Pharmacy Technician in Moore, OK

Of course. Here is a comprehensive career guide for Pharmacy Technicians considering a move to Moore, Oklahoma.

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The Salary Picture: Where Moore Stands

As a Pharmacy Technician in Moore, your earning potential is directly tied to your experience, the setting you work in (retail vs. hospital), and your specific certifications. Let's break down the local data against the national backdrop.

The median salary for a Pharmacy Technician in Moore is $39,211 per year, which translates to an hourly rate of $18.85. It's important to understand that this is the median—meaning half of all technicians in the metro area earn more, and half earn less. This figure sits slightly below the national average of $40,300/year, but the lower cost of living in Moore can often make that salary go further than it would in a more expensive city.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you can expect to earn based on your level of experience in the Moore area:

Experience Level	Typical Years of Experience	Estimated Annual Salary Range
Entry-Level	0-2 years	$32,000 - $37,000
Mid-Career	2-7 years	$37,000 - $42,000
Senior-Level	7-15 years	$42,000 - $48,000
Expert/Lead	15+ years	$48,000 - $55,000+

Note: These ranges are estimates based on local job postings and industry data. Certified technicians (CPhT) can command salaries at the higher end of these ranges.

When you compare Moore to other major Oklahoma cities, the salary landscape reveals some interesting nuances. While Oklahoma City and Tulsa offer higher median salaries, they also come with a significantly higher cost of living and longer commute times. For a Pharmacy Technician, the combination of a stable salary and a very affordable living environment makes Moore a highly competitive option.

City	Median Annual Salary	Cost of Living Index (US Avg=100)	1BR Avg Rent
Moore	$39,211	91.0	$773
Oklahoma City	$40,150	92.5	$950
Tulsa	$39,800	90.5	$890
Norman	$38,500	91.5	$820

Insider Tip: Don't just look at the top-line salary number. A $1,000 difference in annual pay becomes negligible when your rent is $200 less per month. In Moore, your paycheck stretches further, which is a tangible financial benefit.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get practical. What does a $39,211 annual salary really feel like in Moore? We'll use conservative estimates for taxes and the local average for rent.

Monthly Budget Breakdown for a Pharmacy Technician in Moore:

• Gross Monthly Pay: $39,211 / 12 = $3,268
• Estimated Taxes (Federal, FICA, State): ~$650 (approx. 20% effective rate)
• Net Monthly Pay (Take-Home): $2,618
• Average 1BR Rent: $773
• Remaining After Rent: $1,845

This $1,845 has to cover everything else: utilities (gas, electric, water, internet), groceries, car payment/insurance, fuel, health insurance (if not covered by employer), and any personal spending or savings.

Can they afford to buy a home?
Yes, but it requires careful budgeting. The median home price in Moore is approximately $185,000. With a 3.5% down payment ($6,475), a 30-year fixed mortgage at 6.5% would have a monthly payment (including property taxes and insurance) of around $1,450. This is a larger portion of your take-home pay than the recommended 30% rule, leaving only about $1,168 for all other expenses. It's feasible, especially for dual-income households, but tight for a single earner. The lower cost of living compared to a national average is a significant advantage here.

Where the Jobs Are: Moore's Major Employers

Moore's pharmacy job market is stable, anchored by national chains and regional healthcare systems. The metro area has 126 jobs for Pharmacy Technicians, and the 10-year job growth is projected at 6%, which is in line with the national average for the profession.

Here are the key local employers you should target:

1. Norman Regional Health System: While based in neighboring Norman, this health system is a major employer for the entire Cleveland County area, including Moore. They operate a large network of clinics and pharmacies. Their main hospital campus is a short 15-20 minute drive from most of Moore. They typically hire for both retail and hospital-based pharmacy tech roles.
2. Mercy Hospital Oklahoma City: Mercy's south Oklahoma City campus is easily accessible from Moore via I-35 and serves a large patient base from the southern metro, including Moore residents. Their pharmacy is a significant employer for technicians seeking hospital experience, which often pays more than retail.
3. Walmart Pharmacy: As the nation's largest retailer, Walmart has a massive pharmacy footprint. Moore has several Supercenter locations, including a high-traffic store on SW 19th St and another on S Oklahoma Ave. These are often the first stop for entry-level technicians due to their extensive training programs and consistent hiring.
4. CVS Pharmacy: With multiple locations throughout Moore, including stores on North Gate Blvd and SW 19th St, CVS is a primary employer. They are known for their structured career paths and opportunities for advancement to roles like Pharmacy Inventory Specialist or Lead Technician.
5. Walgreens: Similar to CVS, Walgreens has a strong presence in Moore. Their stores on S. Sooner Rd and Western Ave are key locations. They often promote from within and offer benefits that are attractive to both part-time and full-time employees.
6. Reasor's Pharmacy: This Oklahoma-based grocery chain is a local favorite. Their store in Moore features a full-service pharmacy that offers a more community-focused work environment compared to national chains. Working here can mean building stronger relationships with regular customers.
7. Independent Pharmacies: Moore has several independent pharmacies that provide a different, often more personalized, work environment. These can be competitive to get into but may offer more varied responsibilities and a tight-knit team dynamic. A good strategy is to visit them in person with a resume.

