Independence vs Springfield: Pharmacist Salary (2026)
Compare pharmacist salaries between Independence, MO and Springfield, MO. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Independence, MO | Springfield, MO |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $142,124▲ | $137,460 |
| Hourly Rate | $68.33▲ | $66.09 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $102,524▲ | $81,159 |
| 25th Percentile | $131,445▲ | $130,933 |
| 75th Percentile | $160,980▲ | $160,616 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $186,146▲ | $164,710 |
| Total Employed | 30 | 560▲ |
Verdict
Independence, MO offers better overall compensation for pharmacists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Springfield.
The salary gap between Independence and Springfield is $4,664 (3.39%). Independence's median is -0.95% compared to the US national median of $143,489.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Independence spans $83,622,Springfield spans $83,551. Independence 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, Independence ($158,621 effective) pays 2.22% more than Springfield ($155,173 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Independence if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($142,124/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($186,146)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $158,621)
- ✓You prefer the Missouri area and lifestyle
Choose Springfield if…
- ✓Larger job market (560 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Missouri area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, pharmacist salaries in Independence grew 19.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -0.2% growth in Springfield over the same period.
Independence, MO
$117,044 (2024) → $139,570 (2025)
Springfield, MO
$135,320 (2019) → $134,990 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Independence, MO
Springfield, MO
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays pharmacists more: Independence or Springfield?
What is the hourly rate difference between Independence and Springfield?
Should I relocate from Independence to Springfield as a pharmacist?
What do entry-level pharmacists earn in Independence vs Springfield?
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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