How to Become a Pharmacy Technicians in Iowa
Pharmacy Technicians in Iowa earn a median salary of $41,380/year, which is 5% below the national average. Iowa has a state income tax of ~4.7%. After taxes and rent, a pharmacy technicians takes home approximately $1,368/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a pharmacy technicians can afford in Iowa
Becoming a pharmacy technicians in Iowa
Meet education requirements
Pharmacy Technicians positions in Iowa typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Iowa. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many pharmacy technicians positions in Iowa require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Iowa licensure or certification
Iowa may require specific licensing or professional certification for pharmacy technicianss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Iowa Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Iowa
Iowa employs 4,480 pharmacy technicians. The highest concentrations are in Des Moines-West Des Moines and Sioux City.
Pharmacy Technicians salary by metro area in Iowa
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Des Moines-West Des Moines | $44K | $20.97/hr | 1,030 |
| Sioux City | $42K | $20.13/hr | 210 |
| Cedar Rapids | $41K | $19.7/hr | 370 |
| Iowa City | $41K | $19.69/hr | 460 |
| Davenport-Moline-Rock Island | $41K | $19.59/hr | 530 |
| Ames | $40K | $19.25/hr | 160 |
| Waterloo-Cedar Falls | $39K | $18.93/hr | 310 |
| Dubuque | $39K | $18.89/hr | 230 |
Pharmacy Technicians salary range in Iowa
Pharmacy Technicians careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a pharmacy technicians make in Iowa?▼
The median pharmacy technicians salary in Iowa is $41,380 per year ($19.9/hr). This is 5% below the national median of $43,460. Salaries range from $34,880 to $52,530.
What are the requirements to become a pharmacy technicians in Iowa?▼
Pharmacy Technicians positions in Iowa typically require Bachelor's degree. Iowa may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Iowa licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a pharmacy technicians afford to live in Iowa?▼
At the median salary of $41,380, a pharmacy technicians in Iowa would take home approximately $2,780/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 50.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for pharmacy technicians in Iowa?▼
The highest paying metro areas for pharmacy technicians in Iowa are Des Moines-West Des Moines ($43,610), Sioux City ($41,860), Cedar Rapids ($40,980). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Iowa have state income tax for pharmacy technicians?▼
Yes, Iowa has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.7%. On a $41,380 salary, this means roughly $1,933/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.