Pharmacist Salary: A Comprehensive Guide to Salaries in the USA (2025)

Did you know that pharmacists in the USA can earn six-figure salaries? As one of the most respected healthcare professionals, pharmacists play a vital role in patient care, and their earnings reflect their expertise. If you’re considering a career in pharmacy or wondering how much you can earn as a pharmacist, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about pharmacist salaries, including the factors that influence earnings, average salary trends, and how to maximize your income.

By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of what to expect from your pharmacist salary in 2025, no matter where you work or where you live. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance your career, this guide has something for you.

National Average Pharmacist Salary

In 2025, the average pharmacist salary in the USA is approximately $128,000 per year. However, this figure can vary based on several factors, such as location, experience, and industry. While entry-level pharmacists may earn closer to $100,000, experienced professionals can earn upwards of $150,000 annually. The national average offers a good benchmark, but it’s essential to consider the following variables when estimating your potential earnings.

Pharmacist Salary Per Hour

The hourly wage for pharmacists in the USA ranges from $45 to $72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and specialty. While many pharmacists work on an annual salary, knowing the hourly wage can be particularly helpful when considering part-time or flexible employment options.

Average Pharmacist Salary in 2025

Forecasts for 2025 suggest that pharmacist salaries will experience steady growth due to increased demand in healthcare. While inflation may slightly impact salary growth, new areas such as telepharmacy are creating new job opportunities and potentially higher wages. Pharmacists specializing in high-demand areas like oncology, clinical pharmacy, and telemedicine will see the greatest pay increases.

Geographic Location

Pharmacist salaries vary significantly by region. States like California, New York, and Texas tend to offer higher wages due to the increased demand for healthcare professionals and higher living costs. For example, pharmacists in California can earn between $135,000 and $150,000 per year, while those in more affordable states such as West Virginia may earn around $110,000 annually.

Experience and Expertise

As with many professions, experience is crucial when it comes to salary growth. Entry-level pharmacists can expect to earn between $100,000 and $115,000, while seasoned professionals with 5-10 years of experience might make up to $140,000 per year. Specialized skills, such as oncology pharmacy or pharmacotherapy certifications, can also increase earning potential.

Type of Practice

The type of pharmacy practice significantly impacts salary. Hospital pharmacists typically earn higher wages than retail pharmacists due to their complex roles in managing critical care and medications. Here’s a breakdown:

• Retail Pharmacist: $125,000–$130,000 per year
• Hospital Pharmacist: $130,000–$140,000 per year
• Clinical Pharmacist: $130,000–$145,000 per year

Education and Certifications

Pharmacists with advanced degrees or certifications tend to earn more. A Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) is essential, but additional certifications, like a Board-Certified Pharmacotherapy Specialist (BCPS), can significantly boost salaries, especially in specialized fields like oncology and pediatric pharmacy.

CVS Pharmacist Salary

Pharmacists at CVS generally earn around $120,000 to $130,000 per year, with salary variations based on experience, location, and role. For instance, a CVS Pharmacist in California may make up to $145,000 annually.

Walgreens Pharmacist Salary

Pharmacists at Walgreens earn competitive salaries, ranging from $125,000 to $135,000 per year. Salaries may vary depending on the position, with managerial roles offering higher pay.

Walmart Pharmacist Salary

Walmart offers salaries in the range of $120,000 to $130,000 for its pharmacists. Benefits, such as healthcare and employee discounts, enhance the total compensation package.

Other Major Employers (Costco, Publix, etc.)

• Costco: Pharmacists at Costco can earn $130,000–$140,000 per year, with strong benefits.
• Publix: Pharmacists at Publix generally earn around $125,000–$135,000, with opportunities for advancement.

Clinical Pharmacist Salary

Clinical pharmacists typically earn $130,000 to $145,000 per year, depending on their practice area. Clinical pharmacists who specialize in oncology or pediatrics can expect even higher salaries, often exceeding $150,000 annually.

Hospital Pharmacist Salary

Hospital pharmacists earn between $130,000 and $140,000 annually, depending on their expertise. This salary range reflects the complexity of the work in hospital settings and the constant demand for hospital pharmacists.

Nuclear Pharmacist Salary

Nuclear pharmacists, who specialize in preparing radioactive drugs, earn between $135,000 and $160,000 per year, depending on their experience and work setting.

Oncology and Pediatric Pharmacist Salary

Specializing in oncology or pediatric pharmacy can lead to higher salaries, often in the range of $140,000 to $160,000 per year, as these roles require specialized knowledge and training.

Pursuing Advanced Certifications and Education

Obtaining certifications such as Board Certification in Pharmacotherapy (BCPS) or advancing your education with a PharmD or MBA can lead to higher-paying roles, such as clinical pharmacist or pharmacy manager.

Gaining Experience and Specializing

As you gain more experience, consider specializing in high-demand areas like oncology or geriatric care. Specialization can increase your earning potential significantly.

Moving into Management or Leadership Roles

Pharmacists who transition into leadership roles, such as pharmacy manager or clinical coordinator, can expect to earn significantly higher salaries—often exceeding $150,000 per year.

Pharmacist Salary in California

California consistently offers some of the highest pharmacist salaries, ranging from $135,000 to $150,000 annually, largely due to its high cost of living and demand for healthcare professionals.

Pharmacist Salary in New York City

In New York City, pharmacists can expect to earn $130,000 to $145,000 per year, reflecting the high living expenses and the concentration of healthcare facilities.

Pharmacist Salary in Texas, Florida, and Other Key States

Salaries in Texas and Florida range from $120,000 to $135,000, with variations based on the region and the pharmacy setting.

As a pharmacist in the USA, you can expect competitive compensation in 2025, with salaries influenced by factors like location, experience, and specialization. The profession offers excellent earning potential, especially for those in specialized fields or leadership positions.

Future Salary Trends for Pharmacists

In the coming years, the salary for pharmacists is expected to grow due to the increasing demand for healthcare professionals and advancements in specialized fields like telepharmacy. If you’re considering a career in pharmacy, now is a great time to enter the field and explore all the opportunities it has to offer.

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