Pharmacist in Peoria, IL

Of course. Here is a comprehensive career guide for Pharmacists considering a move to Peoria, IL.

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The Salary Picture: Where Peoria Stands

As someone who has watched the healthcare landscape in Central Illinois for years, the first thing you need to know about being a pharmacist in Peoria is that you're entering a stable, well-compensated profession that's deeply integrated into the city's economic and medical fabric. However, the data shows a market that's mature and contracting slightly, a key consideration for your long-term career planning.

The median salary for a pharmacist in the Peoria metro area is $131,377/year, which translates to an hourly rate of $63.16/hour. This is slightly below the national average of $136,030/year, a common trend for Midwestern cities with a lower cost of living. The metro area supports approximately 226 pharmacist jobs, indicating a small but consistent demand. The most critical piece of data for anyone considering this move is the -3% 10-year job growth, a figure that reflects national trends in retail consolidation and the increasing role of automation and technicians in filling roles.

Experience-Level Breakdown

While specific local data for each tier can be scarce, we can extrapolate from national trends and local market knowledge. Entry-level here means 0-2 years of experience post-licensure, while an expert would have over a decade, often in a specialty or management role.

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary (Peoria)	Key Responsibilities
Entry-Level	$115,000 - $125,000	Staff pharmacist in retail or hospital settings, verifying prescriptions, patient counseling.
Mid-Career	$128,000 - $140,000	Increased responsibility, potential for lead pharmacist roles, specialty pharmacy, or clinical management.
Senior/Expert	$140,000 - $155,000+	Pharmacy manager, clinical specialist (e.g., oncology, infectious disease), administrative roles at health systems.

Comparison to Other Illinois Cities

Peoria's salary is competitive within the state, especially when the cost of living is factored in. It holds its own against other mid-sized Illinois cities but falls short of the major metropolitan centers.

City	Median Pharmacist Salary	Cost of Living Index (US Avg=100)
Chicago	$145,000+	121.5
Peoria	$131,377	88.6
Springfield	$129,000	85.1
Bloomington	$128,500	87.2

Insider Tip: Don't just look at the top-line salary number. The cost of living in Peoria is nearly 12% lower than the national average and over 25% lower than Chicago. Your dollar goes significantly further here, which can mean a higher quality of life on a similar or even slightly lower salary.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's break down the real-world finances for a pharmacist earning the median salary of $131,377/year. This is a detailed estimate, as exact take-home pay depends on your tax filing status, retirement contributions, and health plan.

Assumptions for a Single Filer:

• Federal Tax (2023): ~16.5%
• FICA (7.65%): Social Security and Medicare
• IL State Tax: 4.95% flat rate
• Health Insurance & 401k (5%): A reasonable estimate for benefits

Deduction Category	Annual Amount	Monthly Amount
Gross Salary	$131,377	$10,948
Federal Tax	~$21,677	~$1,806
FICA	~$10,050	~$838
IL State Tax	~$6,503	~$542
Health/401k	~$6,569	~$547
Estimated Take-Home	~$86,578	~$7,215

Monthly Budget Breakdown

With a take-home of approximately $7,215/month, here’s a realistic budget for a single professional in Peoria. This assumes a moderate lifestyle, including savings and discretionary spending.

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Rent (1BR in a good area)	$800 - $950	See "Best Neighborhoods" section below.
Utilities (Electric/Heat/Water)	$150 - $200	Peoria winters can be cold; heating costs are a factor.
Groceries	$400 - $500	Based on average costs for a single person.
Car Payment/Insurance	$400 - $600	Essential in Peoria; public transit is limited.
Gas/Maintenance	$150 - $250	Commuting costs vary by neighborhood.
Health (Out-of-pocket)	$100 - $200	Co-pays, prescriptions, etc.
Retirement Savings (5%)	$547	Already accounted for in take-home.
Discretionary/Savings	$1,718 - $2,000	For dining out, entertainment, travel, and additional savings.

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely. With a median home price in Peoria around $150,000 - $170,000, a pharmacist earning $131,377 is in an excellent position to purchase. A 20% down payment on a $160,000 home is $32,000, which is achievable with savings. A monthly mortgage payment (including taxes and insurance) would likely be in the $900 - $1,100 range, which is very manageable on this salary.

Where the Jobs Are: Peoria's Major Employers

Peoria's pharmacy job market is anchored by its massive healthcare system and a mix of national retail chains. The demand is stable, but competition for the best hospital and clinical roles can be strong.

