Pharmacist in Hollywood, FL

Of course. Here is a comprehensive career guide for Pharmacists considering a move to Hollywood, Florida.

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The Salary Picture: Where Hollywood Stands

Hollywood, Florida, offers a competitive salary landscape for pharmacists, particularly when weighed against the local cost of living. The median salary for a pharmacist in the Hollywood metro area is $140,845/year, which translates to an hourly rate of $67.71/hour. This figure sits slightly above the national average of $136,030/year, a significant advantage given Florida's lack of state income tax. However, it's crucial to understand that this is the median—a midpoint where half of the pharmacists earn more and half earn less. Your actual earnings will heavily depend on experience, specialty, and the specific employer.

The job market itself is stable but not explosive. With 307 pharmacist jobs currently in the metro area and a 10-year job growth of -3%, the field is experiencing a slight contraction, typical of many mature healthcare markets. This means competition for prime positions, especially in hospital or specialty settings, can be fierce. The key is to position yourself with specialized skills or experience in high-demand areas.

Experience-Level Breakdown

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Key Responsibilities & Settings
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$125,000 - $135,000	Community pharmacy (retail), basic patient counseling, insurance billing, medication dispensing.
Mid-Career (3-8 years)	$135,000 - $150,000	Increased clinical oversight, immunization programs, medication therapy management (MTM), staff supervision, potential transition to outpatient or mail-order.
Senior-Level (9-15 years)	$145,000 - $160,000	Clinical specialist roles, management (Pharmacy Manager/Director), hospital clinical staff, specialty pharmacy, complex disease state management.
Expert (15+ years)	$155,000+	Director of Pharmacy (hospital/system), corporate leadership, specialized consultant, academia, or highly niche clinical roles.

Comparison to Other Florida Cities

Hollywood's salary is strong within the South Florida tri-county region. While it doesn't command the premium of downtown Miami, it offers a better balance than many other Florida markets.

City	Median Salary	1-BR Rent (Avg.)
Hollywood	$140,845	$1,621
Miami	$147,000+	$2,400+
Fort Lauderdale	$145,000+	$2,100+
Orlando	$138,500	$1,750
Tampa	$136,000	$1,680
Jacksonville	$132,000	$1,450

Data compiled from BLS, Zillow, and local job postings. Note: Miami and Fort Lauderdale salaries are higher but are offset by significantly higher housing and transportation costs.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's break down a typical monthly budget for a single pharmacist earning the Hollywood median of $140,845/year.

• Gross Monthly Income: $11,737
• Estimated Taxes (Federal, FICA, State): ~$3,200 - $3,500 (FL has no state income tax)
• Net Take-Home Pay (Estimate): $8,200 - $8,500/month
• Average 1-BR Rent in Hollywood: $1,621/month

Monthly Budget Breakdown:

• After Rent: $6,579 - $6,879
• Utilities (Electric, Water, Internet): $250 - $400
• Car Payment/Insurance (FL rates are high): $500 - $800
• Groceries: $400 - $600
• Health Insurance (if not fully covered by employer): $300 - $500
• Retirement Savings (10-15%): $1,170 - $1,760
• Discretionary/Entertainment: $1,500 - $2,000

This leaves a comfortable cushion for savings, leisure, or paying down student loans. The key takeaway is that the $140,845 salary provides a solid middle-to-upper-middle-class lifestyle in Hollywood.

Can They Afford to Buy a Home?

Yes, but it requires careful budgeting. The median home price in Hollywood is approximately $410,000. With a 20% down payment ($82,000), a 30-year mortgage at 6.5% would result in a monthly payment (including taxes and insurance) of roughly $2,500 - $2,700.

This is a significant increase from rent but remains manageable on a $140,845 salary, especially if you have a partner with an income. The primary challenge is saving for the down payment while paying rent and student loans. Insider Tip: Look into Florida Housing Finance Corporation (FHFC) programs that offer down payment and closing cost assistance for eligible first-time homebuyers.

Where the Jobs Are: Hollywood's Major Employers

The Hollywood job market is dominated by large hospital systems, national retail chains, and a growing specialty pharmacy sector. Here are the key players:

1. Memorial Healthcare System: The largest employer in South Broward. Their main campus is just west of I-95 in Hollywood. They operate Memorial Regional Hospital (Level I Trauma Center), Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital, and several outpatient pharmacies. They actively hire clinical pharmacy specialists, clinical coordinators, and management staff. Their focus on clinical integration makes them a prime destination for pharmacists seeking to move beyond dispensing.

