💊 How much does a pharmacist make?

About $68 an hour

• Base pay: A pharmacist's regular pay comes from their employer as salary or wages. Source
• Hourly pay: In a 2024 U.S. study, about half of pharmacist respondents said they were paid by the hour. Source
• Extra pay for odd shifts: Some hospital employers may add pay for overnight, weekend, or on-call work; terms depend on the job. Source

In the United States, complete the courses required for admission and an accredited Pharm.D. program. Most programs take four years, though some are shorter or admit students from high school. Then pass the NAPLEX and any pharmacy-law exam your state requires, and get that state's license.

1. Finish high school.
2. Complete required pre-pharmacy courses and enter a Pharm.D. program.
3. Earn the Pharm.D. and pass the NAPLEX.
4. Pass any required state law exam and apply for a license.

Qualifications and exams

Every U.S. state requires a pharmacist license. Applicants take the NAPLEX and, depending on the state, a pharmacy-law exam such as the MPJE/UMPJE or a state exam.

In a U.S. pharmacy, a pharmacist checks prescriptions, prepares medicines, and explains how to use them. They also guide staff, answer questions, and keep patient and pharmacy records.

Do hospital pharmacists earn more than retail pharmacists?

Yes. In May 2025, typical yearly pay was $157,290 for pharmacists in hospitals and $132,940 for pharmacists in pharmacies and drug retailers. Source

Does pay rise as pharmacists gain experience?

Experience and education can affect where pay falls. Location and industry matter too, so pharmacists with similar experience may earn different amounts. Source

Does a pharmacist's pay change by state?

Yes. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says location affects wages, and industry can matter too, so pay can differ across the United States. Source

Can night or weekend shifts bring extra pay?

Some hospital employers may offer extra pay for overnight, weekend, or on-call coverage. It depends on the employer and job. Source

Do pharmacists work nights or holidays?

Most U.S. pharmacists work full time. Some work nights, weekends, or holidays, especially in hospitals and other places open around the clock. Source

Can pharmacists work in hospitals too?

Yes. Pharmacists work in retail pharmacies, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities in the United States. Source

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