Pharmacist in Sioux City, IA

The Salary Picture: Where Sioux City Stands

Let's get straight to the numbers, because in Sioux City, the data tells a clear story. As a pharmacist, you're looking at a median salary of $131,173 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $63.06. This is a solid, middle-of-the-road figure for the profession, but it's crucial to understand how it fits into the local and regional landscape.

First, the national context. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports a national average salary for pharmacists of $136,030 per year. So, Sioux City sits about 3.5% below the national average. This isn't unusual for the Midwest; it reflects the city's lower cost of living. When you factor in that local purchasing power, this salary can feel significantly more robust.

Now, let's look at the local job market. Data from the BLS and local job boards indicates there are approximately 170 pharmacist positions in the Sioux City metro area. However, the 10-year job growth is projected at -3%. This is a critical piece of the puzzle. It signals a mature, stable market rather than a booming one. The decline is often attributed to pharmacy automation, corporate consolidation, and a slight oversupply of graduates in certain regions. This means you're not walking into a hiring frenzy; you're competing for established roles. Persistence, networking, and flexibility (like being open to part-time or per-diem shifts) are key to landing a good position.

Experience-Level Breakdown

While local salary surveys often provide a single median, we can extrapolate a realistic range based on industry standards and the Sioux City market. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect at different career stages.

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary (Sioux City)	Notes & Context
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$115,000 - $125,000	Typically starts in retail chains (Walgreens, Hy-Vee) or hospital staff roles. Focus is on building speed and accuracy.
Mid-Career (3-8 years)	$125,000 - $140,000	This is where the median of $131,173 sits. Common in clinical roles, independent pharmacies, or as a pharmacy manager in a chain.
Senior (9-15 years)	$135,000 - $155,000	Often in specialty roles (oncology, infectious disease), management, or as a clinical specialist in a hospital like MercyOne.
Expert/Managerial (15+ years)	$145,000 - $170,000+	Director of Pharmacy, pharmacy owner, or corporate/regional management. Top end is often tied to profit-sharing or ownership.

Comparison to Other Iowa Cities

How does Sioux City stack up against its Iowa peers? It's a mixed bag.

• Des Moines: The state capital has a larger market and a higher cost of living. Salaries are typically 5-10% higher, closer to the national average of $136,030. However, the commute and traffic are more significant.
• Cedar Rapids: Home to major employers like Collins Aerospace and major hospitals, the salary is competitive with Sioux City, but the job market might be slightly more diverse in non-retail settings.
• Davenport (Quad Cities): Similar economic profile to Sioux City, with a strong healthcare sector. Salaries are nearly identical, but the market is influenced by the larger Chicago-Milwaukee corridor.
• Iowa City: Home to the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics (a major employer), salaries at the UIHC are often at the top of the Iowa scale, but the cost of living is also higher, and the market is academically focused.

Insider Tip: Don't just chase the highest nominal salary. A $131,173 salary in Sioux City, with a Cost of Living Index of 88.1 (12% below the US average), often provides a better quality of life and savings potential than a $140,000 salary in Des Moines (Cost of Living Index ~95).

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The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Theoretical salaries are one thing; your actual monthly budget is another. Let's run the numbers for a single pharmacist earning the Sioux City median.

Assumptions for this breakdown:

• Gross Annual Salary: $131,173
• Filing Status: Single (no dependents)
• Retirement Contribution: 5% to a 401(k)
• Health Insurance: Moderate premium (employer-subsidized)

Monthly Budget Breakdown

Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Gross Monthly Income	$10,931	($131,173 / 12)
Taxes & Deductions	~$2,400	This is an estimate for federal/state taxes, FICA, and a 5% retirement contribution. Actual varies.
Net Take-Home Pay	~$8,531	This is your "real money" for the month.
Rent (1BR Average)	$780	The city-wide average. Could be $650 in a modest area or $950 in a premium location.
Utilities (Elec, Gas, Internet)	$200	Can be lower in older, well-insulated apartments.
Groceries	$400	Sioux City has excellent local markets (like the Sioux City Public Market) that can keep this cost reasonable.
Car Payment/Insurance	$400	Assuming a standard sedan payment and insurance. Public transit is limited, so a car is a necessity.
Other (Health, Personal)	$300	Gym, phone, subscriptions, etc.
Discretionary Income	~$6,451	$63.06/hour buys a lot of freedom here.

Can They Afford to Buy a Home?

Absolutely, and with significant ease compared to most US markets. The median home price in the Sioux City metro is approximately $180,000. For a pharmacist earning the local median, this is well within reach.

