Tampa vs Lakeland: Pharmacist Salary (2026)
Compare pharmacist salaries between Tampa, FL and Lakeland, FL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Tampa, FL | Lakeland, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $140,515 | $144,986▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $67.55 | $69.70▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $53,695 | $102,207▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $130,790 | $134,242▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $160,342▲ | $154,527 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $171,981▲ | $170,840 |
| Total Employed | 3,460▲ | 490 |
Verdict
Tampa and Lakeland are closely matched on overall pharmacist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Tampa and Lakeland is $4,471 (3.18%). Lakeland's median is +1.04% compared to the US national median of $143,489.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Tampa spans $118,286,Lakeland spans $68,633. Tampa has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Lakeland ($149,253 effective) pays 7.16% more than Tampa ($139,275 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Tampa if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($171,981)
- ✓Larger job market (3,460 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Choose Lakeland if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($144,986/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $149,253)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, pharmacist salaries in Tampa grew 7.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 15.7% growth in Lakeland over the same period.
Tampa, FL
$127,980 (2019) → $137,990 (2025)
Lakeland, FL
$123,090 (2019) → $142,380 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Lakeland, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays pharmacists more: Tampa or Lakeland?
What is the hourly rate difference between Tampa and Lakeland?
Should I relocate from Tampa to Lakeland as a pharmacist?
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Written by Sofia Chen, PharmD
Career Analyst
Sofia Chen has 10 years of experience in community pharmacy. She specializes in medication therapy management.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 1.83% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Sofia Chen, PharmD, a licensed pharmacist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov