Job outlooks for Pharmacists

Discover the employment prospects for your dream job across Canada, or compare different occupations.

Occupation

community pharmacist (31120)

Location

All regions across Canada

Did you know? You can visit the Open Government Portal to search through and download our Employment Outlooks data all in one place. There, you will find current and previous versions of our 3-Year Employment Outlooks reports for the periods of 2013-2015 to 2024-2026. View the dataset on the Open Government Portal.

These outlooks were updated on December 11, 2024.

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  • Newfoundland and LabradorGood

    The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in Newfoundland and Labrador for the 2024-2026 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
    • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

    Since April 2023, the provincial government has expanded the scope of practice for pharmacists, so they can extend prescriptions for up to a year instead of 90 days. In addition, they can now assess and prescribe for certain ailments and conditions, with pharmacist fees being covered through the Newfoundland and Labrador Prescription Drug Plan. This has been done to help reduce visits to emergency rooms and walk-in clinics for relatively minor issues.

    Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in Newfoundland and Labrador:

    • Approximately 950 people work in this occupation.
    • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Other retail stores (NAICS 44-45, except 445): 79%
      • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 20%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 89% compared to 83% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 11% compared to 17% for all occupations
    • 83% of pharmacists work all year, while 18% work only part of the year, compared to 56% and 43% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 48 weeks compared to 40 weeks for all occupations.
    • 11% of pharmacists are self-employed compared to an average of 8% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 44% compared to 51% for all occupations
      • Women: 56% compared to 49% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: n/a
      • high school diploma or equivalent: n/a
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: n/a
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 16% compared to 23% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 69% compared to 14% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 12% compared to 7% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Avalon Peninsula Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be moderate for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Avalon Peninsula region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Avalon Peninsula region:

      • Approximately 570 people work in this occupation.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 82%
        • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 16%

    • Notre Dame-Central-Bonavista Bay Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the South Coast - Burin Peninsula and Notre Dame - Central Bonavista Bay regions for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Several positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the South Coast - Burin Peninsula and Notre Dame - Central Bonavista Bay regions:

      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 82%
        • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 18%

    • South Coast–Burin Peninsula Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the South Coast - Burin Peninsula and Notre Dame - Central Bonavista Bay regions for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Several positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the South Coast - Burin Peninsula and Notre Dame - Central Bonavista Bay regions:

      • Approximately 170 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 82%
        • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 18%

    • West Coast–Northern Peninsula–Labrador Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the West Coast - Northern Peninsula - Labrador region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Several positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the West Coast - Northern Peninsula - Labrador region:

      • Approximately 70 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 60%
        • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 40%

  • Prince Edward IslandGood

    The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in Prince Edward Island for the 2024-2026 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
    • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.

    As the Island population continues to expand and age, the growing need for prescription drugs and health services will support the demand for this occupation. An increase in the number of pharmacies at retail chains, combined with added services to improve access to care, may add to employment opportunities.


    As part of their annual licensing requirements, pharmacists must take a certain amount of continuing education in order keep up to date on industry and product information. In addition, as alternative remedies and non-prescription medicines become more popular and the demand for other health professions increases, the teaching or consulting role of pharmacists will continue to evolve.

    Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in Prince Edward Island:

    • Approximately 250 people work in this occupation.
    • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Other retail stores (NAICS 44-45, except 445): 80%
      • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 17%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 89% compared to 84% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 11% compared to 16% for all occupations
    • 77% of pharmacists work all year, while 23% work only part of the year, compared to 59% and 41% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 48 weeks compared to 41 weeks for all occupations.
    • 11% of pharmacists are self-employed compared to an average of 13% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 30% compared to 51% for all occupations
      • Women: 70% compared to 49% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: n/a
      • high school diploma or equivalent: n/a
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: n/a
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: n/a
      • bachelor's degree: 83% compared to 17% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 17% compared to 8% for all occupations

  • Nova ScotiaGood

    The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in Nova Scotia for the 2024-2026 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
    • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
    • Recent graduates from fields of study related to this occupation have found it difficult to find work.

    During the past decade, a surplus of pharmacists has given way to a shortage. Pharmacists looking for work in the province should have little difficulty finding employment. Larger employers such as chain pharmacies and grocery stores are hiring continuously, while smaller independent pharmacies hire occasionally as needed.

    

    Demand for this occupation has increased due to the aging and growing population in the province. Pharmacists have also been part of a trend of broadening scope of practice for health care professionals in the context of a physician shortage. Due to both factors, upward pressure on salaries has been noted, improving opportunities for jobseekers. The wider scope of practice has also served to increase in interest in the profession; even so, the domestic supply of new graduates is currently not meeting demand, so some employers have been recruiting internationally.

    Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in Nova Scotia:

    • Approximately 1,000 people work in this occupation.
    • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Other retail stores (NAICS 44-45, except 445): 85%
      • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 13%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 78% compared to 82% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 22% compared to 18% for all occupations
    • 81% of pharmacists work all year, while 19% work only part of the year, compared to 62% and 38% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 47 weeks compared to 42 weeks for all occupations.
    • 9% of pharmacists are self-employed compared to an average of 11% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 26% compared to 51% for all occupations
      • Women: 74% compared to 49% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: n/a
      • high school diploma or equivalent: less than 5% compared to 27% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: n/a
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: less than 5% compared to 22% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 80% compared to 20% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 18% compared to 10% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Annapolis Valley Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Annapolis Valley region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • Recent graduates from fields of study related to this occupation have found it difficult to find work.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Annapolis Valley region:

      • Approximately 110 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 85%
        • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 15%

    • Cape Breton Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Cape Breton region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • Recent graduates from fields of study related to this occupation have found it difficult to find work.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Cape Breton region:

      • Approximately 170 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 90%
        • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 10%

    • Halifax Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Halifax region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • Recent graduates from fields of study related to this occupation have found it difficult to find work.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Halifax region:

      • Approximately 560 people work in this occupation.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 85%
        • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 14%

    • North Shore Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the North Shore region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • Recent graduates from fields of study related to this occupation have found it difficult to find work.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the North Shore region:

      • Approximately 150 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 83%
        • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 17%

    • Southern Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Southern region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • Recent graduates from fields of study related to this occupation have found it difficult to find work.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Southern region:

      • Approximately 110 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 84%
        • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 16%

  • New BrunswickGood

    The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in New Brunswick for the 2024-2026 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
    • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
    • As the population continues to age, the growing need for prescription drugs and health services will support the demand for this occupation. An increase in the number of pharmacies at retail chains, combined with added services to improve access to care, may add to employment opportunities.
    • Furthermore, resource pressures across the health delivery network have resulted in an expanded role for pharmacists in service delivery, enabling them to provide a broader range of services. Pharmacists may prescribe medicines; give COVID, flu shots, and other vaccines; assess, treat and prescribe for certain minor ailments and review medications and provide health checks. On the other hand, with the advent of the regulated Pharmacy Technician, it is possible that some employers may choose to reduce pharmacist hours in favor of the latter, as these professionals are less costly to employ.
    • Shift work in this field is common. More opportunities will be available to those who speak French, as there are more vacancies in the province's francophone communities. As part of their annual licensing requirements, pharmacists must take a certain amount of continuing education in order keep up to date on industry and product information.
    • In order to work in New Brunswick, a pharmacist must register with the New Brunswick College of Pharmacists. Candidates must undergo a criminal record check.

    Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in New Brunswick:

    • Approximately 750 people work in this occupation.
    • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Other retail stores (NAICS 44-45, except 445): 83%
      • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 14%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 88% compared to 84% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 12% compared to 16% for all occupations
    • 82% of pharmacists work all year, while 18% work only part of the year, compared to 62% and 38% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 47 weeks compared to 42 weeks for all occupations.
    • 15% of pharmacists are self-employed compared to an average of 10% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 32% compared to 52% for all occupations
      • Women: 68% compared to 48% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: n/a
      • high school diploma or equivalent: less than 5% compared to 30% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: n/a
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: n/a
      • bachelor's degree: 75% compared to 16% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 23% compared to 7% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Campbellton–Miramichi Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Campbellton - Miramichi region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • As the population continues to age, the growing need for prescription drugs and health services will support the demand for this occupation. An increase in the number of pharmacies at retail chains, combined with added services to improve access to care, may add to employment opportunities.
      • Furthermore, resource pressures across the health delivery network have resulted in an expanded role for pharmacists in service delivery, enabling them to provide a broader range of services. Pharmacists may prescribe medicines; give COVID, flu shots, and other vaccines; assess, treat and prescribe for certain minor ailments and review medications and provide health checks. On the other hand, with the advent of the regulated Pharmacy Technician, it is possible that some employers may choose to reduce pharmacist hours in favor of the latter, as these professionals are less costly to employ.
      • Shift work in this field is common. More opportunities will be available to those who speak French, as there are more vacancies in the province's francophone communities. As part of their annual licensing requirements, pharmacists must take a certain amount of continuing education in order keep up to date on industry and product information.
      • In order to work in New Brunswick, a pharmacist must register with the New Brunswick College of Pharmacists. Candidates must undergo a criminal record check.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Campbellton - Miramichi region:

      • Approximately 170 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 85%
        • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 15%

    • Edmundston–Woodstock Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Edmundston - Woodstock region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • As the population continues to age, the growing need for prescription drugs and health services will support the demand for this occupation. An increase in the number of pharmacies at retail chains, combined with added services to improve access to care, may add to employment opportunities.
      • Furthermore, resource pressures across the health delivery network have resulted in an expanded role for pharmacists in service delivery, enabling them to provide a broader range of services. Pharmacists may prescribe medicines; give COVID, flu shots, and other vaccines; assess, treat and prescribe for certain minor ailments and review medications and provide health checks. On the other hand, with the advent of the regulated Pharmacy Technician, it is possible that some employers may choose to reduce pharmacist hours in favor of the latter, as these professionals are less costly to employ.
      • Shift work in this field is common. More opportunities will be available to those who speak French, as there are more vacancies in the province's francophone communities. As part of their annual licensing requirements, pharmacists must take a certain amount of continuing education in order keep up to date on industry and product information.
      • In order to work in New Brunswick, a pharmacist must register with the New Brunswick College of Pharmacists. Candidates must undergo a criminal record check.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Edmundston - Woodstock region:

      • Approximately 90 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 92%
        • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 8%

    • Fredericton–Oromocto Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Fredericton - Oromocto region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • As the population continues to age, the growing need for prescription drugs and health services will support the demand for this occupation. An increase in the number of pharmacies at retail chains, combined with added services to improve access to care, may add to employment opportunities.
      • Furthermore, resource pressures across the health delivery network have resulted in an expanded role for pharmacists in service delivery, enabling them to provide a broader range of services. Pharmacists may prescribe medicines; give COVID, flu shots, and other vaccines; assess, treat and prescribe for certain minor ailments and review medications and provide health checks. On the other hand, with the advent of the regulated Pharmacy Technician, it is possible that some employers may choose to reduce pharmacist hours in favor of the latter, as these professionals are less costly to employ.
      • Shift work in this field is common. More opportunities will be available to those who speak French, as there are more vacancies in the province's francophone communities. As part of their annual licensing requirements, pharmacists must take a certain amount of continuing education in order keep up to date on industry and product information.
      • In order to work in New Brunswick, a pharmacist must register with the New Brunswick College of Pharmacists. Candidates must undergo a criminal record check.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Fredericton - Oromocto region:

      • Approximately 240 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 87%
        • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 10%

    • Moncton–Richibucto Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Moncton - Richibucto region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • As the population continues to age, the growing need for prescription drugs and health services will support the demand for this occupation. An increase in the number of pharmacies at retail chains, combined with added services to improve access to care, may add to employment opportunities.
      • Furthermore, resource pressures across the health delivery network have resulted in an expanded role for pharmacists in service delivery, enabling them to provide a broader range of services. Pharmacists may prescribe medicines; give COVID, flu shots, and other vaccines; assess, treat and prescribe for certain minor ailments and review medications and provide health checks. On the other hand, with the advent of the regulated Pharmacy Technician, it is possible that some employers may choose to reduce pharmacist hours in favor of the latter, as these professionals are less costly to employ.
      • Shift work in this field is common. More opportunities will be available to those who speak French, as there are more vacancies in the province's francophone communities. As part of their annual licensing requirements, pharmacists must take a certain amount of continuing education in order keep up to date on industry and product information.
      • In order to work in New Brunswick, a pharmacist must register with the New Brunswick College of Pharmacists. Candidates must undergo a criminal record check.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Moncton - Richibucto region:

      • Approximately 280 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 78%
        • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 14%

    • Saint John–St. Stephen Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Saint John - St. Stephen region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • As the population continues to age, the growing need for prescription drugs and health services will support the demand for this occupation. An increase in the number of pharmacies at retail chains, combined with added services to improve access to care, may add to employment opportunities.
      • Furthermore, resource pressures across the health delivery network have resulted in an expanded role for pharmacists in service delivery, enabling them to provide a broader range of services. Pharmacists may prescribe medicines; give COVID, flu shots, and other vaccines; assess, treat and prescribe for certain minor ailments and review medications and provide health checks. On the other hand, with the advent of the regulated Pharmacy Technician, it is possible that some employers may choose to reduce pharmacist hours in favor of the latter, as these professionals are less costly to employ.
      • Shift work in this field is common. More opportunities will be available to those who speak French, as there are more vacancies in the province's francophone communities. As part of their annual licensing requirements, pharmacists must take a certain amount of continuing education in order keep up to date on industry and product information.
      • In order to work in New Brunswick, a pharmacist must register with the New Brunswick College of Pharmacists. Candidates must undergo a criminal record check.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Saint John - St. Stephen region:

      • Approximately 220 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 77%
        • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 23%

  • QuebecModerate

    The employment outlook will be moderate for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in Quebec for the 2024-2026 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
    • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

    Employment in this occupation depends mainly on the full scope of practice, the volume of prescription drugs and the development of new drugs.

    Extending powers to members of this profession who work in pharmacies and have been authorized to take on new activities to make health care more accessible for the public is expected to create an additional need for pharmacists. These new activities include primary care for common illnesses, such as dermatitis, seasonal allergies and minor infections.

    The growing and aging population is creating a greater need for drug management, investments in research to develop new drugs and in health care that should increase the demand for this occupation.            

    According to the Ordre des pharmaciens du Québec, there is a significant shortage of workers in the occupation in local pharmacies to meet the needs of the population. Opening hours (evenings and weekends) sometimes have to be reduced due to the difficulty in hiring new recruits for positions requiring such availability. Many hospital positions are also difficult to fill.   

    Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in Quebec:

    • Approximately 10,850 people work in this occupation.
    • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Other retail stores (NAICS 44-45, except 445): 78%
      • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 16%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 85% compared to 82% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 15% compared to 18% for all occupations
    • 78% of pharmacists work all year, while 22% work only part of the year, compared to 62% and 38% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 47 weeks compared to 43 weeks for all occupations.
    • 23% of pharmacists are self-employed compared to an average of 12% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 32% compared to 52% for all occupations
      • Women: 68% compared to 48% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: less than 5% compared to 12% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: less than 5% compared to 19% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: less than 5% compared to 19% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: less than 5% compared to 22% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 49% compared to 17% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 48% compared to 11% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Abitibi-Témiscamingue Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Abitibi - Témiscamingue region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends mainly on the full scope of practice, the volume of prescription drugs and the development of new drugs.

      Extending powers to members of this profession who work in pharmacies and have been authorized to take on new activities to make health care more accessible for the public is expected to create an additional need for pharmacists. These new activities include primary care for common illnesses, such as dermatitis, seasonal allergies and minor infections.

