Pharmacist Salary
Estimated Pay by Experience Level
Salary by State
Median annual| State | Median / yr | Relative pay |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska | $167,310 | |
| Oregon | $165,960 | |
| California | $164,610 | |
| Hawaii | $163,220 | |
| Washington | $160,610 | |
| Minnesota | $159,740 | |
| Colorado | $156,030 | |
| District of Columbia | $153,400 | |
| National Median | $140,910 |
View all 51 states arrow_forward
The highest sticker pay isn't always where pharmacists keep the most. See Pharmacist pay adjusted for cost of living by state in the Real Pay Index.
How to Become a Pharmacist
Pharmacists dispense prescription medications and advise patients on the safe use of their prescriptions.
Meet the education requirement
Most pharmacists enter the field with doctoral or professional degree. Programs are offered by community colleges, trade schools, and universities.
Complete an accredited training program
Hands-on coursework and clinical or field experience prepare you for the work and for certification exams.
Earn the State pharmacist license (NAPLEX)
Most employers expect this credential — and in many states it's required to practice. Entry pay starts near $99,290 and rises toward $174,230 with experience.
Pharmacist salary: common questions
How much does a Pharmacist make an hour?
The median hourly wage for pharmacists is $67.75, which works out to about $140,910 per year for full-time work.
Which state pays pharmacists the most?
Alaska has the highest median pay for pharmacists at $167,310 per year — 19% above the national median of $140,910.
What is the salary range for pharmacists?
Most pharmacists earn between $99,290 and $174,230 per year. The middle 50% earn $129,380 to $161,840, with a median of $140,910.
Is becoming a Pharmacist a good career?
Employment is projected to grow 3% (as fast as average), and the role typically requires doctoral or professional degree. With a median wage of $140,910 per year, it pays well above the U.S. median for all occupations.