Pharmacist Salary in Canada in 2024: Latest Experts Guide

Written by

Darakasha Singh

Fact check by

Afreen Abbasi

Updated on

Nov 24,2024

Understanding Pharmacist Salary in Canada - TerraTern

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Key Highlights

Benefits of Pharmacist Jobs in Canada

  • High Demand: Pharmacists are in demand across Canada, ensuring strong job stability and numerous opportunities.

  • Competitive Salary: Enjoy attractive salary packages and benefits, with the potential for higher earnings in specialised fields.

  • Diverse Work Environments: Opportunities to work in various settings, including hospitals, retail pharmacies, and research institutions.

  • Career Growth: Access to continuous professional development and advancement opportunities, including specialised certifications.

  • Work-Life Balance: Many positions offer flexible hours and a balanced workload, contributing to a positive work-life balance.

Latest Facts and News

  • Rising Demand: Canada’s growing need for pharmacists due to an ageing population and expanded roles in healthcare.

  • Salary Increase: Average pharmacist salaries in Canada are up, reflecting the profession’s importance.

  • Regulatory Changes: New regulations allow Canadian pharmacists to prescribe medications and administer injections.

  • Tech Integration: Canadian pharmacies are adopting digital tools and telepharmacy services for better medication management and patient care.


Understanding pharmacist salary in Canada is crucial for anyone considering a career in pharmacy or looking to advance in the field. The pharmacist's salary in Canada varies based on several factors, including geographic location, experience, education, and specialisation. Prospective and current pharmacists can gain insights into potential earnings and career prospects by examining these elements. Whether you are a new graduate or an experienced professional, knowing the nuances of pharmacist salary in Canada can help you make informed decisions about your career path and financial expectations. This guide, crafted by the experts in our organisation, provides a comprehensive overview of how these factors influence pharmacist salaries in Canada.

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Factors Influencing Indian Pharmacist Salaries in Canada

Understanding the factors influencing pharmacist salary in Canada is essential for those pursuing or advancing in a pharmacy career. The primary elements affecting pharmacist salary in Canada include geographic location, experience, education, and specialisation:

1. Geographic Location

The pharmacist's salary in Canada varies significantly depending on the province or territory. Urban areas with higher living costs generally offer higher salaries to compensate for the increased expense. Regional salary differences reflect the variation in demand and cost of living across Canada.

2. Experience and Education

Experience and educational qualifications play a crucial role in determining pharmacist salary in Canada. Those with extensive experience and advanced degrees often command higher salaries. Career advancement and continuous professional development are vital for increasing earning potential.

3. Specialisation and Certifications

Specialising in certain fields and obtaining additional certifications can enhance pharmacist salary in Canada. Specialised roles and certified positions typically offer higher pay, emphasising the benefits of further training and expertise.

Also Read: Immigrate to Canada

Average Pharmacist Salary in Canada

The average pharmacist salary in Canada varies significantly by region, reflecting differences in cost of living and demand for pharmacy professionals. Here are some key statistics:

  • Ontario: $100,000 to $110,000 per year.

  • British Columbia: $95,000 to $105,000 per year.

  • Alberta: $98,000 to $108,000 per year.

  • Quebec: $90,000 to $100,000 per year.

  • Manitoba: $85,000 to $95,000 per year.

These figures highlight regional variations in pharmacist salaries in Canada. Salaries can also be influenced by factors such as work setting, level of experience, and additional certifications.

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Comparing Pharmacist Salaries with Other Healthcare Professions

Understanding the differences in salaries among various healthcare professions is crucial for those considering a career in pharmacy or other medical fields. While the pharmacist salary in Canada offers a competitive and rewarding career path, it is important to compare it with other healthcare professions to gauge its relative value.

1. Pharmacists vs. Nurses 

When comparing pharmacists' salaries in Canada with nurses', pharmacists generally earn higher salaries. The average pharmacist salary in Canada is approximately $95,000 to $105,000 annually, while registered nurses typically earn between $70,000 and $85,000 per year. This salary difference reflects the advanced education and specialised training required for pharmacists.

2. Pharmacists vs. Doctors

The salary disparity between pharmacists and doctors is notable. While the average pharmacist salary Canada ranges from $90,000 to $110,000, doctors' earnings are significantly higher, often exceeding $200,000 annually. The higher compensation for doctors is attributed to their extended education and the critical nature of their medical responsibilities.

3. Pharmacists vs. Dentists 

When comparing pharmacist salaries in Canada with dentists, dentists generally earn more. The average pharmacist salary in Canada ranges from $90,000 to $110,000 per year, while dentists typically earn between $150,000 and $200,000 annually. The higher salary for dentists reflects the additional years of specialised training and the high demand for dental services.

Average Salary of Pharmacists in Various Provinces of Canada

Here's a table displaying the average pharmacist salary Canada according to the various provinces:

Province

Average Annual Salary (CAD)

Average Annual Salary (INR)

Ontario

CAD 100,000

INR 60,00,000

British Columbia

CAD 95,000

INR 57,00,000

Alberta

CAD 105,000

INR 63,00,000

Quebec

CAD 90,000

INR 54,00,000

Manitoba

CAD 85,000

INR 51,00,000

Nova Scotia

CAD 80,000

INR 48,00,000

Saskatchewan

CAD 95,000

INR 57,00,000

New Brunswick

CAD 85,000

INR 51,00,000

 

Eligibility Criteria for Pharmacist Jobs in Canada

To secure a pharmacist position in Canada, meeting the following eligibility criteria is essential:

1. Educational Requirements

  • Degree in Pharmacy: You must have a Bachelor of Pharmacy or Doctor of Pharmacy from an accredited institution. This is a fundamental requirement for pursuing a career and influencing the pharmacist salary in Canada.

