Career Guide for Pharmacists in Round Rock, TX

As someone who’s watched Round Rock evolve from a quiet suburb into a tech-forward hub, I can tell you that the pharmacy landscape here is uniquely shaped by its explosive growth. The city isn't just a bedroom community for Austin anymore; it's a destination with its own robust healthcare and retail infrastructure. If you're a pharmacist considering a move here, you need grounded data and local insights—not just job board listings. This guide breaks down the reality of the profession in Round Rock, from your paycheck potential to the commute down I-35.

The Salary Picture: Where Round Rock Stands

Let's get the numbers out of the way first. Pharmacy salaries in Round Rock are competitive, but they sit slightly below the national average. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and local market data, the median salary for a pharmacist in the Round Rock metro area is $135,050 per year, which translates to an hourly rate of $64.93. This is just shy of the national average of $136,030. The metro area supports 263 pharmacist jobs, a stable but not explosive number. The 10-year job growth is projected at -3%, reflecting national trends toward automation and retail consolidation, but also opening doors in specialized and clinical roles.

Here’s how that breaks down by experience level. These are estimated ranges based on local postings and industry benchmarks:

Experience Level	Annual Salary Range	Key Factors in Round Rock
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)	$115,000 - $125,000	Often starts in retail chains (H-E-B, CVS). Hospital residencies are competitive.
Mid-Level (3-7 yrs)	$125,000 - $140,000	Move into independent pharmacies, specialty clinics, or hospital staff roles.
Senior-Level (8-15 yrs)	$140,000 - $155,000	Management, clinical specialist roles (oncology, infectious disease), or corporate.
Expert/Leadership (15+ yrs)	$155,000+	Director of Pharmacy (hospital), regional corporate management, or niche consultant.

Comparing to other Texas cities, Round Rock offers a compelling balance. Austin proper pays slightly more (median ~$138K) but comes with a steeper cost of living. San Antonio's median is closer to $132K, and Dallas-Fort Worth is around $134K. Round Rock’s advantage is its strategic location—you get Austin-area wages without the downtown Austin price tag. For a pharmacist, this means you can often afford a larger home here than you could in Travis County, while still accessing the broader Austin job market if needed.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

A $135,050 salary sounds great, but let’s talk about what it means for your day-to-day life in Round Rock. After federal, state, and FICA taxes, a single filer can expect to take home roughly $95,000 to $100,000 annually, or about $7,900 to $8,300 per month. This is an estimate; your actual take-home will depend on deductions for health insurance, 401(k), etc.

Here’s a realistic monthly budget breakdown for a single pharmacist earning the median salary:

Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Rent (1BR Apartment)	$1,635	Average for Round Rock. Newer units in The Domain or near I-35 can be higher.
Utilities (Electric, Water, Internet)	$180	Texas summers will spike your electric bill.
Groceries	$350	H-E-B is the go-to; prices are reasonable compared to national chains.
Car Payment & Insurance	$500	Essential. Public transit (CapMetro) is limited to major corridors.
Health Insurance	$150	If not fully covered by employer.
Miscellaneous (Dining, Entertainment)	$400	Round Rock has a growing food scene, especially around the downtown area.
Student Loans	$400	Pharmacy school debt average; adjust as needed.
Total Expenditures	$3,615
Remaining (Savings/Investment)	~$4,285 - $4,685

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely. The median home price in Round Rock is approximately $410,000 (as of 2023). With a strong down payment (20% = $82,000), a monthly mortgage payment (including taxes and insurance) would be around $2,200-$2,400. For a single earner at the median salary, this is very manageable, keeping housing costs at a healthy ~28% of take-home pay. For families or dual-income households, it’s even easier. Neighborhoods like Forest Creek or Teravista offer newer homes with good schools, making them popular with healthcare professionals.

Where the Jobs Are: Round Rock's Major Employers

Round Rock’s pharmacy job market is a mix of national chains, a major hospital system, and a growing network of independent and specialty pharmacies. Hiring is steady, but competition for hospital and clinical roles is fierce. Here’s a breakdown of the key players:

1. Baylor Scott & White Medical Center - Round Rock: This is the premier employer for clinical and hospital pharmacy roles. They have a Level III Trauma Center and a growing oncology department. Hiring trends show a demand for pharmacists with BCPS (Board Certified Pharmacotherapy Specialist) credentials. They often offer residency programs, which are a gateway to a hospital career.