1. OSF HealthCare: The region's largest employer. OSF Saint Francis Medical Center is a Level 1 Trauma Center and a major teaching hospital affiliated with the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria. Their pharmacy department is large and offers roles in inpatient, oncology, critical care, and ambulatory care. Hiring is consistent, especially for residency-trained candidates.
2. UnityPoint Health - Methodist College & Proctor Campus: The other major health system in Peoria. UnityPoint Health offers diverse pharmacy roles across its hospitals and a network of outpatient clinics. They are often looking for staff pharmacists, clinical specialists, and managers.
3. CVS Health & Walgreens: As in any city, these national chains have a significant presence. They offer reliable employment with clear corporate structures. Hiring can be cyclical but is generally steady for both full-time and part-time staff pharmacists. They are often the entry point for new graduates.
4. Rite Aid: While smaller than CVS and Walgreens, Rite Aid has a solid footprint in Central Illinois and offers a different corporate culture. It's worth monitoring their job boards for opportunities.
5. Hy-Vee Pharmacy: A regional favorite, Hy-Vee pharmacies are known for their community-focused service and integrated grocery experience. They often have a strong local reputation and can be a great place to work if you enjoy a more personal, retail environment.
6. University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria (UICOMP): While not a direct employer for most pharmacists, UICOMP is a major hub for research and clinical trials. This creates opportunities in investigational drug services and specialized clinical roles within OSF and UnityPoint.
7. Independent Pharmacies: Peoria has several well-regarded independent pharmacies (e.g., Community Pharmacy, Rose Medical). These can offer a more intimate work environment, direct owner involvement, and a focus on compounding or specialized services.

Hiring Trends: The most significant trend is the consolidation of retail chains, which has led to a slight decrease in traditional dispensing roles. The growth is in clinical and specialty pharmacy. Having a Pharmacy residency (PGY1) or a Board Certification (BCPS, BCOP, etc.) makes you a much more competitive candidate for hospital and clinical positions at OSF and UnityPoint.

Getting Licensed in IL

If you're moving from another state, you'll need to secure an Illinois pharmacist license. The process is managed by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR).

Key Requirements:

• Education: A Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree from an ACPE-accredited program.
• Examination: Passing scores on the NAPLEX (North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination) and the MPJE (Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination) for Illinois.
• Foreign Pharmacy Graduates: Must have a Foreign Pharmacy Graduate Examination Certificate (FPGEC) from the NABP.
• Background Check: A fingerprint-based criminal history check is required.

Timeline and Costs:

• Timeline: The process can take 60 to 90 days from the time you submit a complete application, assuming you already have your NAPLEX/MPJE scores. It's best to start the application process as soon as you have a job offer in hand.
• Costs:
  • Application Fee: $250
  • NABP Profile Fee: $50 (if not already established)
  • Fingerprinting Fee: ~$50
  • Total Estimated Cost: ~$350 (excluding NAPLEX/MPJE exam fees, which you take in your previous state of residence or as a new graduate).

Insider Tip: The IDFPR website can be slow and dense. Double-check all requirements and submit documents early. Pharmacists from other states can sometimes apply for a temporary license while their full application is processing, which can speed up your start date. Always confirm with your employer's HR department, as they often help navigate this process.

Best Neighborhoods for Pharmacists

Peoria is a city of distinct neighborhoods, each with its own character. Your choice will depend on your commute, lifestyle, and budget. Most major employers are located along the Knoxville Avenue corridor or near the river.

1. The Medical District & West Bluff: This is the heart of the action. Living here means a 5-10 minute commute to OSF Saint Francis, UnityPoint Methodist, and the UICOMP campus. It's a mix of historic homes, apartment complexes, and professional offices. It's walkable, safe, and filled with other healthcare professionals.

   • Rent (1BR): $900 - $1,200
   • Best For: Those who prioritize a short commute and a vibrant, professional atmosphere.

2. North Peoria (Knoxville Ave Corridor): This is the commercial and retail hub of the city. You'll find major shopping centers, restaurants, and chain pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens) here. It's suburban, with a mix of apartment complexes and single-family homes. Commutes to hospitals are still reasonable (15-20 minutes).

   • Rent (1BR): $750 - $950
   • Best For: Pharmacists working in retail, those who want modern amenities, and easy access to shopping and dining.

3. Downtown Peoria: The city's revitalization is centered here. You'll find loft apartments, local breweries, and a growing arts scene. Commuting to the medical district is easy via the Murray Baker Bridge (5-10 mins). It's ideal for those who want a more urban, energetic lifestyle.

   • Rent (1BR): $850 - $1,100
   • Best For: Young professionals who enjoy city life, restaurants, and a shorter commute to the hospitals.

