How to Become a Pharmacists in Virginia
Pharmacists in Virginia earn a median salary of $137,470/year, which is 0% below the national average. Virginia has a state income tax of ~5.4%. After taxes and rent, a pharmacists takes home approximately $6,699/month. Most positions require Doctoral or professional degree.
What a pharmacists can afford in Virginia
Becoming a pharmacists in Virginia
Meet education requirements
Pharmacists positions in Virginia typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Virginia. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many pharmacists positions in Virginia require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Virginia licensure or certification
Virginia may require specific licensing or professional certification for pharmacistss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Virginia Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Virginia
Virginia employs 7,700 pharmacists. The highest concentrations are in Harrisonburg and Richmond.
Pharmacists salary by metro area in Virginia
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Harrisonburg | $142K | $68.5/hr | 160 |
| Richmond | $138K | $66.5/hr | 1,360 |
| Charlottesville | $137K | $65.88/hr | 300 |
| Roanoke | $135K | $65.07/hr | 390 |
| Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk | $135K | $64.87/hr | 1,600 |
| Lynchburg | $134K | $64.22/hr | 200 |
| Staunton-Stuarts Draft | $133K | $64.02/hr | 100 |
| Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford | $133K | $63.89/hr | 170 |
| Winchester | $132K | $63.47/hr | 150 |
Pharmacists salary range in Virginia
Pharmacists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a pharmacists make in Virginia?▼
The median pharmacists salary in Virginia is $137,470 per year ($66.09/hr). This is 0% below the national median of $137,480. Salaries range from $99,130 to $169,950.
What are the requirements to become a pharmacists in Virginia?▼
Pharmacists positions in Virginia typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Virginia may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Virginia licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a pharmacists afford to live in Virginia?▼
At the median salary of $137,470, a pharmacists in Virginia would take home approximately $8,111/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 Virginia?▼
The highest paying metro areas for pharmacists in Virginia are Harrisonburg ($142,470), Richmond ($138,310), Charlottesville ($137,030). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Virginia have state income tax for pharmacists?▼
Yes, Virginia has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.4%. On a $137,470 salary, this means roughly $7,388/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.