2. Cleveland Clinic Florida: With a massive expansion in the neighboring city of Weston, Cleveland Clinic is a major employer for pharmacists in the Hollywood area. They offer roles in inpatient, outpatient, and specialty pharmacy, with a strong emphasis on research and innovation. The commute from Hollywood to Weston is typically 15-25 minutes against peak traffic.

3. Publix Pharmacy: A South Florida staple, Publix is one of the largest retail pharmacy employers. They are known for their employee-owned model, competitive benefits, and strong internal promotion culture. With dozens of locations throughout Hollywood and Broward County, they offer stability and a predictable work environment. Hiring is consistent but competitive.

4. Walgreens & CVS Health: The national chains have a massive footprint in Hollywood. While often associated with high-stress retail environments, they offer extensive experience in patient care, immunizations, and MTM. They are often the most accessible entry points for new graduates or those new to Florida. Insider Tip: Look for locations in higher-income neighborhoods (like the Diplomat area) or near hospital campuses for a potentially better patient mix and staffing levels.

5. Independent Pharmacies & Specialty Pharmacies: Hollywood has a vibrant network of independent pharmacies that cater to specific community needs. Additionally, specialty pharmacies (often partnering with manufacturers for high-cost drugs) are growing. Employers like Avella Specialty Pharmacy or local compounding pharmacies offer niches for pharmacists seeking a different pace and higher clinical involvement.

Hiring Trends: There is a strong push towards clinical integration in hospital settings. Pharmacists with BCPS (Board Certified Pharmacotherapy Specialist) certification or residency experience are highly sought after. In retail, the trend is towards expanding MTM and point-of-care testing services to drive revenue beyond dispensing.

Getting Licensed in FL

Practicing pharmacy in Florida requires a license from the Florida Board of Pharmacy. The process is straightforward but requires attention to detail.

Key Requirements:

1. Graduation: A Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) from an ACPE-accredited program.
2. Foreign Graduates: Must have their credentials evaluated by the Foreign Pharmacy Graduate Examination Committee (FPGEC).
3. Examinations:
   • NAPLEX: National Boards Exam.
   • MPJE: Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Exam (Florida-specific).
   • Foreign Graduates: Must also pass the FPGEE.
4. Practical Experience: For U.S. graduates, this is typically completed during school. Foreign graduates must complete 1,500 hours of supervised practice under a Florida-licensed preceptor.
5. Background Check: A fingerprint-based criminal background check is mandatory.

Costs & Timeline:

• Application Fee: ~$250
• NAPLEX Fee: ~$535
• MPJE Fee: ~$240
• Background Check: ~$85
• Total (U.S. Grad): ~$1,110
• Timeline: From submitting a complete application to receiving a license, it typically takes 4-8 weeks, provided there are no delays with exam scores or background checks.

Insider Tip: Apply for your Florida license before moving. You can list a tentative start date with employers. Florida is part of the License e-Compact, which allows pharmacists licensed in other participating states to practice temporarily in Florida without obtaining a full license, which is useful for locum tenens (travel) positions.

Best Neighborhoods for Pharmacists

Hollywood is geographically divided by I-95 and US-1, with distinct lifestyles on each side.

1. Downtown Hollywood: The heart of the city, with a walkable, artsy vibe and a major resurgence. Close to major hospitals (Memorial) and the Brightline train station for trips to Miami or Fort Lauderdale.

   • Commute: Excellent to Memorial Healthcare System; 10-15 mins to I-95 access.
   • Lifestyle: Urban, walkable, vibrant nightlife.
   • Rent (1-BR): $1,800 - $2,200/month

2. East Hollywood / Hollywood Lakes: West of I-95 but east of the beach. A mix of mid-century homes and newer condos. Offers a suburban feel while being minutes from the Atlantic Ocean.

   • Commute: Good; 10-20 mins to most major employers.
   • Lifestyle: Family-friendly, close to parks and the beach, quieter than downtown.
   • Rent (1-BR): $1,700 - $1,900/month

3. West Hollywood / Sheridan: West of I-95, more suburban and affordable. This is where many healthcare professionals and young families live. Commutes into Miami or Fort Lauderdale are easier than from the east side.

   • Commute: 15-30 mins (traffic-dependent) to most employers; easy access to Turnpike.
   • Lifestyle: Suburban, quiet, more residential.
   • Rent (1-BR): $1,450 - $1,650/month

4. The Diplomat Area: The southernmost part of Hollywood, bordering Hallandale Beach. Home to the luxury Diplomat Resort and newer, high-rise condos. Very affluent, with pristine beaches.