• 20% Down Payment: $36,000. With a net monthly income of over $8,500, saving this amount is feasible within 12-18 months of focused saving.
• Mortgage Payment: On a $144,000 loan (after down payment) at a 6.5% interest rate, the principal and interest would be around $910/month. Add taxes and insurance, and you're likely under $1,200/month.
• The Bottom Line: A pharmacist in Sioux City can comfortably own a single-family home in a good neighborhood while still having a substantial amount left for savings, travel, and entertainment. The Cost of Living Index of 88.1 is your best friend here.

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Where the Jobs Are: Sioux City's Major Employers

The job market isn't huge, but it's anchored by several key institutions. Knowing the players is essential for a targeted job search.

1. MercyOne Siouxland Medical Center: The largest hospital in the area, part of the national Trinity Health system. This is a primary source of hospital pharmacy jobs. They have a Level III Trauma Center and a busy ER, meaning their pharmacy is clinical and fast-paced. Hiring Trend: Conservative. They have a core team and hire for openings, which can be infrequent. They value experience and clinical certifications (like BCPS).

2. St. Luke's Regional Medical Center (Sanford Health): The other major hospital system, part of Sanford Health. Similar scale to MercyOne. They have a strong focus on specialty clinics and often have positions for clinical pharmacists in areas like oncology (at the cancer center) and cardiology. Hiring Trend: Slightly more growth-oriented than MercyOne, especially in specialty and outpatient roles.

3. Hy-Vee Drugstores: A Midwest grocery chain with a massive pharmacy footprint. Hy-Vee is a major employer in Sioux City, with over a dozen locations. They often promote from within and are known for a good work-life balance compared to some national chains. Hiring Trend: Active. They frequently have openings for full-time and part-time pharmacists, especially as they expand clinical services like vaccinations and health screenings.

4. Walgreens & CVS: The national chains have a strong presence. These are often the most common entry points for new graduates. The pace is high, but they offer structured training and opportunities for management. Hiring Trend: Steady turnover. These roles open up regularly due to transfers and promotions. It's a good way to get your foot in the door and learn the local market.

5. Siouxland Community Health Center: A Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) serving the community's underserved populations. They have an integrated pharmacy and often seek pharmacists passionate about public health and patient education. Hiring Trend: Growing. As the FQHC model expands, so do their pharmacy services. This is a great option for those seeking mission-driven work.

6. Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center: Located in nearby Dakota Dunes (a 15-minute drive), the VA is a significant federal employer. VA pharmacy jobs offer excellent benefits, job security, and a focus on veteran care. Hiring Trend: Stable with occasional openings. The hiring process is federal and can be slow, but the positions are highly coveted.

Insider Tip: Many of these employers use a centralized "Career" portal on their websites. Check them all, and don't hesitate to apply directly. For hospital roles, having a BCPS (Board Certified Pharmacotherapy Specialist) certification can be a major differentiator in a competitive application pool.

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Getting Licensed in Iowa

If you're moving from another state, the licensure process is non-negotiable. Here’s the step-by-step.

1. Verify Your Education: Your Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) must be from an ACPE-accredited program. Most US programs meet this, but you'll need to submit transcripts directly to the Iowa Board of Pharmacy.

2. Pass the Required Exams:

• NAPLEX (North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination): This is a national exam. You must pass this to be licensed anywhere.
• MPJE (Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination): This is the state-specific law exam. Iowa has its own version. You need to study Iowa pharmacy law specifically. The Iowa Board provides a candidate guide.

3. Complete the Application: Apply online through the Iowa Board of Pharmacy website. You'll need to:

• Submit your NAPLEX and MPJE scores.
• Provide a passport-style photo.
• Pay the application fee (currently $230 for an initial license).
• Undergo a criminal background check (fingerprinting required, cost ~$45).

4. Timeline and Cost Breakdown:

• Exam Registration: ~$800 (combined NAPLEX/MPJE fees)
• Application & Background Check: ~$275
• Total Estimated Cost: ~$1,100 (excluding study materials)
• Timeline: Once you submit a complete application, the Iowa Board typically processes it in 4-6 weeks. Plan for a total of 2-3 months from starting the application to receiving your license.

For Pharmacists Already Licensed in Another State: Iowa is a member of the Pharmacy Compact. This can streamline the process, but you still must meet Iowa's specific requirements. You will need to apply for licensure by reciprocity. The same fees and background check apply. Always check the Iowa Board of Pharmacy website first for the most current rules, as they can change.

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Best Neighborhoods for Pharmacists

Sioux City's neighborhoods are diverse, offering different lifestyles and price points. Here’s a guide to finding your fit.

