Pharmacist in Enid, OK

Here is a comprehensive career guide for Pharmacists considering a move to Enid, Oklahoma.

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The Salary Picture: Where Enid Stands

As a pharmacist in Enid, you're looking at a solid middle-ground salary that stretches a long way in this part of the country. The local market has its own rhythm, and understanding the numbers is key to setting realistic expectations. The median salary for a pharmacist in Enid is $130,357/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $62.67/hour. This is slightly below the national average of $136,030/year, but the gap shrinks when you factor in the local cost of living—more on that later.

The job market here is tight. With only 101 pharmacist jobs in the metro area, opportunities are limited and competition can be fierce for the few openings that pop up. The 10-year job growth is -3%, which is a sobering statistic. This isn't a boomtown for pharmacy; it's a stable, established market where positions are often filled internally or through long-standing professional networks. This means you need to be strategic, persistent, and often have an "in" through local connections or prior experience in regional hospital systems.

Experience-Level Breakdown

Salaries in Enid are heavily dependent on experience. New grads will start lower, but with time, you can reach and exceed the median. Here’s how the pay scale typically breaks down:

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Typical Setting
Entry-Level (0-3 years)	$110,000 - $120,000	Retail chain, independent pharmacy, or hospital residency
Mid-Career (4-8 years)	$125,000 - $140,000	Hospital staff pharmacist, lead retail pharmacist
Senior (9-15 years)	$140,000 - $155,000	Clinical specialist, pharmacy manager, compounding lead
Expert/Managerial (15+ years)	$155,000+	Director of Pharmacy (for hospital systems), multi-site manager

Note: These are estimates based on local job postings and industry reports for the region. Specialized roles in areas like oncology or infectious disease can command premiums.

Comparison to Other Oklahoma Cities

How does Enid stack up against other cities in the state? While it's not the highest-paying market, its cost-of-living advantage is significant.

• Oklahoma City: The state capital has a larger market and slightly higher salaries (median ~$138,000), but the cost of living is also higher. It's a better bet for career advancement and specialization.
• Tulsa: Similar to OKC, with a broader job market and salaries around the $135,000-$140,000 range. The cost of living is moderate, but again, higher than Enid's.
• Lawton: A smaller city with a strong military presence (Fort Sill). Salaries are comparable to Enid (~$128,000), with a very low cost of living. Job growth is also limited.
• Enid's Niche: Enid offers a unique balance. You trade the hustle and potential for rapid advancement in a big city for a lower-stress environment, affordable living, and a tight-knit community. You're not a cog in a giant machine here; you're a known professional.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

A $130,357/year salary looks very different in Enid than it does in, say, Denver or Boston. Let's break down the monthly take-home pay and living expenses.

Assumptions for a single filer in 2023:

• Federal Tax: ~$20,500 (approx. 15.7% effective rate)
• State Tax (OK): ~$6,200 (approx. 4.75% flat rate)
• FICA (7.65%): ~$9,970
• Estimated Annual Take-Home: ~$93,687
• Estimated Monthly Take-Home: ~$7,807

Monthly Budget Breakdown

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Rent (1BR)	$760	Average for Enid. A nice 1BR in a safe area runs $700-$900.
Utilities	$250	Includes electric, gas, water, and high-speed internet.
Groceries	$400	Enid has a low grocery cost index.
Transportation	$300	Car payment, insurance, gas. Enid is car-dependent.
Health Insurance	$400	Varies by employer, but this is a typical contribution.
Savings/Retirement	$1,500	Aggressive saving. This is 19% of take-home.
Misc./Discretionary	$1,897	Entertainment, dining out, personal care, travel.
Total	$7,807	Leaves a healthy cushion.

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely.
With a take-home pay of $7,807/month and a modest mortgage payment (e.g., $1,200/month for a $200,000 home with a 20% down payment), homeownership is very feasible. The median home price in Enid is around $180,000-$220,000. Many pharmacists here own single-family homes in safe neighborhoods with yards, a lifestyle that would be cost-prohibitive in larger metropolitan areas on a similar salary.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

A $130,357/year salary looks very different in Enid than it does in, say, Denver or Boston. Let's break down the monthly take-home pay and living expenses.

