Job Facts & Figures: Information for Success

An important part of finding a job in today’s market is arming yourself with as much information as possible. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the pharmacy job market is expected to grow 17% by the year 2018, which is good news for today’s pharmacy graduates. The jobs are out there, and a little research will go a long way for pharmacy job seekers.

In pharmacy, like in other health care fields, the ability to secure a job you enjoy and that pays well might depend on where you live—or where you are willing to go. Pharmacy graduates willing to relocate might find themselves in the position to earn a top salary—in a setting they love—instead of in the unemployment line.

Top States by Concentration of Pharmacists:

• New Hampshire

• West Virginia

• Rhode Island

• North Dakota

• Tennessee

Top Paying States by Annual Mean Salary:

• California—$117,080

• Maine—$115,760

• Alabama—$115,060

• Minnesota—$113,500

• Alaska—$113,460

Top Paying Metropolitan Areas:

• Santa Barbara/Santa Maria/Goleta, California—$ 140,670

• Modesto, California—$135,500

• Farmington, New Mexico—$134,990

• Santa Cruz/Watsonville, California—$134,450

• Gadsden, Alabama—$130,040

Top Industries by Number of Employed Pharmacists:

• Health and Personal Care Stores—119,150

• Hospitals—57,230

• Grocery Stores—22,390

• Department Stores—18,410

• General Merchandise Stores—13,230

Adapted from: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2009.