2. H-E-B Pharmacy: H-E-B is a Texas institution, and their pharmacy network is massive. In Round Rock, they have several locations (e.g., on I-35 and in the Round Rock Premium Outlets area). They are known for competitive pay, strong benefits, and a community-focused culture. Hiring is frequent for retail positions, with opportunities for advancement to pharmacy manager roles.

3. CVS Health & Walgreens: The national chains are ubiquitous. CVS has a large presence with both retail and their MinuteClinic locations. Walgreens is similarly prevalent. These are the most accessible entry points but often come with high-volume, metrics-driven environments. Turnover can be higher, creating openings.

4. Round Rock Specialty Pharmacy: This independent focuses on complex medications (e.g., for rare diseases, oncology). They represent the trend toward specialty pharmacy, which offers higher salaries and more clinical engagement. Hiring is less frequent but highly sought after by those wanting to escape retail metrics.

5. Austin Regional Clinic (ARC) - Round Rock: A large multi-specialty clinic with an on-site pharmacy. They offer a hybrid role that blends retail and clinical services, working closely with prescribers. This is a great option for pharmacists who want a clinic setting without the 24/7 hospital environment.

6. UT Health Austin (Dell Medical School): While the main campus is in Austin, their influence and satellite clinics extend into Round Rock. They often have specialized pharmacy roles tied to their research and academic missions, particularly in areas like oncology or primary care innovation.

7. Independent Pharmacies (e.g., Round Rock Pharmacy, The Medicine Shoppe): Several independents serve the community, focusing on personalized service and compounding. They are a good fit for pharmacists who want more autonomy and direct patient relationships. Hiring is often through networking and word-of-mouth.

Getting Licensed in TX

Texas licensure is straightforward but requires diligence. The Texas State Board of Pharmacy (TSBP) oversees the process. Here’s what you need to know:

• Requirements: You must graduate from a ACPE-accredited Pharm.D. program, pass the North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination (NAPLEX), and pass the Texas Jurisprudence Examination (MPJE). You must also complete a fingerprint-based background check.
• Costs: The total cost is roughly $400-$600. This includes the NAPLEX fee ($480), MPJE fee ($50), and Texas licensing application fee (~$100). Fingerprinting adds another $50. If you're an out-of-state pharmacist, you'll need to check for reciprocity requirements, which may involve additional documentation.
• Timeline: The process can take 2-4 months post-graduation. The TSBP website is the definitive source; their processing times can vary. I recommend starting your application as soon as you have your NAPLEX score. For an out-of-state transfer, plan for an additional 1-2 months for credential verification.

Insider Tip: Texas is an "open practice" state, meaning you don't need a collaborative practice agreement (CPA) to perform certain clinical services, but having one can expand your role, especially in a hospital or clinic setting. Many employers in Round Rock will assist with or require CPA creation as part of your onboarding.

Best Neighborhoods for Pharmacists

Where you live in Round Rock impacts your commute, lifestyle, and budget. The city is bisected by I-35, creating distinct east and west sides, with newer development to the north.

1. Teravista (West Side): A master-planned community with excellent schools (Round Rock ISD), parks, and golf courses. It's quieter, family-oriented, and about 15-20 minutes from Baylor Scott & White. Rent for a 1BR starts around $1,600, but you'll likely want a 2BR or townhome. Best for: Families, those seeking a suburban feel.

2. The Domain Area (North Austin, 5-10 mins from Round Rock): Technically in Austin, but it's the go-to for young professionals who want an urban feel. High-rise apartments, walkable shops, and easy access to both Austin and Round Rock via I-35. Rent is higher ($1,800-$2,200 for 1BR). Best for: Single pharmacists who want nightlife and a shorter commute to Austin-based employers.

3. Forest Creek (East Side): Established neighborhood with mature trees, larger homes, and a strong community feel. Closer to H-E-B and retail corridors. Commute to major hospitals is 10-15 minutes. Rent for a 1BR apartment is near the city average ($1,600), but the area is more house-focused. Best for: Those wanting a balance of suburbia and convenience.

4. Downtown Round Rock: The historic core is walkable, with local coffee shops, restaurants, and a growing arts scene. It's compact, and you're close to everything. Housing is a mix of older apartments and new townhomes. Rent is moderate ($1,500-$1,700 for 1BR). Best for: Urbanites on a budget who want character and a short commute.

5. Brushy Creek/Stonebridge (West/North): Popular with families, featuring good schools and easy access to major employers like Dell (for spouses) and H-E-B stores. Commute times are similar to Teravista. Rent is comparable to other suburbs ($1,600-$1,800). Best for: Established professionals looking for a strong community and top-rated schools.