Assumptions for a single filer in 2023:

• Federal Tax: ~$20,500 (approx. 15.7% effective rate)
• State Tax (OK): ~$6,200 (approx. 4.75% flat rate)
• FICA (7.65%): ~$9,970
• Estimated Annual Take-Home: ~$93,687
• Estimated Monthly Take-Home: ~$7,807

Monthly Budget Breakdown

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Rent (1BR)	$760	Average for Enid. A nice 1BR in a safe area runs $700-$900.
Utilities	$250	Includes electric, gas, water, and high-speed internet.
Groceries	$400	Enid has a low grocery cost index.
Transportation	$300	Car payment, insurance, gas. Enid is car-dependent.
Health Insurance	$400	Varies by employer, but this is a typical contribution.
Savings/Retirement	$1,500	Aggressive saving. This is 19% of take-home.
Misc./Discretionary	$1,897	Entertainment, dining out, personal care, travel.
Total	$7,807	Leaves a healthy cushion.

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely.
With a take-home pay of $7,807/month and a modest mortgage payment (e.g., $1,200/month for a $200,000 home with a 20% down payment), homeownership is very feasible. The median home price in Enid is around $180,000-$220,000. Many pharmacists here own single-family homes in safe neighborhoods with yards, a lifestyle that would be cost-prohibitive in larger metropolitan areas on a similar salary.

Where the Jobs Are: Enid's Major Employers

The job market for pharmacists in Enid is dominated by a few key players. Knowing who they are and what they value is critical. The 101 jobs in the metro are mostly with these entities.

1. Integris Bass Baptist Health Center: The largest hospital in town. They have a growing pharmacy department and often hire for staff pharmacists, clinical specialists, and management. They offer a strong benefits package and opportunities for specialization. Hiring is steady but slow; they rarely post jobs externally. Insider Tip: Network with their pharmacy director at local pharmacy association meetings.
2. St. Mary's Regional Medical Center: Another key hospital competitor. Similar roles to Integris Bass. They have a well-regarded compounding pharmacy and are often involved in local health initiatives. Job openings here are posted on their website and local job boards like the Oklahoma Pharmacy Association (OPA) site.
3. Walmart Pharmacy & CVS Health: The major retail chains have a significant presence. These are often the most accessible entry points for new pharmacists. The pace is fast, but they offer structured training and potential for movement into district management. Turnover can be higher, leading to openings.
4. Local Independent Pharmacies: Enid has a few strong independents like Enid Pharmacy (a community staple) and Square One Pharmacy. These are excellent for pharmacists who value patient relationships and a less corporate environment. Pay can be competitive with chains, and you often have more autonomy.
5. Enid Public Schools: The school district employs a pharmacist to manage medication administration for students with chronic conditions. This is a niche, stable, 9-month contract job with summers off. It's a great option for pharmacists with families or those seeking work-life balance.
6. The VA Clinic (Enid Community Based Outpatient Clinic): Part of the Oklahoma City VA Health System. They hire pharmacists for outpatient medication management. Federal jobs offer excellent benefits and job security, but the application process is long and highly competitive.

Hiring Trends: The trend is toward clinical specialization within hospital settings and management in retail. Community health and long-term care (LTC) are growing areas due to Oklahoma's aging population. Remote medication therapy management (MTM) roles are also emerging, allowing pharmacists to work for national companies while living in Enid.

Getting Licensed in OK

If you're moving from another state, you'll need to transfer your license to Oklahoma. The process is straightforward but requires planning.

Requirements & Costs

1. NAPLEX: You must pass the North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination (if you haven't already). Oklahoma also uses the Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination (MPJE). Cost: The NAPLEX fee is $485. The Oklahoma MPJE fee is $100.
2. Application: Submit an application through the Oklahoma State Board of Pharmacy (OSBP) website. You'll need to provide Proof of Graduation, NAPLEX/MPJE scores, and a background check. Cost: Application fee is $250.
3. Foreign Graduate Path: If you're an international graduate, you'll need to complete the Foreign Pharmacy Graduate Examination Committee (FPGEC) certification. This process takes 12-18 months and involves multiple exams.
4. Timeline: For a U.S. graduate with an active license in another state, you can expect the license transfer to take 4-8 weeks after submitting a complete application. It's best to start the process before you move.

Insider Tip: Oklahoma is part of the Pharmacy Compact, which allows pharmacists to practice in multiple member states more easily. If you plan to practice in multiple states (e.g., also in Kansas or Texas, which are nearby), this is a significant advantage.

Best Neighborhoods for Pharmacists

Enid is a driving city, but choosing the right area can make a big difference in your quality of life. Here’s a breakdown of top neighborhoods.

