Pharmacist Jobs in Vancouver, BC

Vancouver, British Columbia$143,000 - $188,500 CAD/yearFull-time
Last updated: January 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from Canadian Labour Market reports

Pharmacist Salary in Vancouver

Entry Level
$107,250
Average
$143,000 - $188,500
Senior Level
$235,625

Salaries adjusted for Vancouver's cost of living index (130% of national average).

Required Skills

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Pharmacist Job Market in Vancouver

Vancouver offers a competitive job market for Pharmacist professionals. While Technology leads the local economy, there's steady demand for Pharmacist roles across various sectors. The market for Pharmacist positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and emerging businesses. Vancouver's growing economy and quality of life attract both local talent and professionals relocating from larger cities.

Top Companies Hiring Pharmacists in Vancouver

Vancouver Coastal HealthProvidence HealthBC Cancer Agency

Major employers hiring Pharmacists in Vancouver include Vancouver Coastal Health, Providence Health, BC Cancer Agency. These organizations offer competitive compensation packages and career growth opportunities for qualified Pharmacists.

Pharmacist Salary in Vancouver vs Other Cities

Pharmacist salaries in Vancouver typically range from $143,000 to $188,500 annually. This is comparable to Toronto salaries, though Vancouver's similar cost of living may provide better value.

Cost of Living for Pharmacists in Vancouver

Living in Vancouver as a Pharmacist means navigating a cost of living that's above the national average. Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $2,600/month (53% above national average). With Pharmacist salaries starting around $110,000, budgeting carefully for housing is advisable in Vancouver.

130
Cost Index (100 = avg)
675K
Population
Yes
Tech Hub
4+
Major Industries

Commuting as a Pharmacist in Vancouver

Vancouver top-rated SkyTrain system with extensive bus network. Key transit tips: SkyTrain is fast and reliable for commuting. Canada Line connects downtown to Richmond and airport.

Best neighborhoods for Pharmacists in Vancouver: Yaletown (Tech corridor with Amazon and startups); Gastown (Historic area with creative tech firms); Mount Pleasant (Emerging tech hub with coworking spaces).

Frequently Asked Questions About Pharmacist Jobs in Vancouver

What is the average Pharmacist salary in Vancouver?

Pharmacist salaries in Vancouver typically range from $143,000 to $188,500 annually, depending on experience and company size. While Vancouver has a higher cost of living, compensation tends to reflect this.

Is Vancouver a good city for Pharmacists?

Vancouver is a major hub for Pharmacist professionals. Technology and Film are the dominant industries, creating consistent demand. The city's population of 675K supports a diverse job market with both established companies and emerging businesses.

What's the cost of living like for Pharmacists in Vancouver?

Vancouver's cost of living index is 130 (national average = 100). Housing costs are above average, so budgeting is important even with good salaries.

What skills are essential for Pharmacist roles?

Key skills for Pharmacist positions include Medication Management, Patient Counseling, Drug Interactions, as well as Regulatory Compliance and Clinical Knowledge. Employers particularly value candidates who can demonstrate practical experience with these competencies through projects, certifications, or previous work experience.

How do healthcare credentials transfer between provinces in Canada?

Healthcare credential recognition varies by profession and province. Nursing, medicine, and most allied health professions require provincial licensing. Some provinces have mutual recognition agreements. Internationally trained professionals typically need credential assessment and may require bridging programs or additional exams before practicing.

What's the job outlook for healthcare professionals in Canada?

Healthcare demand in Canada is strong and growing due to an aging population. Nursing, personal support workers, and primary care providers face acute shortages. Mental health professionals, nurse practitioners, and healthcare technology specialists are in particularly high demand. Many provinces offer incentives to attract healthcare workers.

Are healthcare salaries in Canada competitive?

Canadian healthcare salaries are generally good, with strong benefits and pension plans, especially in the public sector. While base salaries may be lower than US equivalents, total compensation including healthcare, retirement benefits, and work-life balance is competitive. Rural and remote areas often offer salary premiums and signing bonuses.

What's the difference between working in public vs private healthcare in Canada?

Most Canadian healthcare is publicly funded. Public sector roles offer job security, strong benefits, and defined pensions but may have less scheduling flexibility. Private sector opportunities (clinics, home care, pharma) may offer higher salaries and more flexibility but less job security. Many professionals work in both sectors.

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