Pharmacist in Virginia Beach, VA

The Salary Picture: Where Virginia Beach Stands

If you're a pharmacist looking at Virginia Beach, you're looking at a market that pays solidly but sits slightly below the national average. The median salary for a pharmacist here is $134,968/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $64.89/hour. For context, the national average for pharmacists across the U.S. is $136,030/year, meaning Virginia Beach is just a hair behind the curve, but the cost of living is also a touch lower than the national average, which helps balance the scales.

Let's break this down by experience level. While the median figure covers a broad spectrum, your earning potential will shift based on your years in the field, your specialty, and the type of employer. The data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and local job postings paint a clear picture.

Experience-Level Breakdown

Experience Level	Typical Salary Range (Virginia Beach)	Key Factors for Higher Pay
Entry-Level (0-3 years)	$110,000 - $125,000	Retail chains, hospital residencies, starting in community pharmacy. Signing bonuses are common here to attract new talent.
Mid-Career (4-10 years)	$125,000 - $145,000	Moving into clinical roles, specialty pharmacy, or management. Experience with electronic health records (EHR) and anticoagulation management is highly valued.
Senior (10-20 years)	$145,000 - $160,000	Often in lead pharmacist roles, pharmacy supervisors, or clinical specialists. Inpatient hospital roles at major systems see the top of this range.
Expert (20+ years)	$160,000+	Director-level positions, specialized oncology or infectious disease pharmacists, or owners of independent pharmacies. Contracting and consulting gigs can push this higher.

Comparison to Other Virginia Cities

Virginia Beach isn't the highest-paying city in the state, but it offers a unique balance. Here’s how it stacks up:

City	Median Pharmacist Salary	Cost of Living Index (US Avg=100)	Key Employer Notes
Virginia Beach	$134,968	97.4	Major hospital systems, retail chains, military presence.
Richmond	$138,250	95.5	State capital, VCU Health system, higher concentration of corporate roles.
Northern Virginia	$152,500+	140+	Highest salaries in the state, but cost of living (especially housing) is dramatically higher. Driven by federal contracting and large hospital networks.
Roanoke	$128,800	87.2	Lower cost of living, but salaries and job volume are also lower. More regional hospital focus.

Insider Tip: Don't just look at the salary number. The $134,968 median in Virginia Beach stretches further than the same salary in Northern Virginia. With a cost of living index of 97.4 (slightly below the U.S. average of 100) and an average 1BR rent of $1,287/month, your disposable income can be quite healthy here, especially if you're moving from a higher-cost coastal city.

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The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get practical. A gross salary of $134,968 sounds great, but what does life actually look like? For this calculation, we'll assume you're a single filer with no dependents, taking the standard deduction, and living in an average 1BR apartment. (Note: This is a simplified estimate; actual take-home pay will vary based on your specific tax situation, health insurance premiums, and retirement contributions.)

Annual Gross Salary: $134,968
Estimated Annual Taxes (Federal, FICA, State): ~$31,000
Estimated Annual Take-Home Pay: $103,968
Monthly Take-Home Pay: $8,664

Monthly Budget Breakdown

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Rent (1BR Average)	$1,287	This is the city-wide average. You can find cheaper in suburbs like Kempsville or more expensive near the oceanfront.
Utilities (Electric, Water, Internet)	$200	Coastal Virginia humidity can drive summer AC costs.
Groceries	$450	A reasonable budget for one person, shopping at local chains like Food Lion or Harris Teeter.
Car Payment & Insurance	$500	Virginia Beach is a driving city. Public transit (Hampton Roads Transit) exists but is limited for commuters.
Gas & Maintenance	$250	Average commute is 20-25 minutes.
Health Insurance (Post-Employer)	$300	Assuming you're single and your employer covers a portion.
Entertainment/Dining	$500	Beach activities, concerts at the Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater, and dining in Town Center.
Savings/Debt/Other	$5,177	This is where you can really build wealth. Most pharmacists here allocate a significant portion to student loan repayment, retirement (401k/457b), and saving for a down payment.

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely. With a monthly surplus of over $5,000, you are in a prime position to save for a down payment. The median home price in Virginia Beach is around $365,000 (as of early 2024). A 20% down payment is $73,000. With your budget, you could save that in under two years, all while living comfortably. This is a major advantage over markets like Northern Virginia or California, where home prices can be 2-3x higher.

Insider Tip: Many pharmacists here partner with local credit unions like Chartway or Chartway Federal Credit Union, which often have better mortgage rates for healthcare professionals. Also, consider a condo or townhome in a neighborhood like Princess Anne Plaza for a more manageable entry into the housing market.

