How to Become a Pharmacists in Washington
Pharmacists in Washington earn a median salary of $160,610/year, which is 14% above the national average. Washington has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a pharmacists takes home approximately $8,000/month. Most positions require Doctoral or professional degree.
What a pharmacists can afford in Washington
Becoming a pharmacists in Washington
Meet education requirements
Pharmacists positions in Washington typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Washington. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many pharmacists positions in Washington require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Washington licensure or certification
Washington may require specific licensing or professional certification for pharmacists. Requirements vary by state, contact the Washington Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Washington
Washington employs 7,350 pharmacists. The highest concentrations are in Longview-Kelso and Walla Walla.
Pharmacists salary by metro area in Washington
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Longview-Kelso | $173K | $83/hr | 70 |
| Walla Walla | $165K | $79.43/hr | 60 |
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue | $163K | $78.3/hr | 4,440 |
| Mount Vernon-Anacortes | $159K | $76.59/hr | 110 |
| Kennewick-Richland | $158K | $76.02/hr | 220 |
| Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard | $158K | $75.97/hr | 140 |
| Bellingham | $156K | $75.24/hr | 140 |
| Wenatchee-East Wenatchee | $156K | $75.24/hr | 120 |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley | $156K | $74.79/hr | 710 |
| Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater | $155K | $74.45/hr | 220 |
| Yakima | $147K | $70.51/hr | 180 |
Pharmacists salary range in Washington
Pharmacists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a pharmacists make in Washington?▼
The median pharmacists salary in Washington is $160,610 per year ($77.22/hr). This is 14% above the national median of $140,910. Salaries range from $126,230 to $205,210.
What are the requirements to become a pharmacists in Washington?▼
Pharmacists positions in Washington typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Washington may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Washington licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a pharmacists afford to live in Washington?▼
At the median salary of $160,610, a pharmacists in Washington would take home approximately $10,044/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $2,044/month, that's 20.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for pharmacists in Washington?▼
The highest paying metro areas for pharmacists in Washington are Longview-Kelso ($172,630), Walla Walla ($165,210), Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue ($162,870). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Washington have state income tax for pharmacists?▼
No, Washington does not have a state income tax. This means pharmacists keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax, a significant advantage for affordability.