Pharmacists Salary
Median salary £47,508 per year (2025). Based on ONS ASHE data.
Gross pay, before deductions. See take-home pay on £48,000 after tax and National Insurance →
For pharmacists, £53,772 is the typical (median) pay. That is well above the UK full-time median of £39,039 — +38% versus the national average. Experienced pharmacists (top 25%) earn over £57,338.
About this role
Pharmacists ensure the safe and effective use of medicines. They dispense prescriptions, provide clinical advice on medication, monitor drug interactions and support patients in managing their health through pharmaceutical care, as classified under the 2020 Standard Occupational Classification.
Key responsibilities
- Dispensing prescriptions accurately and safely
- Advising patients and healthcare professionals on medication use
- Monitoring for drug interactions and adverse effects
- Managing pharmacy operations and stock
- Providing public health services (e.g., vaccinations, health checks)
Qualifications and entry routes
Requires an MPharm degree (4 years) followed by a foundation training year. Registration with the GPhC (General Pharmaceutical Council) is mandatory.
Career outlook
Expanding clinical role in primary care. Demand is stable, with growing opportunities in prescribing, clinical pharmacology and specialist hospital roles.
Key skills
Common industries
- Community pharmacy
- Hospital pharmacy
- NHS
- Pharmaceutical industry
- Primary care
Data coverage
Salary Range (2025)
Estimated Career Progression
Based on salary percentile distribution for this occupation
Entry Level
£23,171
0-2 years
Mid Level
£32,284
3-7 years
Senior
£57,338
8-15 years
Potential career growth: ▲ +147% from entry to leadership
Salary Trend (2015-2025)
Gender Pay Comparison (2025)
Gender pay gap: 23.1%
Full-time vs All Employees (2025)
Full-time premium: +£6,264
Pharmacists salary: common questions
How much do pharmacists earn in the UK?
Is £53,772 a good salary in the UK?
What is the starting salary for pharmacists?
Have pharmacists salaries kept up with inflation?
Is there a gender pay gap for pharmacists?
Figures: ONS Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings, gross annual pay. UK full-time median £39,039 (2025).