   • Commute: 20-35 mins to Memorial or Cleveland Clinic; can be congested.
   • Lifestyle: Upscale, resort-style, quiet.
   • Rent (1-BR): $2,000 - $3,000+/month

The Long Game: Career Growth

Advancing your career in Hollywood involves specializing and taking on leadership roles. The -3% job growth underscores the importance of making yourself indispensable.

• Specialty Premiums: Obtaining board certification (BCPS, BCOP, BCACP) can add $5,000 - $15,000 to your base salary, especially in hospital systems. Specialties in oncology (at hospitals like Memorial or Cleveland Clinic), critical care, or infectious disease command the highest premiums.
• Advancement Paths:
  1. Clinical Ladder: Clinical Pharmacist → Clinical Specialist → Clinical Manager/Director.
  2. Management: Pharmacy Manager (Retail) → District Pharmacy Supervisor → Regional Director.
  3. Corporate/Industry: Moving into roles with PBMs (Pharmacy Benefit Managers), insurance companies, or pharmaceutical sales.
  4. Entrepreneurship: Opening a specialized compounding pharmacy or a consultant pharmacy for long-term care facilities.
• 10-Year Outlook: The profession in South Florida will likely see a greater emphasis on value-based care and patient outcomes. Pharmacists who can demonstrate their impact on reducing hospital readmissions, improving medication adherence, and managing chronic diseases will thrive. The rise of telehealth and remote medication management is also a growing area to watch. Insider Tip: Network with local pharmacy leaders through the Broward County Pharmacy Association for mentorship and unadvertised opportunities.

The Verdict: Is Hollywood Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Solid Salary: $140,845 median is strong for the cost of living.	Competitive Job Market: -3% growth means you need a strong resume.
No State Income Tax: Increases your take-home pay significantly.	High Cost of Living: Rent and housing are expensive, though manageable on a pharmacist's salary.
Diverse Employer Base: From major hospitals to retail giants and independents.	Traffic & Commutes: I-95 and US-1 can be heavily congested; location choice is critical.
Vibrant Lifestyle: Beaches, culture, and proximity to Miami/Fort Lauderdale.	Hurricane Risk: Requires preparation and potentially higher insurance costs.
Licensing Ease: FL is part of the e-Compact, easing temporary practice.	Summer Humidity & Heat: Can be intense for those not used to tropical climates.

Final Recommendation:
Hollywood, FL, is an excellent choice for pharmacists seeking a balance between a rewarding career and a high-quality, active lifestyle. It is best suited for:

• Early to Mid-Career Pharmacists looking for growth in major hospital systems.
• Pharmacists with specializations (BCPS, oncology, etc.) who will be highly valued.
• Those who value proximity to beaches and major urban centers but prefer a slightly less chaotic (and slightly more affordable) base than Miami.

It may be less ideal for those seeking rapid industry growth or who are debt-averse and need to aggressively save.

FAQs

1. How competitive is the job market for new pharmacy graduates in Hollywood?
It's moderately competitive. While there are 307 jobs, the negative growth means experienced pharmacists are holding onto prime positions. New graduates should be prepared to start in retail or mail-order settings and gain experience before moving into clinical or hospital roles. Completing a PGY-1 residency is a significant advantage.

2. What is the most common work setting for pharmacists in Hollywood?
Retail pharmacy (chains like Publix, Walgreens, CVS) remains the largest employer by volume. However, hospital-based positions at Memorial Healthcare System and Cleveland Clinic are growing in demand due to the push for clinical services.

3. Is a car necessary in Hollywood?
Absolutely. While downtown Hollywood is walkable, the city is sprawling. Major employers, hospitals, and shopping centers are spread out, and public transportation is not efficient for a professional commute. A reliable car is a non-negotiable expense.

4. How does the cost of living affect a pharmacist's salary?
With a Cost of Living Index of 111.8 (11.8% above the U.S. average), your $140,845 salary will feel like approximately $126,000 in a national-average city. The biggest factor is housing. While rent is high, it's significantly lower than in Miami or Fort Lauderdale, making Hollywood a financially savvy choice for those working in the broader South Florida region.

5. What are the biggest challenges pharmacists face in this area?
The primary challenges are high living costs (especially housing and car insurance), traffic congestion, and the intense summer heat/humidity. Professionally, the shift from dispensing to clinical roles requires continuous learning and certification, and the job market's slight contraction means less frequent job-hopping opportunities.