Hiring Trends: Hospital pharmacy tech roles are growing slightly faster than retail, driven by an aging population and the complexity of inpatient medication management. Technicians with sterile compounding (IV) certification are in high demand for these roles.

Getting Licensed in OK

Oklahoma has clear requirements for Pharmacy Technicians. Unlike some states that don't require formal certification, Oklahoma mandates that you be registered with the Oklahoma State Board of Pharmacy (OSBP).

State-Specific Requirements:

1. Application: You must submit an application directly to the OSBP. This includes a fee (currently $55, but check the board's website for updates).
2. Background Check: A fingerprint-based criminal history check is required (approx. $50).
3. Education/Training: You must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED. While the state doesn't require formal training, most employers will require you to be certified.
4. National Certification (CPhT): While not mandated by the state, it is a de facto requirement for most employers. The two primary certifying bodies are:
   • Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB): Requires passing the PTCB exam (Exam fee: $129).
   • National Healthcareer Association (NHA): Requires passing the ExCPT exam (Exam fee: $115).

Timeline to Get Started:

• Week 1-2: Research the field, understand the requirements, and begin studying for the PTCB or NHA exam using study guides or online courses (cost: $100-$400).
• Month 1-2: Schedule and take your certification exam. Most people study for 4-8 weeks.
• Month 2: Once certified, immediately apply for your state license with the OSBP. The processing time can take 2-4 weeks.
• Month 3: Begin applying for jobs. With your state license and national certification in hand, you are a highly competitive candidate.

Total Estimated Startup Cost: $250 - $600 (depending on study materials). This is a worthwhile investment for a stable career with a clear upward path.

Best Neighborhoods for Pharmacy Technicians

Moore is a sprawling suburb, and your choice of neighborhood can significantly impact your commute and lifestyle. The city is generally divided by I-35.

West Side (The "Original" Moore):

• Commute: Excellent access to I-35 for jobs in Moore, Norman, or south OKC. Most pharmacy locations are on this side.
• Lifestyle: Established, family-friendly neighborhoods with older homes, larger lots, and mature trees. More affordable housing.
• Rent Estimates: 1BR apartments: $700 - $825; 2BR houses: $950 - $1,200.
• Best For: Those who want a classic suburban feel and a quick commute to most local jobs.

East Side (East of I-35):

• Commute: Still very accessible via I-35, but you'll often have to cross the interstate for work. The new Moore Medical Center is on this side, creating new job opportunities.
• Lifestyle: Newer subdivisions, modern amenities, and planned communities. Often more family-oriented with new parks and schools.
• Rent Estimates: 1BR apartments: $775 - $925; 2BR houses: $1,100 - $1,400.
• Best For: Newcomers and families looking for newer construction and modern community amenities.

South Moore:

• Commute: This area is growing rapidly. Commutes to Norman or south OKC are very direct via I-35. Some local pharmacy jobs are within Moore itself.
• Lifestyle: A mix of older, established neighborhoods and new, large-scale developments. It feels a bit more separated from the core of Moore but offers great value.
• Rent Estimates: 1BR apartments: $750 - $875; 2BR houses: $1,000 - $1,300.
• Best For: Those who want a bit more space and don't mind being at the southern edge of the metro.

Downtown Moore:

• Commute: Walkable or a very short drive to some local businesses. Commuting to OKC or Norman requires a short hop onto I-35.
• Lifestyle: A small, walkable "main street" area with local cafes and shops. It has a unique, small-town feel that's rare in the suburbs. Housing is a mix of older homes and new infill projects.
• Rent Estimates: 1BR apartments: $800 - $1,000 (limited inventory); 2BR houses: $1,100 - $1,500.
• Best For: Those who value a walkable, community-focused environment over modern amenities.

The Long Game: Career Growth

A Pharmacy Technician career in Moore isn't a dead-end job; it's a platform for growth. With the right certifications and ambition, you can significantly increase your earning potential.

