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How to Become a Pharmacists in Massachusetts

Pharmacists in Massachusetts earn a median salary of $138,170/year, which is 2% below the national average. Massachusetts has a state income tax of ~5.0%. After taxes and rent, a pharmacists takes home approximately $6,260/month. Most positions require Doctoral or professional degree.

$138K
Median salary in Massachusetts
-2%
vs. national average
5.0%
State income tax
7,230
Employed in Massachusetts

What a pharmacists can afford in Massachusetts

Gross annual salary$138,170
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 5.0% state tax)$8,190/mo
Median 2BR rent (Massachusetts)-$1,930/mo
Rent as % of take-home23.6% (within guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$138,170/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$6,260/mo

Becoming a pharmacists in Massachusetts

1

Meet education requirements

Pharmacists positions in Massachusetts typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Massachusetts. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many pharmacists positions in Massachusetts require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Massachusetts licensure or certification

Massachusetts may require specific licensing or professional certification for pharmacistss. Requirements vary by state, contact the Massachusetts Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Massachusetts

Massachusetts employs 7,230 pharmacists. The highest concentrations are in Barnstable Town and Amherst Town-Northampton.

Pharmacists salary by metro area in Massachusetts

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Barnstable Town$151K$72.52/hr200
Amherst Town-Northampton$141K$67.62/hr90
Boston-Cambridge-Newton$140K$67.14/hr5,280
Springfield$138K$66.46/hr430
Pittsfield$138K$66.3/hr100
Worcester$133K$63.91/hr760

Pharmacists salary range in Massachusetts

10th percentile (entry)
$114K
25th percentile
$133K
Median (50th)
$138K
75th percentile
$155K
90th percentile (senior)
$165K
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Full pharmacists salary breakdown in Massachusetts
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a pharmacists make in Massachusetts?

The median pharmacists salary in Massachusetts is $138,170 per year ($66.43/hr). This is 2% below the national median of $140,910. Salaries range from $113,710 to $164,500.

What are the requirements to become a pharmacists in Massachusetts?

Pharmacists positions in Massachusetts typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Massachusetts may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Massachusetts licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a pharmacists afford to live in Massachusetts?

At the median salary of $138,170, a pharmacists in Massachusetts would take home approximately $8,190/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,930/month, that's 23.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for pharmacists in Massachusetts?

The highest paying metro areas for pharmacists in Massachusetts are Barnstable Town ($150,850), Amherst Town-Northampton ($140,650), Boston-Cambridge-Newton ($139,660). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Massachusetts have state income tax for pharmacists?

Yes, Massachusetts has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.0%. On a $138,170 salary, this means roughly $6,909/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.