How much does a Pharmacy Intern make?
Pharmacy interns earn a yearly salary that can vary widely based on many factors, including their location and the type of employer. On average, they make about $51,511 per year. This salary can help interns cover their living expenses and student loans while they gain valuable experience in the field.
The salary range for pharmacy interns can stretch from around $36,000 to over $78,000. Many interns start on the lower end of this scale. As they gain more experience and skills, their pay can increase. Some interns may also receive additional benefits, like health insurance and retirement plans, from their employers.
What are the highest paying cities for a Pharmacy Intern?

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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $62,286
Work in Silicon Valley, a tech hub with many medical facilities. Gain hands-on experience at prominent pharmacies like Walgreens or CVS.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $61,653
Enjoy a slower pace in Santa Rosa while working in a supportive community. Learn from experienced pharmacists at local chains.
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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $60,168
Experience a tight-knit community in Modesto. Get practical experience at well-known pharmacies like Rite Aid.
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Pueblo, CO
Average Salary: $59,850
Discover a blend of urban and rural settings in Pueblo. Work alongside seasoned professionals at major pharmacies.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $59,750
Work in the state capital of Sacramento. Benefit from the city's diverse healthcare facilities. Gain experience at local chains.
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Fresno, CA
Average Salary: $57,172
Explore Fresno’s vibrant culture and agricultural roots. Learn in various settings at prominent pharmacies.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $56,274
Experience the hustle and bustle of San Francisco. Work in a dynamic healthcare environment at renowned pharmacies.
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Fort Myers, FL
Average Salary: $55,995
Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere in Fort Myers. Gain valuable experience in a coastal city at major pharmacy chains.
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Bakersfield, CA
Average Salary: $55,588
Discover Bakersfield’s unique blend of urban and rural settings. Learn in various settings at local pharmacies.
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Winston-Salem, NC
Average Salary: $55,179
Work in Winston-Salem’s historic and educational environment. Gain experience at well-known pharmacy chains in the area.
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What are the best companies a Pharmacy Intern can work for?

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Kaiser Permanente
Average Salary: $75,333
Kaiser Permanente offers rewarding Pharmacy Intern jobs across its locations in the West and Midwest. Interns work closely with experienced pharmacists to gain hands-on experience in patient care and medication management. Kaiser Permanente operates in multiple states including California, Washington, and Colorado.
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NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital
Average Salary: $74,555
NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital provides a dynamic environment for Pharmacy Interns in New York City. Interns collaborate with a team of healthcare professionals to ensure the safe and effective use of medications. This leading hospital offers state-of-the-art facilities and opportunities for professional growth.
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Northwell Health
Average Salary: $60,000
At Northwell Health, Pharmacy Interns contribute to patient care in various settings across New York. Interns work under supervision to learn about dispensing medications and patient counseling. Northwell Health boasts a network of hospitals and clinics providing comprehensive healthcare services.
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Mount Sinai Health System
Average Salary: $58,984
Mount Sinai Health System offers Pharmacy Intern positions in New York City, providing extensive training and experience. Interns assist pharmacists in preparing and distributing medications. This health system is known for its research and educational opportunities.
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King Soopers
Average Salary: $58,579
King Soopers is part of Kroger and offers Pharmacy Intern roles in Colorado. Interns work in retail pharmacy settings, gaining experience in customer service and pharmacy operations. King Soopers provides a supportive environment for learning and growth.
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Safeway
Average Salary: $56,463
Safeway offers Pharmacy Intern opportunities in several states, including California and Washington. Interns learn about pharmacy practices and customer interaction in a retail setting. Safeway provides a friendly and educational environment for pharmacy interns.
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Walgreens
Average Salary: $54,716
Walgreens offers Pharmacy Intern positions nationwide. Interns gain practical experience in retail pharmacy settings, learning about medication management and customer service. Walgreens is a leading pharmacy chain with many locations across the country.
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Vons
Average Salary: $53,818
Vons, part of Albertsons, offers Pharmacy Intern roles in California. Interns work in retail pharmacy settings, gaining valuable experience in dispensing medications and patient care. Vons provides a supportive and educational environment for pharmacy interns.
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Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center
Average Salary: $53,730
Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center offers Pharmacy Intern positions in Idaho. Interns work in a hospital setting, learning about patient care and medication management. This medical center provides a supportive environment for professional growth.
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Fairview Health Services
Average Salary: $53,209
Fairview Health Services offers Pharmacy Intern roles in Minnesota. Interns gain experience in a hospital setting, focusing on patient care and medication management. Fairview Health Services is known for its commitment to quality healthcare.
How to earn more as a Pharmacy Intern?
Aspiring pharmacists who start as interns can increase their earning potential by focusing on several key areas. Building a solid foundation during this early stage not only enhances skills but also opens doors to higher-paying opportunities. Here are five essential factors that can help a Pharmacy Intern earn more.
Firstly, gaining experience in various pharmacy settings can significantly boost earning potential. Interns who rotate through different types of pharmacies, such as hospital, retail, or specialty, become more versatile. This experience makes them more attractive to employers looking for well-rounded candidates. Secondly, obtaining additional certifications can lead to higher pay. Certifications in areas like immunization or medication therapy management demonstrate a commitment to professional development and can result in higher wages.
- Gain experience in various pharmacy settings
- Obtain additional certifications
- Enhance communication skills
- Seek mentorship and feedback
- Network with professionals
Enhancing communication skills is another critical factor. Clear and effective communication ensures accurate information transfer and improves patient care. Pharmacy interns who can articulate well are more likely to be trusted with more responsibilities, leading to higher pay. Seeking mentorship and feedback from experienced pharmacists provides valuable insights. Constructive feedback helps interns improve and grow faster, which can lead to quicker promotions and salary increases. Lastly, networking with professionals in the field can open doors to better job opportunities and higher salaries. Attending pharmacy conferences and joining professional organizations can help interns connect with others and learn about new opportunities.



