How Much Do Pharmacists Make?
$132,750median annual salary
$63.82/hour · $11,063/month · BLS Code: 29-1051
Pharmacists dispense prescription medications, counsel patients on proper use and side effects, and ensure safe drug interactions. They work in retail pharmacies, hospitals, clinics, and pharmaceutical companies. While salaries are high, the profession faces some headwinds from automation and market saturation.
Pharmacist Salary at a Glance
Entry Level
$112,690
Starting salary
Median
$132,750
50th percentile
Senior Level
$157,120
Experienced professionals
Top 10%
$165,690
90th percentile
Salary Range
Salary by Experience Level
Top Paying States for Pharmacists
#1
California
$158,720
#2
Alaska
$155,900
#3
Oregon
$149,210
#4
Washington
$148,690
#5
Vermont
$146,280
Top Paying Cities for Pharmacists
Education & Requirements
Education
Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) — typically 4 years after 2+ years of undergraduate prerequisites
Typical Degree
PharmD
Certifications
Job Outlook
-2%
Projected Growth (2022-2032)
322,200
Total Employed
BLS Outlook Category
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Pharmacist Salary FAQ
How much do pharmacists make per hour?
The median hourly wage for pharmacists is about $63.82. Entry-level pharmacists earn around $54.18/hour while experienced pharmacists can earn $75+/hour.
Is pharmacy a good career in 2026?
Pharmacy offers high salaries and job stability, but the job market has tightened. The BLS projects slight decline (-2%) through 2032. Retail pharmacy positions are more competitive, while clinical and specialty roles are growing.
How long does it take to become a pharmacist?
Typically 6-8 years after high school: 2-4 years of undergraduate prerequisites followed by 4 years of pharmacy school (PharmD). Some programs offer direct-entry 6-year tracks.
Do pharmacists make more than nurses?
Yes, significantly. Pharmacists earn a median of $132,750 vs. $86,070 for registered nurses. However, pharmacists also require more education (PharmD vs. BSN) and typically carry more student loan debt.
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Read moreSalary data is based on BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics, industry surveys, and widely-reported compensation benchmarks. Figures are approximate and vary by location, employer, experience, and market conditions. This is educational content — not career or financial advice.