How to Become a Pharmacists in New York
Pharmacists in New York earn a median salary of $136,350/year, which is 1% below the national average. New York has a state income tax of ~5.2%. After taxes and rent, a pharmacists takes home approximately $6,656/month. Most positions require Doctoral or professional degree.
What a pharmacists can afford in New York
Becoming a pharmacists in New York
Meet education requirements
Pharmacists positions in New York typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across New York. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many pharmacists positions in New York require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain New York licensure or certification
New York may require specific licensing or professional certification for pharmacistss. Requirements vary by state — contact the New York Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in New York
New York employs 21,330 pharmacists. The highest concentrations are in Syracuse and Watertown-Fort Drum.
Pharmacists salary by metro area in New York
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Syracuse | $144K | $69.36/hr | 680 |
| Watertown-Fort Drum | $139K | $66.68/hr | 90 |
| Ithaca | $136K | $65.44/hr | 60 |
| New York-Newark-Jersey City | $136K | $65.25/hr | 22,010 |
| Buffalo-Cheektowaga | $135K | $65.1/hr | 1,580 |
| Elmira | $134K | $64.59/hr | 80 |
| Kiryas Joel-Poughkeepsie-Newburgh | $134K | $64.47/hr | 630 |
| Binghamton | $134K | $64.35/hr | 240 |
| Kingston | $134K | $64.31/hr | 110 |
| Albany-Schenectady-Troy | $133K | $64.12/hr | 1,120 |
| Rochester | $133K | $64.07/hr | 1,050 |
| Glens Falls | $131K | $63/hr | 140 |
| Utica-Rome | $127K | $61.17/hr | 260 |
Pharmacists salary range in New York
Pharmacists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a pharmacists make in New York?▼
The median pharmacists salary in New York is $136,350 per year ($65.55/hr). This is 1% below the national median of $137,480. Salaries range from $94,250 to $168,470.
What are the requirements to become a pharmacists in New York?▼
Pharmacists positions in New York typically require Doctoral or professional degree. New York may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the New York licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a pharmacists afford to live in New York?▼
At the median salary of $136,350, a pharmacists in New York would take home approximately $8,068/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 17.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for pharmacists in New York?▼
The highest paying metro areas for pharmacists in New York are Syracuse ($144,270), Watertown-Fort Drum ($138,690), Ithaca ($136,120). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does New York have state income tax for pharmacists?▼
Yes, New York has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.2%. On a $136,350 salary, this means roughly $7,133/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.