      The growing and aging population is creating a greater need for drug management, investments in research to develop new drugs and in health care that should increase the demand for this occupation.            

      According to the Ordre des pharmaciens du Québec, there is a significant shortage of workers in the occupation in local pharmacies to meet the needs of the population. Opening hours (evenings and weekends) sometimes have to be reduced due to the difficulty in hiring new recruits for positions requiring such availability. Many hospital positions are also difficult to fill.



      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Abitibi - Témiscamingue region:

      • Approximately 110 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): more than 95%

    • Bas-Saint-Laurent Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Bas-Saint-Laurent region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends mainly on the full scope of practice, the volume of prescription drugs and the development of new drugs.

      Extending powers to members of this profession who work in pharmacies and have been authorized to take on new activities to make health care more accessible for the public is expected to create an additional need for pharmacists. These new activities include primary care for common illnesses, such as dermatitis, seasonal allergies and minor infections.

      The growing and aging population is creating a greater need for drug management, investments in research to develop new drugs and in health care that should increase the demand for this occupation.            

      According to the Ordre des pharmaciens du Québec, there is a significant shortage of workers in the occupation in local pharmacies to meet the needs of the population. Opening hours (evenings and weekends) sometimes have to be reduced due to the difficulty in hiring new recruits for positions requiring such availability. Many hospital positions are also difficult to fill. 


      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Bas-Saint-Laurent region:

      • Approximately 190 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 81%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 19%

    • Capitale-Nationale Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Capitale-Nationale region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends mainly on the full scope of practice, the volume of prescription drugs and the development of new drugs.

      Extending powers to members of this profession who work in pharmacies and have been authorized to take on new activities to make health care more accessible for the public is expected to create an additional need for pharmacists. These new activities include primary care for common illnesses, such as dermatitis, seasonal allergies and minor infections.

      The growing and aging population is creating a greater need for drug management, investments in research to develop new drugs and in health care that should increase the demand for this occupation.            

      According to the Ordre des pharmaciens du Québec, there is a significant shortage of workers in the occupation in local pharmacies to meet the needs of the population. Opening hours (evenings and weekends) sometimes have to be reduced due to the difficulty in hiring new recruits for positions requiring such availability. Many hospital positions are also difficult to fill. 


      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Capitale-Nationale region:

      • Approximately 1,550 people work in this occupation.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 69%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 28%

    • Centre-du-Québec Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be moderate for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Centre-du-Québec region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends mainly on the full scope of practice, the volume of prescription drugs and the development of new drugs.

      Extending powers to members of this profession who work in pharmacies and have been authorized to take on new activities to make health care more accessible for the public is expected to create an additional need for pharmacists. These new activities include primary care for common illnesses, such as dermatitis, seasonal allergies and minor infections.

      The growing and aging population is creating a greater need for drug management, investments in research to develop new drugs and in health care that should increase the demand for this occupation.            

      According to the Ordre des pharmaciens du Québec, there is a significant shortage of workers in the occupation in local pharmacies to meet the needs of the population. Opening hours (evenings and weekends) sometimes have to be reduced due to the difficulty in hiring new recruits for positions requiring such availability. Many hospital positions are also difficult to fill.



      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Centre-du-Québec region:

      • Approximately 200 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 84%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 16%

    • Chaudière-Appalaches Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be moderate for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Chaudière - Appalaches region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends mainly on the full scope of practice, the volume of prescription drugs and the development of new drugs.

      Extending powers to members of this profession who work in pharmacies and have been authorized to take on new activities to make health care more accessible for the public is expected to create an additional need for pharmacists. These new activities include primary care for common illnesses, such as dermatitis, seasonal allergies and minor infections.

      The growing and aging population is creating a greater need for drug management, investments in research to develop new drugs and in health care that should increase the demand for this occupation.            

      According to the Ordre des pharmaciens du Québec, there is a significant shortage of workers in the occupation in local pharmacies to meet the needs of the population. Opening hours (evenings and weekends) sometimes have to be reduced due to the difficulty in hiring new recruits for positions requiring such availability. Many hospital positions are also difficult to fill. 


      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Chaudière - Appalaches region:

      • Approximately 540 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 83%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 14%

    • Côte-Nord Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Côte-Nord and Nord-du-Québec regions for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends mainly on the full scope of practice, the volume of prescription drugs and the development of new drugs.

      Extending powers to members of this profession who work in pharmacies and have been authorized to take on new activities to make health care more accessible for the public is expected to create an additional need for pharmacists. These new activities include primary care for common illnesses, such as dermatitis, seasonal allergies and minor infections.

      The growing and aging population is creating a greater need for drug management, investments in research to develop new drugs and in health care that should increase the demand for this occupation.            

      According to the Ordre des pharmaciens du Québec, there is a significant shortage of workers in the occupation in local pharmacies to meet the needs of the population. Opening hours (evenings and weekends) sometimes have to be reduced due to the difficulty in hiring new recruits for positions requiring such availability. Many hospital positions are also difficult to fill.



      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Côte-Nord and Nord-du-Québec regions:

      • Approximately 90 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 74%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 25%

    • Estrie Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be moderate for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Estrie region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends mainly on the full scope of practice, the volume of prescription drugs and the development of new drugs.

