Paramedic vs Pharmacist: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
Paramedic
Provide emergency medical care and transportation to critically ill patients.
Pharmacist
Dispense medications, counsel patients on drug therapies, and prevent errors.
Pharmacist earns more on average — the national median is $92,760/year (193%) higher than a Paramedic. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Paramedic vs Pharmacist — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Paramedic | Pharmacist | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $70,590 | $208,483 | Paramedic $137,893 |
| New York, NY | $58,936 | $168,405 | Paramedic $109,469 |
| Seattle, WA | $70,025 | $199,024 | Paramedic $128,999 |
| Austin, TX | $55,223 | $160,336 | Paramedic $105,113 |
| Chicago, IL | $51,127 | $155,619 | Paramedic $104,492 |
| Boston, MA | $63,402 | $179,962 | Paramedic $116,560 |
| London, UK | £37,374 | £111,126 | Paramedic $73,752 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$62,016 | CA$184,236 | Paramedic $122,220 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Paramedic or Pharmacist earn more?+
A Pharmacist earns more on average. The national median salary for a Paramedic is $48,150/year, compared to $140,910/year for a Pharmacist — a difference of $92,760 (193%).
Which has better career growth — Paramedic or Pharmacist?+
Paramedic roles are growing at 5% YoY while Pharmacist demand is growing at 4% YoY. Paramedic has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Paramedic to Pharmacist?+
Yes. Many professionals transition between these roles, especially since both are in the same category. Shared skills include: analytical thinking, communication, and industry knowledge.
Which is harder to automate — Paramedic or Pharmacist?+
Paramedic has a lower AI automation risk (8% vs 38%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.