How to Become a Pharmacy Technicians in Washington
Pharmacy Technicians in Washington earn a median salary of $56,140/year, which is 29% above the national average. Washington has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a pharmacy technicians takes home approximately $2,517/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a pharmacy technicians can afford in Washington
Becoming a pharmacy technicians in Washington
Meet education requirements
Pharmacy Technicians positions in Washington typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Washington. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many pharmacy technicians positions in Washington require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Washington licensure or certification
Washington may require specific licensing or professional certification for pharmacy technicianss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Washington Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Washington
Washington employs 9,260 pharmacy technicians. The highest concentrations are in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue and Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater.
Pharmacy Technicians salary by metro area in Washington
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue | $60K | $28.83/hr | 5,330 |
| Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater | $56K | $26.77/hr | 280 |
| Walla Walla | $54K | $25.91/hr | 80 |
| Mount Vernon-Anacortes | $52K | $25.23/hr | 140 |
| Bellingham | $52K | $25.01/hr | 240 |
| Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard | $52K | $24.85/hr | 230 |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley | $52K | $24.81/hr | 830 |
| Wenatchee-East Wenatchee | $51K | $24.7/hr | 130 |
| Kennewick-Richland | $51K | $24.52/hr | 300 |
| Longview-Kelso | $50K | $24.2/hr | 110 |
| Yakima | $49K | $23.68/hr | 250 |
Pharmacy Technicians salary range in Washington
Pharmacy Technicians careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a pharmacy technicians make in Washington?▼
The median pharmacy technicians salary in Washington is $56,140 per year ($26.99/hr). This is 29% above the national median of $43,460. Salaries range from $45,550 to $74,370.
What are the requirements to become a pharmacy technicians in Washington?▼
Pharmacy Technicians positions in Washington typically require Bachelor's degree. Washington may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Washington licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a pharmacy technicians afford to live in Washington?▼
At the median salary of $56,140, a pharmacy technicians in Washington would take home approximately $3,929/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 35.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for pharmacy technicians in Washington?▼
The highest paying metro areas for pharmacy technicians in Washington are Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue ($59,960), Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater ($55,690), Walla Walla ($53,890). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Washington have state income tax for pharmacy technicians?▼
No, Washington does not have a state income tax. This means pharmacy technicians keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.