2. Licensing and Certification

  • Licensing Exam: Passing the Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada (PEBC) exam is necessary. This certification ensures eligibility for practising pharmacy in Canada and affects the potential pharmacist salary in Canada.

3. Experience and Skills

  • Clinical Experience: Relevant work experience, including internships or residencies, can enhance your job prospects and impact the pharmacist salary in Canada.

4. Language Proficiency

  • English or French Proficiency: Proficiency in English or French is required, depending on the region, to effectively communicate with patients and healthcare teams.

These criteria collectively influence the pharmacist salary in Canada, reflecting the qualifications and expertise required for the role.

Also Read:  Canada's July Express Entry: 3,200 French Pros Invited

Tips for Negotiating a Higher Salary

When aiming to improve your pharmacist salary in Canada, effective negotiation is key. Here are some actionable tips to help you secure a better salary:

  • Research Industry Standards: Know the average pharmacist salary in Canada and use this information as a benchmark.

  • Highlight Your Experience: Emphasise relevant experience and any specialised skills contributing to higher value.

  • Prepare for Negotiation: Be ready to discuss how your skills and experience align with the company's needs.

  • Seek Additional Benefits: If salary increases are limited, negotiate for additional perks like flexible hours or professional development opportunities.

Read More: Canada Minimum Wage Per Month: Experts Latest Guide 2024

Conclusion

Understanding the pharmacist's salary in Canada is essential for career planning and advancement. You can make informed decisions about your career by exploring regional salary differences, considering factors such as experience and specialisation, and comparing salaries with other healthcare professions. Additionally, negotiating effectively can help you secure a better salary and improve your overall job satisfaction. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance in your career, being well-informed about salary trends and negotiation tactics will position you for success in the dynamic field of pharmacy.

To learn more about pharmacist salaries in Canada and to find more ways to immigrate to Canada, you must contact TerraTern right away. With more than a hundred services offered and an expert team, TerraTern will help you move to Canada in record time!

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Darakasha Singh

Content Marketing Specialist

Darakasha Singh is a passionate content-writing enthusiast at TerraTern, where she contributes insightful articles on a range of critical topics, with a particular focus on immigration and education. She has more than five years of experience in the field and has been a part of several organizations that work toward education, cultural exchange, and immigration. Darakasha's writing is not only informative but also empathetic, reflecting her commitment to providing readers with content that is both useful and engaging. At TerraTern, she has quickly become a valued team member, known for her meticulous research, engaging prose, and unwavering dedication to empowering others through knowledge.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Average Pharmacist Salary in Canada?

The average pharmacist salary Canada typically ranges from CAD 90,000 to CAD 100,000 per year. Salaries vary by province, with higher earnings in major urban centres such as Toronto and Vancouver. For example, pharmacists in Alberta and British Columbia often see higher salaries due to the increased cost of living and demand for healthcare professionals. Rural areas might offer additional incentives but generally lower base salaries. Understanding these regional differences is crucial for evaluating potential earnings.

How Does Location Affect Pharmacist Salaries in Canada?

Location significantly impacts pharmacist salary Canada. Urban centres like Toronto and Vancouver offer higher salaries, ranging from CAD 100,000 to CAD 110,000, due to the high cost of living. In contrast, pharmacists in rural areas may earn less base salary but could receive additional incentives. Regional variations across provinces reflect differing economic conditions and healthcare funding, influencing salary levels. Evaluating these location-based differences helps pharmacists make informed career decisions and salary expectations.

Do Pharmacists Earn More with Additional Certifications?

Yes, additional certifications can lead to higher salaries for pharmacists. Specialisations in areas like oncology or paediatrics, and advanced certifications such as Board-Certified Pharmacotherapy Specialist (BCPS), typically result in increased earnings. These certifications demonstrate advanced expertise, which is valued by employers and can justify higher pay. Investing in specialised training not only enhances career prospects but also improves earning potential, making it a worthwhile consideration for career advancement in the field of pharmacy.

How Does a Pharmacist's Experience Level Impact Their Salary?

A pharmacist’s salary generally increases with experience. Entry-level pharmacists earn around CAD 70,000 to CAD 80,000 annually. As pharmacists gain experience and move into mid-level roles, their salaries rise to CAD 85,000 to CAD 95,000. Senior pharmacists with extensive experience and specialised skills can earn over CAD 100,000. This progression reflects the value of accumulated experience and professional expertise, making experience a key factor in determining salary levels within the pharmacy profession.

How Do Pharmacist Salaries Compare to Other Healthcare Roles?

Pharmacists typically earn between CAD 90,000 and CAD 100,000 annually, which is higher than registered nurses, who average CAD 80,000 to CAD 90,000. However, pharmacists earn less than doctors, whose salaries range from CAD 150,000 to CAD 300,000, and dentists, who earn between CAD 120,000 and CAD 200,000. Compared to physiotherapists, who make around CAD 75,000 to CAD 85,000, pharmacists generally have higher salaries, reflecting their specialised training and role in healthcare.