by state in the Real Pay Index.
How to Become a Pharmacy Technician
Pharmacy technicians help pharmacists dispense prescription medication to customers and health professionals.
Meet the education requirement
Most pharmacy technicians enter the field with high school diploma or equivalent. Programs are offered by community colleges, trade schools, and universities.
Complete an accredited training program
Hands-on coursework and clinical or field experience prepare you for the work and for certification exams.
Earn the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT)
Most employers expect this credential — and in many states it's required to practice. Entry pay starts near $36,020 and rises toward $61,040 with experience.
Pharmacy Technician salary: common questions
How much does a Pharmacy Technician make an hour?
The median hourly wage for pharmacy technicians is $22.00, which works out to about $45,750 per year for full-time work.
Which state pays pharmacy technicians the most?
Washington has the highest median pay for pharmacy technicians at $58,900 per year — 29% above the national median of $45,750.
What is the salary range for pharmacy technicians?
Most pharmacy technicians earn between $36,020 and $61,040 per year. The middle 50% earn $37,850 to $49,990, with a median of $45,750.
Is becoming a Pharmacy Technician a good career?
Employment is projected to grow 6% (faster than average), and the role typically requires high school diploma or equivalent. With a median wage of $45,750 per year, it pays well above the U.S. median for all occupations.