The Long Game: Career Growth

While the 10-year job growth is -3%, this doesn't tell the whole story. It reflects a decline in traditional retail roles due to automation and telepharmacy. However, growth is strong in specialized areas. In Round Rock, this means:

• Specialty Premiums: Pharmacists with certifications in oncology, infectious disease, or diabetes management can command a $10,000-$20,000 premium over the median salary. Baylor Scott & White and specialty pharmacies are the primary employers for this.
• Advancement Paths: The traditional path is Staff Pharmacist → Pharmacy Manager → Pharmacy Director (hospital) or District Manager (retail). The newer, high-growth path is into clinical pharmacy, informatics, or managed care. With Austin's tech scene, there's also a growing niche for pharmacists in health tech and pharmaceutical sales, though these are less common in Round Rock itself.
• 10-Year Outlook: The outlook is stable but requires adaptation. Pharmacists who embrace technology (e.g., telehealth, medication therapy management software) and pursue advanced certifications will thrive. The demand for senior clinical pharmacists in hospitals and large clinics (like ARC) will likely increase as healthcare systems seek to improve outcomes and reduce costs.

The Verdict: Is Round Rock Right for You?

Here’s a quick summary to help you decide.

Pros	Cons
Cost-Effective Living: The Cost of Living Index of 97.6 means your salary goes further than in Austin.	Job Growth is Flat: The -3% 10-year growth means you need to be strategic about specialization.
Strategic Location: Easy access to Austin's broader job market and amenities without the traffic and cost.	Car-Dependent: You'll need a car. Public transit is not a viable primary option.
Stable Employers: Presence of major hospital systems (Baylor) and large retailers (H-E-B) provides job security.	Limited Nightlife: Compared to Austin, Round Rock is quieter and more suburban.
Growing City: The population (131,735) and infrastructure are expanding, offering long-term potential.	Competition for the Best Jobs: Clinical and hospital roles are competitive; networking is key.
Quality of Life: Excellent schools, parks, and a family-friendly environment.	Summer Heat: Texas summers are brutal and can be a deal-breaker for some.

Final Recommendation: Round Rock is an excellent choice for pharmacists who are at a mid-career stage, value financial stability, and prioritize a family-friendly lifestyle. It's particularly well-suited for those looking to transition from retail to clinical roles or to buy a home without being house-poor. If you are an early-career pharmacist seeking a high-energy, specialized training environment, you might find more opportunities in downtown Austin or larger metro areas initially. However, for a sustainable, well-compensated career with room to grow, Round Rock presents a compelling, data-backed case.

FAQs

1. Is the pharmacist job market in Round Rock saturated?
Not saturated, but competitive for the best roles. There are 263 jobs in the metro, which is stable. The key is to not limit yourself to retail chains. The real growth is in clinical, specialty, and hospital positions, where demand is more consistent. Networking with local pharmacists at events hosted by the Texas Pharmacy Association can give you an edge.

2. How does the cost of living really compare to Austin?
Significantly better. While Austin's median rent for a 1BR is over $1,900, Round Rock's average is $1,635. When you factor in property taxes (which are high in Texas but often slightly lower in Williamson County than Travis County), housing is the biggest savings. You can expect to spend 5-10% less on overall living expenses in Round Rock compared to Austin proper.

3. What’s the best way to find a job in Round Rock before moving?
Start with the big employers' career pages (Baylor Scott & White, H-E-B, CVS). LinkedIn is also critical—search for "Pharmacist Round Rock" and connect with current staff. For hospital roles, look for postings on the Texas Hospital Association's job board. Many independents don't post online, so a call or visit when you're in town can be effective.

4. Do I need a residency to get a good hospital job here?
Not always, but it helps immensely. Baylor Scott & White Round Rock has a PGY1 residency program, and graduates of such programs are given priority. For a non-residency candidate, having 2-3 years of relevant experience (e.g., in a clinical setting) and pursuing a BCPS certification is the most viable path. Retail experience alone is less valued for hospital roles.

5. What’s the commute like from Round Rock to Austin?
If your job is in Round Rock, your commute is minimal—often 10-20 minutes. If you live in Round Rock but work in Austin, the commute can be 30-45 minutes on I-35, which is notoriously congested during peak hours. Many pharmacists choose to live in Round Rock and work locally to avoid this. The Domain area is a good compromise for those needing occasional access to Austin.

Sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, Texas State Board of Pharmacy, Zillow Research, RentCafe, Round Rock Economic Development, Employer career pages (2023-2024).