Pharmacist Jobs in Modesto, CA

Modesto, California$130,050 USD/yearFull-time
Updated: April 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

About Pharmacist Jobs in Modesto

Looking for a Pharmacist job in Modesto? You're in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about working as a Pharmacist in Modesto, CA.

We'll show you what you can expect to earn. We'll also share which companies are hiring. Plus, you'll learn about the cost of living and how to get started in your job search.

Modesto has a strong job market for Pharmacists. Many employers are actively looking for talent. Read on to learn how to land your next role.

Pharmacist Salary in Modesto

Entry Level
$95,370
Median
$130,050
Senior Level
$170,085

Pharmacist salaries in Modesto are in line with national averages, offering competitive compensation for the region.

Purchasing power in Modesto is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

Required Skills

Medication ManagementPatient CounselingDrug InteractionsRegulatory ComplianceClinical Knowledge

Pharmacist Job Market in Modesto

Modesto, CA is a specialized market with unique career opportunities for Pharmacist professionals. Though smaller than coastal metros, Modesto offers focused opportunities and often better work-life balance. The city's strong Agriculture and Healthcare sectors create robust demand for Pharmacist talent. The market for Pharmacist positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring Pharmacists in Modesto

Local hospital systemsRegional healthcare networksPrivate medical groups

Major employers hiring Pharmacists in Modesto include Local hospital systems, Regional healthcare networks, Private medical groups. With major hospital systems and research institutions, Modesto offers excellent opportunities for healthcare professionals at all career stages. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for Pharmacists in Modesto

Living in Modesto as a Pharmacist means navigating a cost of living that's slightly above the national average. Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. At median Pharmacist salary, housing is quite affordable at 17% of gross income, leaving room for savings and lifestyle spending. Suburban apartments average $1,400/month, offering significant savings with slightly longer commutes.

102
Cost Index (100=avg)
$1.8K
Avg Rent/Month
Growing
Tech Hub
Tier 4
Market Size

Commuting as a Pharmacist in Modesto

Modesto Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute time is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services. Consider living close to your workplace. Since transit options are limited, consider living close to your workplace or negotiating flexible hours to avoid peak traffic.

Best neighborhoods for Pharmacists in Modesto: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among Pharmacist professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.

Tax Considerations in California

California has relatively high state income taxes. A Pharmacist earning $130,050 might pay approximately $10,404 in state income tax. However, California's strong job market and quality of life often offset the higher tax burden.

Career Outlook for Pharmacists

The job outlook for Pharmacists in Modesto is stable. While not experiencing rapid growth, the field maintains steady demand with consistent opportunities for qualified professionals. While the market is smaller, Modesto offers opportunities for those seeking specialized roles or better work-life balance. In-demand skills include Medication Management, Patient Counseling, Drug Interactions, Regulatory Compliance.

Relocating to Modesto

California has higher state income taxes. Factor this into salary negotiations, as gross salary comparisons can be misleading.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Pharmacist salary in Modesto, CA?

The average Pharmacist salary in Modesto, CA is $130,050 per year. Entry-level Pharmacists typically start around $95,370, while experienced professionals can earn $170,085 or more. The national average for Pharmacist roles is $127,500.

How many Pharmacist jobs are available in Modesto?

Modesto has a growing job market with steady opportunities for Pharmacist professionals. Major employers hiring Pharmacists include Local hospital systems, Regional healthcare networks, Private medical groups. The Agriculture and Healthcare sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Modesto a good city for Pharmacists?

Modesto is an solid choice for Pharmacists. While not as large as coastal metros, it offers solid opportunities and often better work-life balance. The cost of living is reasonable compared to major coastal cities. The city's agriculture industry creates strong demand for healthcare professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for Pharmacists in Modesto?

Top skills for Pharmacists in Modesto include Medication Management, Patient Counseling, Drug Interactions, Regulatory Compliance, Clinical Knowledge. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork.

What is the cost of living for Pharmacists in Modesto?

Modesto's cost of living is near the national average (102% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. Purchasing power in Modesto is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for Pharmacists in Modesto?

Modesto Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services.

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