How to Become a Pharmacists in California
Pharmacists in California earn a median salary of $165,150/year, which is 20% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~7.0%. After taxes and rent, a pharmacists takes home approximately $7,933/month. Most positions require Doctoral or professional degree.
What a pharmacists can afford in California
Becoming a pharmacists in California
Meet education requirements
Pharmacists positions in California typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many pharmacists positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for pharmacistss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 34,490 pharmacists. The highest concentrations are in Napa and San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara.
Pharmacists salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Napa | $204K | $98.05/hr | 160 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $196K | $94.35/hr | 1,950 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $184K | $88.23/hr | 4,230 |
| Vallejo | $178K | $85.35/hr | 320 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $175K | $84.04/hr | 320 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $174K | $83.42/hr | 2,320 |
| Chico | $171K | $82.31/hr | 160 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $170K | $81.96/hr | 230 |
| Salinas | $169K | $81.27/hr | 260 |
| Modesto | $167K | $80.17/hr | 360 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $166K | $79.72/hr | 260 |
| Visalia | $165K | $79.25/hr | 270 |
| Fresno | $165K | $79.09/hr | 930 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $164K | $78.78/hr | 2,820 |
| Redding | $164K | $78.74/hr | 140 |
Pharmacists salary range in California
Pharmacists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a pharmacists make in California?▼
The median pharmacists salary in California is $165,150 per year ($79.4/hr). This is 20% above the national median of $137,480. Salaries range from $87,170 to $208,070.
What are the requirements to become a pharmacists in California?▼
Pharmacists positions in California typically require Doctoral or professional degree. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a pharmacists afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $165,150, a pharmacists in California would take home approximately $9,345/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 15.1% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for pharmacists in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for pharmacists in California are Napa ($203,950), San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($196,250), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($183,510). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for pharmacists?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 7.0%. On a $165,150 salary, this means roughly $11,497/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.