1. Morningside: This is arguably the most desirable neighborhood for young professionals and new families. It's centrally located, has beautiful, mature trees, good schools, and a mix of historic homes and modern apartments. It's close to both major hospitals and downtown. Commute: 5-15 minutes to most employers. Rent Estimate: A nice 1BR apartment can be found for $800 - $950.

2. Indian Hills: An upscale, established neighborhood on the north side. Features large, custom-built homes, quiet streets, and is close to the Sioux City Country Club. It's a bit more suburban and family-oriented. Commute: 10-20 minutes to downtown/hospitals. Rent Estimate: 1BR apartments are less common; you'll likely find a duplex or townhome for $900 - $1,100.

3. Downtown/Lakeport: The heart of the city's revitalization. You'll find modern loft apartments, historic buildings, and a growing scene of restaurants and shops. Perfect for someone who wants a walkable, urban feel. Commute: Walk or bike to many downtown jobs; a 5-10 minute drive to hospitals. Rent Estimate: 1BR loft apartments range from $850 - $1,200.

4. South Sioux City (Nebraska): Just across the Missouri River, this is technically a different city and state! It's often more affordable, with larger homes and a different tax structure. It's a popular option for those working at the hospitals on the Iowa side. Commute: 10-15 minutes to MercyOne/St. Luke's via the I-29 bridge. Rent Estimate: 1BR apartments are very reasonable, often $650 - $800.

5. Leeds: A quieter, residential neighborhood on the west side. It's more affordable and has a strong community feel. It's a bit further from the core, but still a manageable commute. Commute: 15-25 minutes to most employers. Rent Estimate: 1BR apartments can be found for $700 - $850.

Insider Tip: Traffic in Sioux City is minimal. Your commute will be more about distance than congestion. When considering a job in South Sioux City (Nebraska), remember you'll pay Iowa income tax but Nebraska property tax—it's worth running the numbers.

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The Long Game: Career Growth

The -3% job growth forecast means you can't just coast. Career advancement requires deliberate planning.

Specialty Premiums: General retail pharmacy is the baseline. To increase your earning potential and job security, consider specializing.

• Clinical Pharmacy (Hospital): A BCPS certification can add $5,000 - $15,000 to your salary in a hospital setting.
• Oncology/Infectious Disease: These are high-demand, high-skill areas in hospitals. Salaries can be 10-20% above the median.
• Ambulatory Care: Working in a clinic setting (e.g., anticoagulation, diabetes management) is a growing field. It offers a more predictable schedule than retail.
• Ownership: The path to the highest earnings is owning an independent pharmacy. This is high-risk but high-reward. Sioux City still has a few successful independents, but they compete with the chains.

Advancement Paths:

1. Retail: Staff Pharmacist → Pharmacy Manager → District Manager → Corporate Role. The top end here is in management and operations.
2. Hospital: Staff Pharmacist → Clinical Specialist (with certification) → Clinical Coordinator → Director of Pharmacy. Requires advanced degrees (e.g., MS, MBA) for leadership.
3. Industry: Not a major market in Sioux City, but remote roles in medical affairs, managed care, or pharma sales are possible with the right network.

10-Year Outlook: The profession is evolving. The role is shifting from pill-dispensing to patient-care. Pharmacists who embrace this—through immunizations, MTM (Medication Therapy Management), and chronic disease management—will thrive. In Sioux City, this means building relationships with local providers and becoming a trusted health resource. The market may be small, but for a pharmacist who is proactive and specialized, there is stability and a solid career path.

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The Verdict: Is Sioux City Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Unbeatable Affordability: A $131,173 salary stretches incredibly far with an 88.1 Cost of Living Index. You can own a home and save aggressively.	Limited Job Market: With only ~170 jobs and negative growth, openings are competitive. You may need to be flexible on role or employer.
Strong Community & Quality of Life: Easy commutes, low crime, and a genuine Midwestern friendliness. Great for families or those seeking a slower pace.	Limited Entertainment/Nightlife: It's a family-friendly city. You won't find the arts, dining, or cultural scene of a major metropolis.
Solid Healthcare Anchor: Two major hospital systems and a VA provide a stable core of clinical and hospital pharmacy jobs.	Weather: Winters are long, cold, and snowy. Summers are hot and humid. If you hate extreme weather, it's a factor.
Central Location: Perfect for weekend trips to Omaha, Des Moines, or the Black Hills of South Dakota. A gateway to the Great Plains.	Professional Network: Smaller events and conferences. You'll need to be proactive in building your network beyond the city.

Final Recommendation:

Sioux City is an excellent choice for the pragmatic pharmacist. If your primary goal is financial stability, the ability to buy a home quickly, and a high quality of life without the stress