How to Become a Pharmacy Aides in California
Pharmacy Aides in California earn a median salary of $44,060/year, which is 19% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~2.1%. After taxes and rent, a pharmacy aides takes home approximately $1,629/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a pharmacy aides can afford in California
Becoming a pharmacy aides in California
Meet education requirements
Pharmacy Aides positions in California typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many pharmacy aides positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for pharmacy aidess. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 9,430 pharmacy aides. The highest concentrations are in San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont and Vallejo.
Pharmacy Aides salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $74K | $35.51/hr | 960 |
| Vallejo | $68K | $32.62/hr | 80 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $67K | $32.24/hr | 130 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $64K | $30.72/hr | 450 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $52K | $25.06/hr | 120 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $51K | $24.49/hr | 700 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $47K | $22.6/hr | 360 |
| Yuba City | $44K | $21.25/hr | 30 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $43K | $20.61/hr | 220 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $40K | $19.14/hr | 150 |
| Redding | $40K | $19/hr | 30 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $39K | $18.75/hr | 590 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $39K | $18.61/hr | 40 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $39K | $18.54/hr | 4,660 |
| Salinas | $38K | $18.23/hr | 60 |
Pharmacy Aides salary range in California
Pharmacy Aides careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a pharmacy aides make in California?▼
The median pharmacy aides salary in California is $44,060 per year ($21.18/hr). This is 19% above the national median of $37,000. Salaries range from $35,890 to $74,740.
What are the requirements to become a pharmacy aides in California?▼
Pharmacy Aides positions in California typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a pharmacy aides afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $44,060, a pharmacy aides in California would take home approximately $3,041/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 46.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for pharmacy aides in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for pharmacy aides in California are San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($73,870), Vallejo ($67,860), Santa Rosa-Petaluma ($67,050). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for pharmacy aides?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 2.1%. On a $44,060 salary, this means roughly $943/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.