Pharmacist Salary in Illinois
The median pharmacist salary in Illinois is $128,768 per year, which is 3% below the national median of $132,750.
Pharmacist Salary Overview in Illinois (2026)
Illinois ranks #23 out of 50 states for pharmacist compensation. Illinois falls in the middle of the pack for pharmacist pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $128,768 per year, pharmacists in Illinois earn $3,982 less than the national median of $132,750.
Illinois's cost of living is near the national average at 95%, meaning pharmacist salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Illinois is significant: pharmacists at the 10th percentile earn $93,314, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $160,826 — a $67,512 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Illinois for this role is Naperville, where the median reaches $146,025.
Nationally, pharmacist employment is projected to grow 2% over the next decade (slower than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for pharmacists across the country.
Pharmacist Salary in Illinois by Experience
In Illinois, an entry-level pharmacist earns around $97,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $153,260 per year. The cost of living index in Illinois is 95% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Illinois
| Percentile | IL Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $93,314 |
| 25th Percentile | $113,490 |
| Median (50th) | $128,768 |
| 75th Percentile | $147,634 |
| 90th Percentile | $160,826 |
Pharmacist Salary by City in Illinois
The largest employment areas for pharmacists in Illinois include Chicago, Aurora, Naperville, and Rockford. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Pharmacist in Illinois
Education
Most pharmacist positions require a doctoral degree. Illinois has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Illinois
Nationally, pharmacist employment is projected to grow 2% over the next decade (slower than average). Illinois's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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