4. Dunlap (Northwest Suburb): A top-rated school district and a very safe, family-oriented community. It's about a 25-30 minute commute to the hospitals, but the lifestyle is quiet and suburban. Housing is more affordable if you're looking to buy.

   • Rent (1BR/2BR): $700 - $900 (Note: fewer apartment options, more single-family rentals)
   • Best For: Pharmacists with families or those who prioritize school quality and a quieter setting.

5. Randolph Flats: A unique, historic neighborhood just south of downtown. Known for its "Flats" style homes, it's one of the most walkable and eclectic parts of the city. It's close to downtown amenities and a short drive to the hospitals.

   • Rent (1BR): $700 - $900
   • Best For: Those who want historic charm, a strong sense of community, and easy access to both downtown and the medical district.

The Long Game: Career Growth

While the overall job growth is a modest -3%, growth for qualified pharmacists in specific niches remains positive. In Peoria, career advancement is less about moving up a corporate ladder and more about specializing or moving into leadership.

• Specialty Premiums: The most significant salary boosts come from specialization. Pharmacists with residency training (PGY1 or PGY2) and board certifications are in high demand at OSF and UnityPoint. You can expect a premium of $10,000 - $20,000 above the median salary for roles in:

  • Oncology Pharmacy: OSF has a comprehensive cancer institute.
  • Infectious Diseases: A critical area in any major hospital system.
  • Critical Care: Working in the ICUs at OSF or UnityPoint.
  • Ambulatory Care: Managing chronic diseases in outpatient clinics.

• Advancement Paths:

  1. Clinical Specialist: Requires residency and certification. Focuses on direct patient care, protocol development, and student/preceptor roles.
  2. Pharmacy Manager (Retail/Hospital): Involves personnel management, inventory, budgeting, and regulatory compliance. Often a step up from a staff pharmacist role.
  3. Administrative Roles: Positions like Pharmacy Director or Assistant Director require an MBA or Pharm.D./MBA and focus on system-wide strategy, policy, and large-scale operations.

• 10-Year Outlook: The -3% growth means the market won't be expanding with new jobs. However, retirements will open up positions. The key to a successful 10-year career in Peoria is to specialize early. New graduates without a residency will likely find themselves competing for a shrinking pool of generalist positions. Investing in a PGY1 residency is the single best move for long-term career security and earning potential in this market.

The Verdict: Is Peoria Right for You?

Peoria offers a compelling value proposition for pharmacists, but it's not for everyone. It's a practical choice for those who prioritize financial stability, work-life balance, and a low cost of living over a fast-paced, high-growth metropolitan environment.

Pros	Cons
Excellent Salary-to-Cost-of-Living Ratio: Your $131,377 salary affords a very comfortable lifestyle, including homeownership.	Limited Job Growth: The -3% 10-year outlook means you need a clear, specialized career plan.
Major Healthcare Employers: OSF and UnityPoint provide stable, well-respected jobs with opportunities for specialization.	Smaller Job Market: With only 226 jobs, there are fewer opportunities than in larger cities.
Manageable Commutes: You can live affordably and be at work in under 20 minutes in most cases.	Regional City Feel: Lacks the cultural diversity, nightlife, and amenities of a major metropolis like Chicago.
Strong Community & Quality of Life: A friendly, Midwestern vibe with easy access to outdoor activities along the Illinois River.	Dependency on Car: Public transportation is limited; a reliable vehicle is a necessity.
Path to Homeownership: The housing market is highly accessible for professionals on a pharmacist's salary.	Slower Pace: If you thrive on constant change and a high-energy environment, Peoria may feel too quiet.

Final Recommendation: Peoria is an excellent choice for a pharmacist who is financially savvy, family-oriented, or seeking a better work-life balance. It's particularly well-suited for those who plan to pursue a clinical specialty or management track within its robust hospital systems. If you are a new graduate, securing a PGY1 residency is your most important step. If you're an experienced pharmacist tired of high costs and long commutes, Peoria offers a path to financial freedom and a high quality of life.

FAQs

1. Is the cost of living really that low?
Yes. With a Cost of Living Index of 88.6 (US average is 100), everything from groceries to housing is noticeably cheaper. Your $131,377 salary will feel more like $150,000+ in a high-cost-of-living area. The average rent of $756/month for a 1BR is a testament to this affordability.

2. What is the pharmacy community like in Peoria?
It's a tight-knit and collaborative professional community. Pharmacists from different systems (OSF, UnityPoint, retail) often know each other through local pharmacy association events (like the Peoria District Pharmaceutical Society) and community health initiatives. It's easy to build a network.

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