How to Become a Pharmacists in Pennsylvania
Pharmacists in Pennsylvania earn a median salary of $135,830/year, which is 1% below the national average. Pennsylvania has a state income tax of ~3.1%. After taxes and rent, a pharmacists takes home approximately $6,873/month. Most positions require Doctoral or professional degree.
What a pharmacists can afford in Pennsylvania
Becoming a pharmacists in Pennsylvania
Meet education requirements
Pharmacists positions in Pennsylvania typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Pennsylvania. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many pharmacists positions in Pennsylvania require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Pennsylvania licensure or certification
Pennsylvania may require specific licensing or professional certification for pharmacistss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Pennsylvania Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania employs 15,120 pharmacists. The highest concentrations are in Williamsport and Chambersburg.
Pharmacists salary by metro area in Pennsylvania
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Williamsport | $151K | $72.66/hr | 80 |
| Chambersburg | $142K | $68.42/hr | 100 |
| Lebanon | $141K | $67.56/hr | 90 |
| Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington | $138K | $66.33/hr | 7,070 |
| Reading | $138K | $66.28/hr | 280 |
| Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton | $138K | $66.15/hr | 1,000 |
| Harrisburg-Carlisle | $135K | $64.75/hr | 790 |
| York-Hanover | $135K | $64.67/hr | 310 |
| Lancaster | $134K | $64.23/hr | 420 |
| Scranton--Wilkes-Barre | $133K | $64.14/hr | 690 |
| State College | $133K | $64.12/hr | 140 |
| Pittsburgh | $132K | $63.44/hr | 3,540 |
| Altoona | $132K | $63.28/hr | 130 |
| Erie | $131K | $62.83/hr | 250 |
| Johnstown | $130K | $62.43/hr | 110 |
Pharmacists salary range in Pennsylvania
Pharmacists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a pharmacists make in Pennsylvania?▼
The median pharmacists salary in Pennsylvania is $135,830 per year ($65.3/hr). This is 1% below the national median of $137,480. Salaries range from $104,380 to $161,760.
What are the requirements to become a pharmacists in Pennsylvania?▼
Pharmacists positions in Pennsylvania typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Pennsylvania may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Pennsylvania licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a pharmacists afford to live in Pennsylvania?▼
At the median salary of $135,830, a pharmacists in Pennsylvania would take home approximately $8,285/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 17% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for pharmacists in Pennsylvania?▼
The highest paying metro areas for pharmacists in Pennsylvania are Williamsport ($151,140), Chambersburg ($142,320), Lebanon ($140,530). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Pennsylvania have state income tax for pharmacists?▼
Yes, Pennsylvania has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.1%. On a $135,830 salary, this means roughly $4,170/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.