How to Become a Pharmacy Technicians in Illinois
Pharmacy Technicians in Illinois earn a median salary of $44,610/year, which is 3% above the national average. Illinois has a state income tax of ~4.9%. After taxes and rent, a pharmacy technicians takes home approximately $1,561/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a pharmacy technicians can afford in Illinois
Becoming a pharmacy technicians in Illinois
Meet education requirements
Pharmacy Technicians positions in Illinois typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Illinois. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many pharmacy technicians positions in Illinois require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Illinois licensure or certification
Illinois may require specific licensing or professional certification for pharmacy technicianss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Illinois Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Illinois
Illinois employs 22,790 pharmacy technicians. The highest concentrations are in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin and Champaign-Urbana.
Pharmacy Technicians salary by metro area in Illinois
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin | $46K | $21.91/hr | 17,140 |
| Champaign-Urbana | $42K | $20.06/hr | 420 |
| Springfield | $41K | $19.54/hr | 560 |
| Rockford | $40K | $19.09/hr | 520 |
| Decatur | $39K | $18.54/hr | 200 |
| Peoria | $38K | $18.43/hr | 670 |
| Kankakee | $38K | $18.18/hr | 170 |
| Bloomington | $37K | $17.94/hr | 240 |
Pharmacy Technicians salary range in Illinois
Pharmacy Technicians careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a pharmacy technicians make in Illinois?▼
The median pharmacy technicians salary in Illinois is $44,610 per year ($21.45/hr). This is 3% above the national median of $43,460. Salaries range from $35,670 to $55,410.
What are the requirements to become a pharmacy technicians in Illinois?▼
Pharmacy Technicians positions in Illinois typically require Bachelor's degree. Illinois may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Illinois licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a pharmacy technicians afford to live in Illinois?▼
At the median salary of $44,610, a pharmacy technicians in Illinois would take home approximately $2,973/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 47.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for pharmacy technicians in Illinois?▼
The highest paying metro areas for pharmacy technicians in Illinois are Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ($45,570), Champaign-Urbana ($41,730), Springfield ($40,630). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Illinois have state income tax for pharmacy technicians?▼
Yes, Illinois has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.9%. On a $44,610 salary, this means roughly $2,208/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.