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Where the Jobs Are: Virginia Beach's Major Employers

The job market for pharmacists in Virginia Beach is robust, with over 907 positions in the metro area. The 10-year job growth is projected at -3%, which might seem concerning. However, this is a national trend reflecting automation and consolidation in retail pharmacy. The key is to target the right employers—specifically, those in hospital, clinical, and specialty settings where the role remains irreplaceable.

Here are the major local employers you need to know:

1. Sentara Healthcare: The 800-pound gorilla of Hampton Roads. They run Sentara Princess Anne Hospital, Sentara Norfolk General (a Level I trauma center, a short drive away), and numerous outpatient pharmacies. They have a massive pharmacy residency program and are always hiring for clinical, inpatient, and managerial roles. Hiring is steady, especially for those with a Pharm.D. and a residency.

2. Bon Secours Mercy Health: Another major system with a strong presence. Bon Secours operates Maryview Medical Center in nearby Portsmouth and a network of outpatient clinics. They often have opportunities for pharmacists specializing in ambulatory care, particularly in primary care settings.

3. Chesapeake Regional Healthcare: While based in neighboring Chesapeake, it's a major employer for the entire Hampton Roads region. Their pharmacy team is known for being innovative, with roles in medication therapy management (MTM) and transitions of care.

4. VA Medical Center (Hampton): The Hampton VA Medical Center is a huge federal employer just a 20-minute drive from Virginia Beach. Federal positions come with exceptional benefits, job security, and a clear career ladder. They have openings in inpatient, outpatient, and long-term care. The application process is through USAJOBS and can be lengthy, but it's worth it for the stability.

5. Retail Chains (CVS, Walgreens, Walmart): These are the backbone of community pharmacy. While national trends show some consolidation, there is still a constant need for pharmacists in this sector. Hiring can be cyclical, but it's often the fastest path to a job. Look for roles in the Town Center, Hilltop, or near the oceanfront for high-volume stores.

6. Kroger & Harris Teeter: These grocery-store pharmacies offer a slightly different pace than the big chains. They often have a more community-focused feel and can be a good fit for pharmacists who want a balance between clinical work and customer interaction.

Hiring Trends: The trend is toward clinical and specialized roles. Hospitals and health systems are expanding their decentralized pharmacy services. A pharmacist with a BCPS (Board Certified Pharmacotherapy Specialist) or BCACP (Ambulatory Care) credential will have a significant edge. The retail sector is more saturated, so competition for those jobs is higher.

Insider Tip: Network with pharmacists at the local Virginia Pharmacy Association (VPhA) meetings. Many jobs, especially in the hospital system, are filled through word-of-mouth before they're ever posted online.

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Getting Licensed in VA

If you're moving from another state, you'll need to get licensed by the Virginia Board of Pharmacy. The process is straightforward but requires attention to detail.

Step-by-Step:

1. Pass the NAPLEX: You must pass the North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination (NAPLEX). This is a national exam.
2. Pass the MPJE: You must pass the Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination (MPJE) for Virginia. This is a state-specific law exam.
3. Submit Your Application: Apply directly through the Virginia Board of Pharmacy's online portal. You'll need to provide transcripts, proof of exam scores, and a background check.
4. Complete the Controlled Substance Registration: Once licensed, you'll need to register with the DEA if you plan to handle controlled substances (which you will).

Costs & Timeline:

• NAPLEX Fee: $595
• MPJE Fee: $200
• Virginia Application Fee: $125
• Background Check: ~$50
• Total Estimated Cost: ~$970

Timeline: If you've already passed your exams, the Virginia Board of Pharmacy typically processes applications in 4-6 weeks. However, it's wise to start the process 2-3 months before your planned move. If you need to take the MPJE, factor in time to study for the state-specific laws.

Insider Tip: The Virginia MPJE is known for being tricky because of the state's unique regulations around pharmacy practice settings and controlled substances. Use the official state resources and consider a prep course. The VPhA website is a great resource for study materials.

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Best Neighborhoods for Pharmacists

Virginia Beach is a city of distinct neighborhoods, each with a different vibe and commute time. Your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a walkable lifestyle, a short commute, or a quiet suburban feel.

1. Town Center: This is the urban core of Virginia Beach. It's a mixed-use district with high-rise apartments, offices, and shopping. It's a short, easy commute to Sentara Princess Anne Hospital and many corporate offices. The vibe is professional and modern. Rent for a 1BR: $1,450 - $1,700/month.

2. Kempsville: A large, established suburb in the central part of the city. It's family-friendly with excellent schools, plenty of shopping, and a more affordable housing stock. The commute to major hospitals is reasonable (20-30 minutes). Rent for a 1BR: $1,100 - $1,350/month.

