Pharmacist Salary
Average $137,480/year (Healthcare) · $66.10/hour at 40 hrs/week
On a $137,480 pharmacist salary, expect about $27,200 in total federal deductions (income tax, Social Security, and Medicare), leaving roughly $110,300 before state taxes. Pharmacist wages range from about $87,000 at entry level to over $163,000 in top-paying states like California and Alaska.
A Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree takes 6-8 years of post-secondary education, plus the NAPLEX and MPJE licensing exams. The investment is substantial, but starting salaries well into six figures offset the cost. Keep reading for a state-by-state pay comparison, federal tax breakdown, and the qualifications hiring managers look for.
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Pharmacist Salary Range
Hospital pharmacists and those in clinical settings often outearn retail pharmacists, though retail chains may offer signing bonuses and more predictable schedules. Specialty areas like oncology pharmacy, nuclear pharmacy, or pharmacogenomics push salaries above the mean.
West Coast states and Alaska consistently pay the highest pharmacist salaries, due to both cost of living and pharmacist shortages in certain regions. Rural and underserved communities may offer premium wages and relocation assistance to attract qualified pharmacists.
Board certification through the Board of Pharmacy Specialties (BPS) in ambulatory care, critical care, or infectious diseases differentiates pharmacists in the job market and leads to higher compensation. Residency-trained pharmacists also tend to start at higher salaries in clinical roles.
| Level | Annual Salary | Hourly | Net (federal) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level | $86,930 | $41.79/hr | $69,985.25 |
| Median | $137,480 | $66.10/hr | $105,233.58 |
| Senior | $172,040 | $82.71/hr | $128,855.34 |
Even new Pharm.D. graduates command strong starting pay. The $87,000 entry point reflects positions in lower-cost markets or community pharmacy chains, while most pharmacists earn six figures within a few years of practice.
Pharmacy directors and those in specialized hospital roles approach or exceed $172,000. Pharmacists who move into pharmaceutical industry positions (medical affairs, drug safety, regulatory) can earn even more at large companies.
The education investment is significant (6-8 years post-high school), but starting salaries that clear six figures and stable long-term demand make the math work. Among healthcare professions not requiring medical or dental school, pharmacist pay ranks near the top.
Top-Paying States for Pharmacists
| State | Avg Salary | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| California | $163,890 | $78.79/hr |
| Alaska | $157,050 | $75.50/hr |
| Oregon | $152,050 | $73.10/hr |
Education & Requirements
Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree from an accredited pharmacy program. Typically requires 6-8 years of post-secondary education.
- Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree
- State pharmacist license
- Pass NAPLEX and MPJE exams
- Completion of pharmacy residency (recommended)
Job Outlook
Pharmacists dispense prescription medications, advise patients on proper use, and monitor drug interactions. They work in retail pharmacies, hospitals, clinics, and pharmaceutical companies.
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Pharmacist Salary FAQ
Common questions about earning a pharmacist salary
What is the average pharmacist salary?
The average pharmacist salary is $137,480 per year, or about $66.10 per hour. Pharmacists in hospitals and specialty settings often earn more than those in retail, with top earners exceeding $172,000.
How much do entry-level pharmacists make?
Entry-level pharmacists typically earn around $87,000 per year ($41.79/hour). Salaries increase with experience, specialization, and board certifications. Hospital pharmacists may start higher than retail.
Which states pay pharmacists the most?
California leads with $163,890, followed by Alaska ($157,050) and Oregon ($152,050). West Coast and rural states often offer higher pharmacist salaries to attract talent.
Is pharmacy a good career financially?
At $137,480 median, pharmacy pays well above most professions. Growth is 5% (above average) with about 14,200 annual openings spread across retail, hospital, and clinical settings.