Optometrist vs Pharmacist salary
In Canada, a pharmacist earns about 4% more than a optometrist — $179,313 vs $172,253 per year.
Showing amounts in USD (USD default; source data is CAD). FX as of Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:02:31 +0000. Convert currencies
Pays more
Healthcare
Pharmacist$179,313/yr
- Monthly
- $14,966
- Hourly
- $86
- Range
- $139,003–$228,659
- 10-yr outlook
- +3%
Pay range, side by side
| Percentile | Optometrist | Pharmacist |
|---|---|---|
| Entry (10th) | $125,731 | $139,003 |
| 25th | $149,027 | $159,122 |
| Median | $172,253 | $179,313 |
| 75th | $200,703 | $203,951 |
| Senior (90th) | $229,083 | $228,659 |
National Canada figures in CAD. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.
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Frequently asked questions
- Does a optometrist or pharmacist earn more in Canada?
- A pharmacist earns more, at about $254,000 per year vs $244,000 for a optometrist — roughly 4% ($10,000) more.
- What is the salary range for these roles in Canada?
- A optometrist typically earns $178,100–$324,500, while a pharmacist earns $196,900–$323,900 per year.
- How much do these jobs pay per month in Canada?
- On a monthly basis before tax, a optometrist averages about $20,300 and a pharmacist about $21,200.
- How do entry-level salaries compare?
- At the 10th percentile in Canada, a optometrist earns about $178,100 while a pharmacist earns about $196,900 per year.
- How do senior-level salaries compare?
- At the 90th percentile in Canada, a optometrist earns about $324,500 while a pharmacist earns about $323,900 per year.
- Are optometrist and pharmacist similar careers?
- Both roles sit in the Healthcare category on Pay by Role, which is why we compare them head-to-head. Day-to-day work still differs — review each job page for skills and outlook.