Specialty Premiums and Advancement Paths:

• Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT): The baseline for advancement. Unlocks higher starting pay and access to hospital roles.
• Sterile Compounding Certification (IV Certification): This is the single biggest salary booster. Hospitals and specialty pharmacies pay a premium for technicians who can prepare IV admixtures and other sterile products. Expect a $2-$4/hour increase.
• Lead Technician/Pharmacy Supervisor: With experience, you can move into a leadership role, overseeing other techs, managing workflow, and handling inventory. This path adds administrative duties but comes with a pay increase.
• Informatics Pharmacy Technician: This emerging role focuses on the technology side of pharmacy—working with automated dispensing cabinets, electronic health records (EHR), and pharmacy software systems. It's a great path for tech-savvy individuals.
• Compounding Pharmacy: Working in a compounding pharmacy (like those that prepare custom medications) requires specialized skills and can be a very rewarding and well-paid niche.

10-Year Outlook:
The 6% job growth in the metro is steady. The demand will be driven by an aging population needing more prescription medications, the expansion of retail clinics, and the increasing complexity of drug therapies. Technicians who specialize in areas like chemotherapy, nutrition support, or informatics will see the highest demand and best salary growth. Moore's position as a stable, growing suburb within the larger OKC metro ensures a continued need for skilled pharmacy professionals.

The Verdict: Is Moore Right for You?

Deciding on a move is a personal calculation. Here’s a balanced look at the pros and cons for a Pharmacy Technician in Moore.

Pros	Cons
Affordable Cost of Living: Your $39,211 salary goes much further here, with rent averaging just $773.	Lower Median Salary: The salary is slightly below the national average; significant income growth requires specialization or job-hopping.
Stable Job Market: A solid base of national chains and regional hospitals provides job security and options.	Car-Dependent City: Moore is not walkable; you will need a reliable vehicle for commuting and daily life.
Central Location: Easy access to the amenities of Oklahoma City and Norman for entertainment and dining.	Limited Public Transit: Reliance on personal vehicles is the norm; options for those without a car are extremely limited.
Manageable Commute: Most jobs are within a 15-20 minute drive, avoiding the long commutes of larger metros.	Smaller Metro Area: Fewer specialized pharmacy roles compared to a major city like OKC or Tulsa.
Family-Friendly: Highly rated schools (Moore Public Schools) and numerous parks make it ideal for those with or planning families.	Severe Weather: Located in "Tornado Alley," residents must be prepared for severe weather season (spring/early summer).

Final Recommendation:

Moore is an excellent choice for Pharmacy Technicians at the entry-level and mid-career stages who prioritize financial stability and a high quality of life. It's ideal for those who are cost-conscious, value a short commute, and are looking for a safe, family-friendly community. The lower cost of living allows you to save for a home or pay down debt more aggressively than you could in a more expensive city.

It may be less ideal for a single, high-earning specialist seeking the absolute highest salary or a vibrant, car-free urban lifestyle. However, for the vast majority of Pharmacy Technicians, Moore offers a compelling and practical foundation for a successful and comfortable career.

FAQs

1. Do I need to be certified to work as a Pharmacy Technician in Moore?
While the State of Oklahoma only requires you to be registered with the OSBP, the reality is that nearly all employers (Walmart, CVS, hospitals) require national certification (CPhT) as a condition of employment. It is highly recommended to get certified before applying.

2. What's the job market like for part-time Pharmacy Technicians?
The job market for part-time work is strong, especially at retail chains like CVS, Walgreens, and Walmart. These locations are open long hours and often on weekends, creating plenty of shift flexibility. Hospitals also hire part-time techs, often for evening or weekend shifts.

3. How does the cost of living really compare to a city like Dallas or Denver?
The difference is dramatic. The Cost of Living Index for Moore is 91.0, while Dallas is around 102 and Denver is 115. This means your salary in Moore would need to be 12-26% higher in those cities just to maintain the same standard of living. An $18.85/hour wage in Moore feels much more comfortable than it would in a more expensive metro.

4. Is Moore safe?
Moore is generally considered a very safe city, especially when compared to national crime rates. Like any suburban community, it's wise to research specific neighborhoods, but overall, it's known for its low crime rates and strong sense of community.

5. What's the best way to find a job in a Moore pharmacy?

1. Get Certified and Licensed: Have your CPhT and OSBP registration in hand.
2. Apply Online: Go directly to the career websites of major employers like Walmart, CVS, and Norman Regional Health System.
3. Network: Visit local pharmacies in person during non-peak hours (e.g., mid-afternoon) to introduce yourself and drop off a resume.
4. Use Local Resources: Check the job boards at Moore Norman Technology Center, as they often have partnerships with local healthcare employers.

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Data Sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, Oklahoma State Board of Pharmacy, U.S. Census Bureau, and local real estate market data.