3. Princess Anne/University Area: Home to Old Dominion University (ODU) and a mix of students and young professionals. It's more affordable, with a younger energy. Commute to the main hospital corridors is easy via I-264 or I-64. Rent for a 1BR: $950 - $1,250/month.

4. Oceanfront (North End): For those who want the quintessential coastal lifestyle. You'll pay a premium for proximity to the beach. The commute to the main business districts can be longer, especially during tourist season. Rent for a 1BR: $1,500 - $2,000+/month.

5. Chesapeake (Suburban Alternative): While not technically Virginia Beach, many pharmacists live in neighboring Chesapeake for more space and lower property taxes. Commutes to Virginia Beach employers are very manageable (20-40 minutes). Rent for a 1BR: $1,050 - $1,300/month.

Insider Tip: Traffic in Hampton Roads is real, but it's predictable. The main choke point is the HRBT (Hampton Roads Bridge Tunnel). If you work at a hospital in Norfolk or Hampton, avoid living on the other side of the tunnel. Living in Virginia Beach and working at Sentara Princess Anne is a dream commute—often under 15 minutes.

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The Long Game: Career Growth

While the overall job growth is projected at -3%, this doesn't mean the field is dead. It means the nature of the job is changing. To thrive long-term in Virginia Beach, you need to specialize and adapt.

Specialty Premiums & Advancement Paths:

• Oncology & Specialty Pharmacy: This is where the growth is. With a major cancer center like the Sentara Leigh Hospital Oncology unit (part of the broader system), pharmacists with oncology certification (BCOP) can command salaries at the top of the scale, often $150,000+.
• Ambulatory Care: With the rise of value-based care, pharmacists in primary care settings are invaluable. Getting a BCACP can lead to roles managing chronic diseases like diabetes and hypertension directly in the clinic.
• Infectious Diseases: Given the military presence and the post-pandemic focus, ID pharmacists are in high demand at the VA and large hospitals.
• Leadership: Moving into a Pharmacy Manager or Director role typically requires an advanced degree (MBA or MHA) and several years of experience. The pay jump is significant, often into the $160,000+ range.

10-Year Outlook: The retail sector will continue to consolidate, but the demand for clinical, decentralized pharmacists will grow. The military and veteran population in Hampton Roads provides a stable, recession-proof base of patients. The key to a 10-year career here is to leave the dispensing counter as soon as you can and move into a role where your clinical judgment is the primary asset.

Insider Tip: Enroll in a BCPS or BCACP prep course within your first two years. The cost of the exam is an investment that will pay for itself in your first year of a specialty raise. Many local health systems offer tuition reimbursement for certification.

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The Verdict: Is Virginia Beach Right for You?

This isn't a decision to take lightly. Here’s a final, honest breakdown.

Pros	Cons
Strong Take-Home Pay: The $134,968 median salary goes far with the local cost of living.	Limited Job Growth: The -3% forecast means you must be strategic about your specialty.
Affordable Housing: You can buy a home here on a pharmacist's salary, which is rare in coastal cities.	Competition in Retail: The community pharmacy market is saturated; hospital jobs are more competitive.
Diverse Employer Base: From massive hospital systems to the federal VA, you have options.	Traffic & Commute: The HRBT is a notorious bottleneck; geography matters.
Lifestyle Perks: Beach access, state parks, and a mild climate are hard to beat.	Limited Public Transit: You will need a reliable car.
Stable Patient Population: The military and veteran community provides consistent demand.	Slower Pace: If you crave the energy of NYC or D.C., Virginia Beach may feel too laid-back.

Final Recommendation:

Virginia Beach is an excellent choice for pharmacists who value work-life balance, financial stability, and an outdoor lifestyle. It's particularly ideal for:

• Pharmacists with 3-10 years of experience looking to buy their first home.
• Those interested in hospital or clinical pharmacy, especially with a residency or specialty certification.
• Professionals who want a "best of both worlds" city—urban amenities without the extreme cost of living.

It is a poor fit for:

• Pharmacists solely focused on retail management in a competitive, consolidating market.
• Those who prioritize a fast-paced, high-energy urban environment above all else.
• Individuals unwilling to navigate the specific regulatory and licensing steps for Virginia.

The bottom line: If you're a pharmacist who can specialize, Virginia Beach offers a rare combination of a solid salary ($134,968), a manageable cost of living, and a high quality of life. It's a market that rewards strategic career moves and punishes complacency.

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FAQs

1. Is the market saturated?
For general community pharmacy, yes, it's competitive. However, there is a significant shortage of clinical and specialty pharmacists in hospital and ambulatory care settings. If you have a residency or board certification, you will be a highly sought-after candidate.

2. How important is a residency?
In Virginia Beach, a PGY-1 residency is the gold standard for landing a job in a hospital system like Sentara