      Extending powers to members of this profession who work in pharmacies and have been authorized to take on new activities to make health care more accessible for the public is expected to create an additional need for pharmacists. These new activities include primary care for common illnesses, such as dermatitis, seasonal allergies and minor infections.

      The growing and aging population is creating a greater need for drug management, investments in research to develop new drugs and in health care that should increase the demand for this occupation.            

      According to the Ordre des pharmaciens du Québec, there is a significant shortage of workers in the occupation in local pharmacies to meet the needs of the population. Opening hours (evenings and weekends) sometimes have to be reduced due to the difficulty in hiring new recruits for positions requiring such availability. Many hospital positions are also difficult to fill.



      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Estrie region:

      • Approximately 320 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 79%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 21%

    • Gaspésie–Îles-de-la-Madeleine Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Gaspésie - Îles-de-la-Madeleine region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends mainly on the full scope of practice, the volume of prescription drugs and the development of new drugs.

      Extending powers to members of this profession who work in pharmacies and have been authorized to take on new activities to make health care more accessible for the public is expected to create an additional need for pharmacists. These new activities include primary care for common illnesses, such as dermatitis, seasonal allergies and minor infections.

      The growing and aging population is creating a greater need for drug management, investments in research to develop new drugs and in health care that should increase the demand for this occupation.           

      According to the Ordre des pharmaciens du Québec, there is a significant shortage of workers in the occupation in local pharmacies to meet the needs of the population. Opening hours (evenings and weekends) sometimes have to be reduced due to the difficulty in hiring new recruits for positions requiring such availability. Many hospital positions are also difficult to fill. 


      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Gaspésie - Îles-de-la-Madeleine region:

      • Approximately 110 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 65%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 35%

    • Lanaudière Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Lanaudière region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends mainly on the full scope of practice, the volume of prescription drugs and the development of new drugs.

      Extending powers to members of this profession who work in pharmacies and have been authorized to take on new activities to make health care more accessible for the public is expected to create an additional need for pharmacists. These new activities include primary care for common illnesses, such as dermatitis, seasonal allergies and minor infections.

      The growing and aging population is creating a greater need for drug management, investments in research to develop new drugs and in health care that should increase the demand for this occupation.            

      According to the Ordre des pharmaciens du Québec, there is a significant shortage of workers in the occupation in local pharmacies to meet the needs of the population. Opening hours (evenings and weekends) sometimes have to be reduced due to the difficulty in hiring new recruits for positions requiring such availability. Many hospital positions are also difficult to fill.



      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Lanaudière region:

      • Approximately 480 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 87%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 13%

    • Laurentides Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be moderate for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Laurentides region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends mainly on the full scope of practice, the volume of prescription drugs and the development of new drugs.

      Extending powers to members of this profession who work in pharmacies and have been authorized to take on new activities to make health care more accessible for the public is expected to create an additional need for pharmacists. These new activities include primary care for common illnesses, such as dermatitis, seasonal allergies and minor infections.

      The growing and aging population is creating a greater need for drug management, investments in research to develop new drugs and in health care that should increase the demand for this occupation.            

      According to the Ordre des pharmaciens du Québec, there is a significant shortage of workers in the occupation in local pharmacies to meet the needs of the population. Opening hours (evenings and weekends) sometimes have to be reduced due to the difficulty in hiring new recruits for positions requiring such availability. Many hospital positions are also difficult to fill.



      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Laurentides region:

      • Approximately 500 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 92%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 8%

    • Laval Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the census metropolitan area of Montréal, including the Laval region, for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends mainly on the full scope of practice, the volume of prescription drugs and the development of new drugs.

      Extending powers to members of this profession who work in pharmacies and have been authorized to take on new activities to make health care more accessible for the public is expected to create an additional need for pharmacists. These new activities include primary care for common illnesses, such as dermatitis, seasonal allergies and minor infections.

      The growing and aging population is creating a greater need for drug management, investments in research to develop new drugs and in health care that should increase the demand for this occupation.            

      According to the Ordre des pharmaciens du Québec, there is a significant shortage of workers in the occupation in local pharmacies to meet the needs of the population. Opening hours (evenings and weekends) sometimes have to be reduced due to the difficulty in hiring new recruits for positions requiring such availability. Many hospital positions are also difficult to fill.



      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the census metropolitan area of Montréal, including the Laval region:

      • Approximately 5,080 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.

    • Mauricie Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be moderate for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Mauricie region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends mainly on the full scope of practice, the volume of prescription drugs and the development of new drugs.

      Extending powers to members of this profession who work in pharmacies and have been authorized to take on new activities to make health care more accessible for the public is expected to create an additional need for pharmacists. These new activities include primary care for common illnesses, such as dermatitis, seasonal allergies and minor infections.

      The growing and aging population is creating a greater need for drug management, investments in research to develop new drugs and in health care that should increase the demand for this occupation.            

      According to the Ordre des pharmaciens du Québec, there is a significant shortage of workers in the occupation in local pharmacies to meet the needs of the population. Opening hours (evenings and weekends) sometimes have to be reduced due to the difficulty in hiring new recruits for positions requiring such availability. Many hospital positions are also difficult to fill.



