Pharmacists Salary in Riverside, CA

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, CA

Median annual salary $160,640 +16.8% vs national
Median hourly $77.23
10th percentile $126,430
90th percentile $199,330
Employed locally 3,800
National median $137,480

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Pharmacists
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    In Riverside, CA, pharmacists earn a median annual salary of $160,640, which is significantly higher than the national median for this occupation at $137,480. This reflects the demand and value placed on pharmacists within the local healthcare industry. When compared to the area's median household income of $86,031, it becomes evident that pharmacists in Riverside enjoy a substantial earning advantage over the typical household, underscoring their role as key earners in many families. The local unemployment rate is relatively low at 5.20%, suggesting a stable job market for professionals in this field.

    Entry-level pharmacists in Riverside start with earnings closer to the 10th percentile of $126,430 annually, while those at the 25th percentile earn around $150,060. With experience and advancement, salaries can rise significantly, reaching up to $178,100 at the 75th percentile or even $199,330 for pharmacists in the top 10% of earners. The substantial difference between entry-level and experienced workers' earnings is driven by factors such as years of service, specialization within the field, the complexity of responsibilities, and additional certifications or roles that may come with greater pay. These variations highlight how career growth and professional development can significantly enhance earning potential over time for pharmacists in this area.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $126,430
    25th
    $150,060
    50th (median)
    $160,640
    75th
    $178,100
    90th
    $199,330

    Riverside economic context

    Unemployment rate 5.20% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $86,031 2023 • Census ACS
    Pharmacists salary vs area income 187% Median Pharmacists salary is 87% above the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Pharmacists make per hour in Riverside?

    The median hourly wage for Pharmacists in Riverside, CA is $77.23, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $99.53 or more per hour.

    Is Riverside above or below average for Pharmacists salaries?

    The median Pharmacists salary in Riverside, CA is 16.8% above the national median of $137,480. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Pharmacists in Riverside?

    Entry-level Pharmacists (10th percentile) earn around $126,430 per year in Riverside, CA. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $150,060.