How to Become a Pharmacists in North Carolina
Pharmacists in North Carolina earn a median salary of $136,000/year, which is 1% below the national average. North Carolina has a state income tax of ~4.5%. After taxes and rent, a pharmacists takes home approximately $6,720/month. Most positions require Doctoral or professional degree.
What a pharmacists can afford in North Carolina
Becoming a pharmacists in North Carolina
Meet education requirements
Pharmacists positions in North Carolina typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across North Carolina. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many pharmacists positions in North Carolina require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain North Carolina licensure or certification
North Carolina may require specific licensing or professional certification for pharmacistss. Requirements vary by state — contact the North Carolina Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in North Carolina
North Carolina employs 11,440 pharmacists. The highest concentrations are in Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia and Raleigh-Cary.
Pharmacists salary by metro area in North Carolina
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia | $140K | $67.28/hr | 2,670 |
| Raleigh-Cary | $139K | $66.91/hr | 1,470 |
| Greenville | $138K | $66.55/hr | 280 |
| Winston-Salem | $137K | $66.1/hr | 1,020 |
| Pinehurst-Southern Pines | $137K | $65.75/hr | 110 |
| Durham-Chapel Hill | $136K | $65.37/hr | 1,120 |
| Asheville | $136K | $65.22/hr | 490 |
| Fayetteville | $135K | $65.05/hr | 400 |
| Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton | $135K | $65.01/hr | 320 |
| Burlington | $133K | $64.14/hr | 150 |
| Greensboro-High Point | $133K | $64.05/hr | 830 |
| Wilmington | $133K | $63.99/hr | 440 |
| Jacksonville | $131K | $62.9/hr | 90 |
| Rocky Mount | $130K | $62.67/hr | 140 |
| Goldsboro | $129K | $62.02/hr | 120 |
Pharmacists salary range in North Carolina
Pharmacists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a pharmacists make in North Carolina?▼
The median pharmacists salary in North Carolina is $136,000 per year ($65.38/hr). This is 1% below the national median of $137,480. Salaries range from $93,330 to $165,980.
What are the requirements to become a pharmacists in North Carolina?▼
Pharmacists positions in North Carolina typically require Doctoral or professional degree. North Carolina may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the North Carolina licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a pharmacists afford to live in North Carolina?▼
At the median salary of $136,000, a pharmacists in North Carolina would take home approximately $8,132/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 17.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for pharmacists in North Carolina?▼
The highest paying metro areas for pharmacists in North Carolina are Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia ($139,950), Raleigh-Cary ($139,170), Greenville ($138,420). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does North Carolina have state income tax for pharmacists?▼
Yes, North Carolina has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.5%. On a $136,000 salary, this means roughly $6,120/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.