      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Mauricie region:

      • Approximately 320 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 86%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 14%

    • Montréal Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the census metropolitan area of Montréal for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends mainly on the full scope of practice, the volume of prescription drugs and the development of new drugs.

      Extending powers to members of this profession who work in pharmacies and have been authorized to take on new activities to make health care more accessible for the public is expected to create an additional need for pharmacists. These new activities include primary care for common illnesses, such as dermatitis, seasonal allergies and minor infections.

      The growing and aging population is creating a greater need for drug management, investments in research to develop new drugs and in health care that should increase the demand for this occupation.            

      According to the Ordre des pharmaciens du Québec, there is a significant shortage of workers in the occupation in local pharmacies to meet the needs of the population. Opening hours (evenings and weekends) sometimes have to be reduced due to the difficulty in hiring new recruits for positions requiring such availability. Many hospital positions are also difficult to fill.



      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the census metropolitan area of Montréal:

      • Approximately 5,080 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.

    • Montérégie Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be moderate for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Montérégie region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends mainly on the full scope of practice, the volume of prescription drugs and the development of new drugs.

      Extending powers to members of this profession who work in pharmacies and have been authorized to take on new activities to make health care more accessible for the public is expected to create an additional need for pharmacists. These new activities include primary care for common illnesses, such as dermatitis, seasonal allergies and minor infections.

      The growing and aging population is creating a greater need for drug management, investments in research to develop new drugs and in health care that should increase the demand for this occupation.            

      According to the Ordre des pharmaciens du Québec, there is a significant shortage of workers in the occupation in local pharmacies to meet the needs of the population. Opening hours (evenings and weekends) sometimes have to be reduced due to the difficulty in hiring new recruits for positions requiring such availability. Many hospital positions are also difficult to fill.



      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Montérégie region:

      • Approximately 1,650 people work in this occupation.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 79%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 15%

    • Nord-du-Québec Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Côte-Nord and Nord-du-Québec regions for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends mainly on the full scope of practice, the volume of prescription drugs and the development of new drugs.

      Extending powers to members of this profession who work in pharmacies and have been authorized to take on new activities to make health care more accessible for the public is expected to create an additional need for pharmacists. These new activities include primary care for common illnesses, such as dermatitis, seasonal allergies and minor infections.

      The growing and aging population is creating a greater need for drug management, investments in research to develop new drugs and in health care that should increase the demand for this occupation.            

      According to the Ordre des pharmaciens du Québec, there is a significant shortage of workers in the occupation in local pharmacies to meet the needs of the population. Opening hours (evenings and weekends) sometimes have to be reduced due to the difficulty in hiring new recruits for positions requiring such availability. Many hospital positions are also difficult to fill.



      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Côte-Nord and Nord-du-Québec regions:

      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 74%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 25%

    • Outaouais Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be moderate for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Outaouais region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends mainly on the full scope of practice, the volume of prescription drugs and the development of new drugs.

      Extending powers to members of this profession who work in pharmacies and have been authorized to take on new activities to make health care more accessible for the public is expected to create an additional need for pharmacists. These new activities include primary care for common illnesses, such as dermatitis, seasonal allergies and minor infections.

      The growing and aging population is creating a greater need for drug management, investments in research to develop new drugs and in health care that should increase the demand for this occupation.            

      According to the Ordre des pharmaciens du Québec, there is a significant shortage of workers in the occupation in local pharmacies to meet the needs of the population. Opening hours (evenings and weekends) sometimes have to be reduced due to the difficulty in hiring new recruits for positions requiring such availability. Many hospital positions are also difficult to fill.



      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Outaouais region:

      • Approximately 300 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 84%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 16%

    • Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be moderate for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Saguenay - Lac-Saint-Jean region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends mainly on the full scope of practice, the volume of prescription drugs and the development of new drugs.

      Extending powers to members of this profession who work in pharmacies and have been authorized to take on new activities to make health care more accessible for the public is expected to create an additional need for pharmacists. These new activities include primary care for common illnesses, such as dermatitis, seasonal allergies and minor infections.

      The growing and aging population is creating a greater need for drug management, investments in research to develop new drugs and in health care that should increase the demand for this occupation.            

      According to the Ordre des pharmaciens du Québec, there is a significant shortage of workers in the occupation in local pharmacies to meet the needs of the population. Opening hours (evenings and weekends) sometimes have to be reduced due to the difficulty in hiring new recruits for positions requiring such availability. Many hospital positions are also difficult to fill.



      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Saguenay - Lac-Saint-Jean region:

      • Approximately 370 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 87%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 13%

  • OntarioGood

    The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in Ontario for the 2024-2026 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
    • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

    What Types of Employers Are Out There?

    • Pharmacies and drug stores
    • Hospitals


    What are the Main Trends Affecting Employment?

    • Greater need for medication management and overall health care services to support the growing and aging population in Ontario
    • Investments in health care facilities and hospitals


    What Skills Do I Need to Succeed?

    • Registration with the Ontario College of Pharmacists is required to practise


    What Other Information Will I Find Helpful?

    • Ability to work evenings and weekends to meet client needs may be required
    • Generally, Bridging Programs are available to assist internationally trained professionals in various fields enter the labour market more quickly in the province.

    Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in Ontario:

    • Approximately 16,200 people work in this occupation.
    • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Other retail stores (NAICS 44-45, except 445): 77%
      • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 15%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 84% compared to 81% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 16% compared to 19% for all occupations
    • 76% of pharmacists work all year, while 24% work only part of the year, compared to 63% and 37% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 46 weeks compared to 43 weeks for all occupations.
    • 23% of pharmacists are self-employed compared to an average of 15% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 41% compared to 52% for all occupations
      • Women: 59% compared to 48% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: less than 5% compared to 9% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: less than 5% compared to 25% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: less than 5% compared to 8% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: less than 5% compared to 22% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 55% compared to 24% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 42% compared to 13% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Hamilton–Niagara Peninsula Region Very good

      The employment outlook will be very good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Hamilton - Niagara Peninsula region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Several positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Hamilton - Niagara Peninsula region:

      • Approximately 1,240 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 80%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 16%

    • Kingston–Pembroke Region Very good

      The employment outlook will be very good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Kingston - Pembroke region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Kingston - Pembroke region:

      • Approximately 380 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 86%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 14%

    • Kitchener–Waterloo–Barrie Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Kitchener - Waterloo - Barrie region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Kitchener - Waterloo - Barrie region:

      • Approximately 1,150 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 82%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 14%

    • London Region Very good

      The employment outlook will be very good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the London region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Several positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the London region:

      • Approximately 510 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 82%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 18%

    • Muskoka–Kawarthas Region Very good

      The employment outlook will be very good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Muskoka - Kawarthas region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Muskoka - Kawarthas region:

      • Approximately 230 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 90%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 10%

    • Northeast Region Very good

      The employment outlook will be very good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Northeast region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Northeast region:

      • Approximately 530 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 89%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 9%

    • Northwest Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Northwest region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Northwest region:

      • Approximately 210 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 85%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 15%

    • Ottawa Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Ottawa region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Ottawa region:

      • Approximately 1,400 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 81%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 12%
        • Federal government public administration (NAICS 911): 5%

    • Stratford–Bruce Peninsula Region Very good

      The employment outlook will be very good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Stratford - Bruce Peninsula region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Stratford - Bruce Peninsula region:

      • Approximately 140 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 85%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 15%

    • Toronto Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Toronto region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Toronto region:

      • Approximately 9,760 people work in this occupation.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 76%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 16%

    • Windsor-Sarnia Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Windsor - Sarnia region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Windsor - Sarnia region:

      • Approximately 770 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 84%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 16%

  • ManitobaGood

    The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in Manitoba for the 2024-2026 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
    • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
    • The Government of Manitoba is implementing a $400 million Health Care Human Resource Action Plan. The strategy, initially announced in 2022, aims to hire 2,000 health care workers. The plan supports the retention, training, and recruitment of health care physicians, nurses, and allied health staff.  
    • Greater need for medication management and overall health care services to support the growing and aging population in Manitoba.


    Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in Manitoba:

    • Approximately 1,850 people work in this occupation.
    • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Other retail stores (NAICS 44-45, except 445): 74%
      • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 21%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 80% compared to 81% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 20% compared to 19% for all occupations
    • 76% of pharmacists work all year, while 24% work only part of the year, compared to 65% and 35% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 47 weeks compared to 43 weeks for all occupations.
    • 13% of pharmacists are self-employed compared to an average of 12% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 45% compared to 53% for all occupations
      • Women: 55% compared to 47% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: n/a
      • high school diploma or equivalent: less than 5% compared to 31% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: n/a
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: less than 5% compared to 17% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 77% compared to 20% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 22% compared to 8% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Interlake Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Interlake region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Several positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Interlake region:

      • Approximately 100 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 60%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 40%

    • North Central Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the North Central region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the North Central region:

      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 59%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 41%

    • North Region Undetermined

      An employment outlook has not been assigned to this occupation in this region due to low levels of employment.

    • South Central Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the South Central region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the South Central region:

      • Approximately 110 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 59%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 41%

    • Southwest Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Southwest region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Southwest region:

      • Approximately 140 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 84%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 16%

    • Winnipeg Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Winnipeg region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Winnipeg region:

      • Approximately 1,330 people work in this occupation.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 79%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 19%

  • SaskatchewanVery good

    The employment outlook will be very good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in Saskatchewan for the 2024-2026 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
    • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
    • Greater need for medication management and overall healthcare services to support the growing and aging population in Saskatchewan. 
    • There is high demand for this occupation as the provincial government ramps up initiatives to address persisting labour shortages across the health care sector.
    • Recent expansion in training and scope of practice for pharmacists by the provincial government to include more health conditions such as strep throat and ear infections, and later in 2025, chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes, and heart failure, widens the job functions for practitioners in this occupation.


    Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in Saskatchewan:

    • Approximately 1,850 people work in this occupation.
    • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Other retail stores (NAICS 44-45, except 445): 73%
      • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 23%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 85% compared to 81% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 15% compared to 19% for all occupations
    • 81% of pharmacists work all year, while 19% work only part of the year, compared to 65% and 35% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 47 weeks compared to 43 weeks for all occupations.
    • 14% of pharmacists are self-employed compared to an average of 16% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 31% compared to 53% for all occupations
      • Women: 69% compared to 47% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: n/a
      • high school diploma or equivalent: less than 5% compared to 33% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: n/a
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: less than 5% compared to 17% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 86% compared to 18% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 13% compared to 7% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Northern Region Very good

      The employment outlook will be very good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Northern region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Several positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Northern region:

      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 87%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 12%

    • Prince Albert Region Very good

      The employment outlook will be very good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Prince Albert region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Several positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Prince Albert region:

      • Approximately 300 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 87%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 12%

    • Regina–Moose Mountain Region Very good

      The employment outlook will be very good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Regina - Moose Mountain region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Regina - Moose Mountain region:

      • Approximately 420 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 77%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 22%

    • Saskatoon–Biggar Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Saskatoon - Biggar region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Saskatoon - Biggar region:

      • Approximately 890 people work in this occupation.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 66%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 30%

    • Swift Current–Moose Jaw Region Very good

      The employment outlook will be very good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Swift Current - Moose Jaw region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Swift Current - Moose Jaw region:

      • Approximately 70 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 75%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 25%

    • Yorkton–Melville Region Very good

      The employment outlook will be very good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Yorkton - Melville region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Yorkton - Melville region:

      • Approximately 80 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 84%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 16%

  • AlbertaVery good

    The employment outlook will be very good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in Alberta for the 2024-2026 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
    • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

    Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in Alberta:

    • Approximately 5,350 people work in this occupation.
    • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Other retail stores (NAICS 44-45, except 445): 74%
      • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 20%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 82% compared to 80% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 18% compared to 20% for all occupations
    • 75% of pharmacists work all year, while 25% work only part of the year, compared to 61% and 39% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 46 weeks compared to 42 weeks for all occupations.
    • 16% of pharmacists are self-employed compared to an average of 15% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 39% compared to 53% for all occupations
      • Women: 61% compared to 47% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: n/a
      • high school diploma or equivalent: less than 5% compared to 28% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: n/a
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: less than 5% compared to 19% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 72% compared to 21% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 25% compared to 9% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Athabasca–Grande Prairie–Peace River Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Athabasca - Grande Prairie - Peace River region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
      • Several positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Athabasca - Grande Prairie - Peace River region:

      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 83%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 15%

    • Banff–Jasper–Rocky Mountain House Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Banff - Jasper - Rocky Mountain House region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
      • Several positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Banff - Jasper - Rocky Mountain House region:

      • Approximately 300 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 83%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 15%

    • Calgary Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Calgary region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Calgary region:

      • Approximately 1,980 people work in this occupation.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 75%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 21%

    • Camrose–Drumheller Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Camrose - Drumheller region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Camrose - Drumheller region:

      • Approximately 200 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 77%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 18%
        • Local, municipal, regional, aboriginal and other public administration (NAICS 913-919): 5%

    • Edmonton Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Edmonton region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Edmonton region:

      • Approximately 2,230 people work in this occupation.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 76%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 21%

    • Lethbridge–Medicine Hat Region Very good

      The employment outlook will be very good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Lethbridge - Medicine Hat region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Lethbridge - Medicine Hat region:

      • Approximately 360 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 83%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 12%

    • Red Deer Region Very good

      The employment outlook will be very good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Red Deer region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Several positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Red Deer region:

      • Approximately 240 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 73%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 27%

    • Wood Buffalo–Cold Lake Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Wood Buffalo - Cold Lake region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Several positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Wood Buffalo - Cold Lake region:

      • Approximately 120 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 74%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 26%

  • British ColumbiaGood

    The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in British Columbia for the 2024-2026 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
    • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

    Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in British Columbia:

    • Approximately 7,400 people work in this occupation.
    • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Other retail stores (NAICS 44-45, except 445): 74%
      • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 22%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 82% compared to 78% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 18% compared to 22% for all occupations
    • 76% of pharmacists work all year, while 24% work only part of the year, compared to 61% and 39% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 46 weeks compared to 42 weeks for all occupations.
    • 14% of pharmacists are self-employed compared to an average of 17% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 42% compared to 52% for all occupations
      • Women: 57% compared to 48% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: n/a
      • high school diploma or equivalent: less than 5% compared to 28% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: n/a
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: less than 5% compared to 17% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 65% compared to 22% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 33% compared to 12% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Cariboo Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Cariboo region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Cariboo region:

      • Approximately 150 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 81%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 19%

    • Kootenay Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Kootenay region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Several positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Kootenay region:

      • Approximately 180 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 86%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 14%

    • Lower Mainland–Southwest Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Lower Mainland - Southwest region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Lower Mainland - Southwest region:

      • Approximately 4,840 people work in this occupation.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 73%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 23%

    • Nechako Region Undetermined

      An employment outlook has not been assigned to this occupation in this region due to low levels of employment.

    • Thompson–Okanagan Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Thompson - Okanagan region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Thompson - Okanagan region:

      • Approximately 640 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 85%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 13%

    • Vancouver Island and Coast Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Vancouver Island and Coast region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Several positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.

      Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Vancouver Island and Coast region:

      • Approximately 1,070 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 81%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 15%

  • Yukon TerritoryUndetermined

    An employment outlook has not been assigned to this occupation in this region due to low levels of employment.

  • Northwest TerritoriesUndetermined

    An employment outlook has not been assigned to this occupation in this region due to low levels of employment.

  • NunavutUndetermined

    An employment outlook has not been assigned to this occupation in this region due to low levels of employment.

Related links

Canadian Occupational Projection System (COPS) - Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC)

Labour Market Information Survey
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