Pharmacist Salary in the United States
Based on 322K+ data points from BLS and H-1B filings
Median Annual Salary
$142,891
$68.698/hr
▲ 2.9% vs 2024Salary Range
$134K – $196K
10th – 90th percentile
Total Employed
322K
workers nationwide
Pharmacist salary in the United States reflects a well-compensated healthcare profession. The median annual salary for pharmacists is $138,804, with approximately 329,050 pharmacists currently employed across the country. This represents a stable and rewarding career path for those pursuing pharmaceutical sciences and patient care roles.
Several factors influence pharmacist salary in the United States, including work setting, geographic location, years of experience, and specialized certifications. Pharmacists working in hospital settings or specialized clinical roles may earn differently than those in retail environments. Additionally, regional demand, cost of living, and individual employer policies all contribute to the wide salary range of $87,170 to $208,070 that pharmacists can expect to earn.
Salary Distribution — Pharmacist
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $133,830 |
| 25th percentile | $158,000 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $142,891 |
| 75th percentile | $173,600 |
| 90th percentile | $196,020 |
Pharmacist Salary by State
Top 10 Highest-Paying States for Pharmacist
| # | State | Median Salary | vs National | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Alaska | $167,310 | +17.1% | 560 |
| 2 | Oregon | $165,960 | +16.1% | 3K |
| 3 | California | $164,610 | +15.2% | 34K |
| 4 | Hawaii | $163,220 | +14.2% | 1K |
| 5 | Washington | $160,610 | +12.4% | 7K |
| 6 | Minnesota | $159,740 | +11.8% | 6K |
| 7 | Colorado | $156,030 | +9.2% | 5K |
| 8 | District of Columbia | $153,400 | +7.4% | 850 |
| 9 | Delaware | $152,880 | +7.0% | 790 |
| 10 | Wisconsin | $148,740 | +4.1% | 6K |
Historical Salary Trend — Pharmacist
| Year | Median Salary (United States) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $132,955 |
| 2023 | $136,337 |
| 2024 | $138,804 |
| 2025 | $142,891 |
Pharmacist Salary by Experience Level
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do pharmacists make per hour in the United States?
- The median hourly wage for pharmacists in the United States is $67/hour, which translates to an annual salary of $138,804. However, hourly rates vary based on experience, location, and employer type.
What is the salary range for pharmacists in the US?
- Pharmacist salaries in the United States range from $87,170 on the lower end to $208,070 on the higher end. This wide range reflects differences in experience level, geographic location, and specialization.
Which state pays pharmacists the most?
- California offers the highest pharmacist salaries, with a top paying rate of $165,150 per year. This reflects the state's high cost of living and strong demand for pharmacy professionals.
How many pharmacists are employed in the United States?
- There are currently 329,050 pharmacists employed across the United States. This represents a substantial and stable workforce in the healthcare industry.