How to Become a Pharmacists in Louisiana
Pharmacists in Louisiana earn a median salary of $129,650/year, which is 6% below the national average. Louisiana has a state income tax of ~3.8%. After taxes and rent, a pharmacists takes home approximately $6,458/month. Most positions require Doctoral or professional degree.
What a pharmacists can afford in Louisiana
Becoming a pharmacists in Louisiana
Meet education requirements
Pharmacists positions in Louisiana typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Louisiana. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many pharmacists positions in Louisiana require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Louisiana licensure or certification
Louisiana may require specific licensing or professional certification for pharmacistss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Louisiana Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Louisiana
Louisiana employs 5,010 pharmacists. The highest concentrations are in Alexandria and Baton Rouge.
Pharmacists salary by metro area in Louisiana
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alexandria | $134K | $64.49/hr | 210 |
| Baton Rouge | $133K | $63.87/hr | 930 |
| Shreveport-Bossier City | $131K | $63.11/hr | 500 |
| Lake Charles | $130K | $62.34/hr | 190 |
| Hammond | $130K | $62.31/hr | 120 |
| Lafayette | $129K | $62.17/hr | 450 |
| Houma-Bayou Cane-Thibodaux | $129K | $61.94/hr | 200 |
| New Orleans-Metairie | $128K | $61.66/hr | 1,230 |
| Slidell-Mandeville-Covington | $128K | $61.32/hr | 300 |
| Monroe | $126K | $60.45/hr | 260 |
Pharmacists salary range in Louisiana
Pharmacists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a pharmacists make in Louisiana?▼
The median pharmacists salary in Louisiana is $129,650 per year ($62.33/hr). This is 6% below the national median of $137,480. Salaries range from $94,430 to $155,890.
What are the requirements to become a pharmacists in Louisiana?▼
Pharmacists positions in Louisiana typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Louisiana may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Louisiana licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a pharmacists afford to live in Louisiana?▼
At the median salary of $129,650, a pharmacists in Louisiana would take home approximately $7,870/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 17.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for pharmacists in Louisiana?▼
The highest paying metro areas for pharmacists in Louisiana are Alexandria ($134,140), Baton Rouge ($132,850), Shreveport-Bossier City ($131,280). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Louisiana have state income tax for pharmacists?▼
Yes, Louisiana has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.8%. On a $129,650 salary, this means roughly $4,929/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.