Pharmacists typically dispense drugs and medications that are prescribed by physicians. They may work in any of several private and public healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and retail outlets. Part of the pharmacist’s job also involves keeping pharmacy records and assisting and informing patients about their medications.

Many pharmacists earn six-figure incomes right out of college. This salary is somewhat unusual as compared to many other jobs, and this is a large part of the appeal of the profession. Just know, that if you want to be a Pharmacist you have to take the PCAT.

Pharmacists’ Annual Salaries

Pharmacists’ salaries tend to vary considerably based on several factors. Among these are educational attainment, certifications earned, additional skills, and the number of years spent in practice.

The official score report you receive will include seven separate scores, with one point for the writing section, one for each multiple choice section, and a composite score.

As of April 2019, the average salary for pharmacists in the United States is around $132,764. The typical range is from $125,098 to $141,402.

Highest Paying Cities

Pharmacists can expect to earn the highest salaries in the following metropolitan areas: Victoria, Texas; Tyler, Texas; Santa Cruz, California; Gadsden, Alabama; and McAllen, Texas.

In Victoria, pharmacists’ salaries average $164,150. In Tyler, pharmacists earn approximately $160,320. Salaries average $154,820 in Santa Cruz, $152,880 in Gadsden, and $152,120 in Alabama.

Highest Paying States and Districts

Among the states and districts that have the highest salaries for pharmacists are Alaska, California, Vermont, Wisconsin, and New Hampshire.

In Alaska, pharmacists’ salaries average $138,020. In California, pharmacists earn an average of $136,730 a year. Vermont pharmacists earn an average of $134,090, while Wisconsin and New Hampshire pharmacists earn an average of $130,670 and $127,900, respectively.

Salaries: Pharmacists vs. Other Jobs

Compared to the average annual salary of $121,710 earned by pharmacists in 2017, physicians earned an average of $198,370. Dentists earned an average of $174,110, while registered nurses earned $73,550. Pharmacy technicians earned an average of $33,060 during the same year.

Job Projections for Pharmacists

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that jobs for pharmacists will increase by 6% from 2016 to 2026. This rate is lower than that for other jobs and represents about 17,400 new positions.

The demand for pharmacists tends to vary considerably depending on factors such as skills, experience, pharmacy setting, and geographic location. In the third quarter of 2018, the demand for pharmacists in the United States was more pronounced in the west and much less so in the south. The Pharmacy Demand Indicator also estimates that there will be significantly more demand for pharmacists in hospitals, doctor’s offices, and non-retail settings, as compared to mail and retail pharmacies.

One thing that sets pharmacists apart from other practitioners is that they typically start with six-figure incomes, with little opportunity for further growth. For most pharmacists, salary is the most crucial factor for entering the industry.

If you want to be a Pharmacist, you have to take the PCAT. If you’re ready to start studying, click below to find the best test prep products!