Pharmacist Salary in Santa Cruz, CA

Updated on Jun 05, 2025
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Salary

How much does a Pharmacist make in Santa Cruz, CA?

The average salary for a Pharmacist is $173,550 per year in Santa Cruz, CA.

Pharmacists in Santa Cruz, CA, enjoy a competitive salary that reflects their vital role in healthcare. On average, pharmacists earn around $173,550 per year. This figure can vary based on experience, education, and the specific employer. For those just starting, salaries may be on the lower end of the range, but experienced professionals can earn significantly more.

The salary range for pharmacists in Santa Cruz spans from approximately $126,800 to $201,030. This range highlights the potential for growth and advancement. Pharmacists can increase their earnings through additional certifications, specializations, and by working in high-demand settings such as hospitals or clinics. The local cost of living and demand for healthcare services also play a role in determining salaries.

Pharmacist jobs in Santa Cruz, CA

What are the highest paying cities for a Pharmacist near Santa Cruz, CA?

Pharmacists near Santa Cruz, CA, can find some of the best pay in Palo Alto, where the average salary is $171,986. Monterey offers a close second with an average salary of $162,239. San Jose, with its bustling job market, provides an average salary of $159,950 for pharmacists. These cities offer competitive salaries, making them attractive options for job seekers.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Pharmacist jobs near Santa Cruz, CA, highlighting Palo Alto, CA with the highest at $171,986 and Seaside, CA with the lowest at $134,630.
  1. Palo Alto, CA
    Average Salary: $171,986
    Palo Alto offers a dynamic environment with top-tier healthcare facilities. Pharmacies here often collaborate with tech giants, providing unique opportunities. Companies like CVS and Walgreens are prominent in the area.
    Find Pharmacist jobs in Palo Alto, CA


  2. Monterey, CA
    Average Salary: $162,239
    Monterey provides a serene setting with a strong community focus. Pharmacies here emphasize personalized care. Local chains like Rite Aid are well-established.
    Find Pharmacist jobs in Monterey, CA


  3. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $159,950
    San Jose is a bustling tech hub with many opportunities in healthcare. Pharmacies often work with tech companies, offering innovative services. Major chains like Walgreens and CVS are common.
    Find Pharmacist jobs in San Jose, CA


  4. Salinas, CA
    Average Salary: $154,323
    Salinas offers a close-knit community with a growing healthcare sector. Pharmacies here focus on community health. Local pharmacies and chains like CVS are prevalent.
    Find Pharmacist jobs in Salinas, CA


  5. Watsonville, CA
    Average Salary: $144,660
    Watsonville provides a supportive environment with a strong emphasis on community health. Pharmacies here often work closely with local clinics. Local chains and CVS are popular.
    Find Pharmacist jobs in Watsonville, CA


  6. Capitola, CA
    Average Salary: $138,369
    Capitola offers a peaceful setting with a focus on wellness. Pharmacies here emphasize holistic care. Local pharmacies and chains like Walgreens are common.
    Find Pharmacist jobs in Capitola, CA


  7. Scotts Valley, CA
    Average Salary: $138,150
    Scotts Valley provides a tranquil environment with a strong community focus. Pharmacies here offer personalized services. Local chains and CVS are well-established.
    Find Pharmacist jobs in Scotts Valley, CA


  8. Hollister, CA
    Average Salary: $136,280
    Hollister offers a welcoming community with a growing healthcare sector. Pharmacies here focus on patient care. Local pharmacies and chains like Rite Aid are prevalent.
    Find Pharmacist jobs in Hollister, CA


  9. Los Gatos, CA
    Average Salary: $135,360
    Los Gatos provides a vibrant environment with many healthcare opportunities. Pharmacies here often collaborate with tech companies, offering innovative services. Major chains like Walgreens are common.
    Find Pharmacist jobs in Los Gatos, CA


  10. Seaside, CA
    Average Salary: $134,630
    Seaside offers a serene setting with a strong emphasis on community health. Pharmacies here focus on personalized care. Local pharmacies and chains like CVS are popular.
    Find Pharmacist jobs in Seaside, CA

What are the best paying companies for a Pharmacist in Santa Cruz, CA?

Pharmacists in Santa Cruz, CA, can find excellent opportunities with top-paying companies. Sutter Health leads with a high average salary of $192,904. Dignity Health also offers a competitive salary of $188,758. These companies provide rewarding careers and attractive compensation packages.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Pharmacist jobs in Santa Cruz, CA, highlighting Sutter Health with the highest at $192,904 and CVS Health with the lowest at $141,200.
  1. Sutter Health
    Average Salary: $192,904
    Sutter Health offers rewarding Pharmacist jobs in Santa Cruz, CA. They operate several locations, including Santa Cruz Medical Center. Pharmacists here enjoy a supportive environment and opportunities for professional growth.


  2. Dignity Health
    Average Salary: $188,758
    Dignity Health provides excellent Pharmacist positions in Santa Cruz, CA. They have facilities like Dominican Hospital. Pharmacists here benefit from a strong community focus and a commitment to patient care.


  3. Albertsons
    Average Salary: $154,833
    Albertsons offers competitive Pharmacist jobs in Santa Cruz, CA. They have multiple locations, including stores in Scotts Valley and Capitola. Pharmacists here enjoy a dynamic work environment and opportunities to connect with the community.


  4. CVS Health
    Average Salary: $141,200
    CVS Health provides Pharmacist jobs in Santa Cruz, CA. They have several pharmacies in the area, including those in Santa Cruz and Scotts Valley. Pharmacists here benefit from a well-established company with a focus on customer service and health care.

Currently 7,236 Pharmacist job openings, nationwide.

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Pharmacist
7,236 Job Openings