How to Become a Pharmacy Technicians in Pennsylvania
Pharmacy Technicians in Pennsylvania earn a median salary of $37,560/year, which is 14% below the national average. Pennsylvania has a state income tax of ~3.1%. After taxes and rent, a pharmacy technicians takes home approximately $1,177/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a pharmacy technicians can afford in Pennsylvania
Becoming a pharmacy technicians in Pennsylvania
Meet education requirements
Pharmacy Technicians positions in Pennsylvania typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Pennsylvania. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many pharmacy technicians positions in Pennsylvania require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Pennsylvania licensure or certification
Pennsylvania may require specific licensing or professional certification for pharmacy technicianss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Pennsylvania Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania employs 19,630 pharmacy technicians. The highest concentrations are in Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington and Pittsburgh.
Pharmacy Technicians salary by metro area in Pennsylvania
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington | $39K | $18.97/hr | 9,120 |
| Pittsburgh | $39K | $18.64/hr | 4,460 |
| Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton | $37K | $18/hr | 1,240 |
| Lancaster | $37K | $17.67/hr | 690 |
| Chambersburg | $37K | $17.55/hr | 190 |
| Reading | $36K | $17.52/hr | 480 |
| Harrisburg-Carlisle | $36K | $17.5/hr | 1,100 |
| State College | $36K | $17.46/hr | 170 |
| Lebanon | $36K | $17.42/hr | 150 |
| York-Hanover | $36K | $17.42/hr | 590 |
| Gettysburg | $35K | $17.04/hr | 70 |
| Scranton--Wilkes-Barre | $35K | $16.95/hr | 1,020 |
| Erie | $35K | $16.91/hr | 380 |
| Williamsport | $35K | $16.9/hr | 130 |
| Altoona | $35K | $16.67/hr | 210 |
Pharmacy Technicians salary range in Pennsylvania
Pharmacy Technicians careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a pharmacy technicians make in Pennsylvania?▼
The median pharmacy technicians salary in Pennsylvania is $37,560 per year ($18.06/hr). This is 14% below the national median of $43,460. Salaries range from $33,860 to $49,770.
What are the requirements to become a pharmacy technicians in Pennsylvania?▼
Pharmacy Technicians positions in Pennsylvania typically require Bachelor's degree. Pennsylvania may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Pennsylvania licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a pharmacy technicians afford to live in Pennsylvania?▼
At the median salary of $37,560, a pharmacy technicians in Pennsylvania would take home approximately $2,589/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 54.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for pharmacy technicians in Pennsylvania?▼
The highest paying metro areas for pharmacy technicians in Pennsylvania are Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington ($39,450), Pittsburgh ($38,760), Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton ($37,450). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Pennsylvania have state income tax for pharmacy technicians?▼
Yes, Pennsylvania has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.1%. On a $37,560 salary, this means roughly $1,153/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.