1. Oakwood Country Club Area: (Rent: $900-$1,200 for a 2BR) This is one of Enid's most established and desirable areas. Mature trees, larger homes, and a quiet, family-friendly vibe. Close to the hospital (Integris Bass) for a quick commute. Best for: Pharmacists with families or those seeking a traditional, upscale neighborhood.
2. South Ridge: (Rent: $800-$1,000 for a 2BR) A newer development with modern homes and great schools (Wallace Elementary). It's a straight, easy commute to both hospitals and major retailers. Very popular with young professionals and new families. Best for: A balance of modern living and community.
3. Central Enid (Downtown Adjacent): (Rent: $700-$900 for a 1BR/2BR) Walkable to Enid's evolving downtown, coffee shops, and the historic Gaslight Theatre. Offers more character and older, renovated homes and apartments. Commute times are short to most employers. Best for: Urban-minded professionals who want to be near the action.
4. Northern Enid (Garfield County): (Rent: $650-$850 for a 2BR) A more affordable option with established homes and larger lots. Commutes are still reasonable (15-20 minutes to downtown). Best for: Pharmacists looking to maximize their housing budget or who want more space.
5. Eastside: (Rent: $700-$950 for a 2BR) Offers easy access to the airport and I-35, which is convenient if you travel. A mix of older and newer homes. Best for: Frequent travelers or those who value highway access.

The Long Game: Career Growth

With 10-year job growth at -3%, traditional advancement is a slow burn. You can't rely on a rapidly expanding market; you must create your own opportunities.

Specialty Premiums:

• Oncology/Infusion: At Integris Bass or St. Mary's, these roles can add $10,000-$15,000 to your base salary.
• Compounding/IV Admixture: Specialized skills in sterile and non-sterile compounding are in demand for hospital and independent pharmacies.
• Management: The path to Director of Pharmacy or Regional Manager is the most direct route to a six-figure salary exceeding the median. It requires leadership experience and often an MBA or PharmD/MBA.

Advancement Paths:

1. Retail to Management: Start as a staff pharmacist at a chain, prove yourself, and move into a manager or district leader role.
2. Hospital Staff to Specialist: Begin in a general staff role, then pursue board certification in a specialty (e.g., BCOP for oncology).
3. Independent/Consulting: Use your local network to build a niche in long-term care, medication therapy management, or consulting for local businesses.

10-Year Outlook: The outlook is stable but stagnant. Enid will not see explosive growth. However, it will remain a critical healthcare hub for northwest Oklahoma. Pharmacists who specialize, take on leadership, or build a niche in independent consulting will thrive. Those looking for rapid job hopping or cutting-edge tech opportunities will find Enid limiting.

The Verdict: Is Enid Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living: Your $130,357 salary provides a very comfortable lifestyle.	Limited Job Market: Only 101 jobs and -3% growth means you can't be picky.
Short Commutes: Most commutes are under 15 minutes.	Isolation: It's 2 hours to Oklahoma City and 4 hours to Tulsa. Limited cultural/entertainment options.
Strong Community: You'll know other healthcare professionals and be valued as a local expert.	Car Dependent: You need a reliable vehicle; there's minimal public transit.
Work-Life Balance: Less corporate pressure than in major metros.	Slower Pace of Innovation: Access to the latest tech and treatments may be behind big cities.
Homeownership: Easily attainable on a pharmacist's salary.	Demographic Challenges: An aging population can strain the healthcare system but also creates demand.

Final Recommendation:
Enid is an excellent choice for pharmacists who value stability, affordability, and a close-knit community over rapid career ascent and urban excitement. It's ideal for:

• New graduates looking to pay off student debt aggressively.
• Pharmacists with families seeking a safe, affordable place to raise kids.
• Those nearing retirement who want to stretch their savings.
• Professionals who want to be a big fish in a small pond.

It is NOT a good fit for:

• Pharmacists seeking a dynamic, fast-paced career with frequent job changes.
• Those who need access to specialized medical centers or cutting-edge research.
• Individuals who crave a vibrant, diverse urban environment with endless entertainment.

If you're willing to be proactive in networking, patient with the job search, and value a low-stress lifestyle, Enid can offer a deeply rewarding career and life.

FAQs

Q: How competitive is the job market for pharmacists in Enid?
A: Very competitive for the few openings that appear. With only 101 jobs in the metro, you'll be up against local candidates and those seeking the same low cost of living. Having prior experience in a hospital or a strong local connection is a huge advantage.

Q: What is the typical schedule for a pharmacist in Enid?
A: It varies by setting. Retail (W