Alpharetta vs Columbus: Pharmacist Salary (2026)
Compare pharmacist salaries between Alpharetta, GA and Columbus, GA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Alpharetta, GA | Columbus, GA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $137,478▲ | $135,220 |
| Hourly Rate | $66.10▲ | $65.01 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $96,212 | $108,836▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $124,810 | $126,595▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $155,925 | $156,584▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $165,158 | $176,614▲ |
| Total Employed | 13 | 300▲ |
Verdict
Alpharetta and Columbus are closely matched on overall pharmacist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Alpharetta and Columbus is $2,258 (1.67%). Alpharetta's median is -4.19% compared to the US national median of $143,489.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Alpharetta spans $68,946,Columbus spans $67,778. Alpharetta has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Columbus ($151,429 effective) pays 2.55% more than Alpharetta ($147,667 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Alpharetta if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($137,478/year)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Choose Columbus if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($176,614)
- ✓Larger job market (300 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $151,429)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, pharmacist salaries in Alpharetta grew 10.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -1.0% growth in Columbus over the same period.
Alpharetta, GA
$122,259 (2024) → $135,007 (2025)
Columbus, GA
$134,070 (2019) → $132,790 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Alpharetta, GA
Columbus, GA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays pharmacists more: Alpharetta or Columbus?
What is the hourly rate difference between Alpharetta and Columbus?
Should I relocate from Alpharetta to Columbus as a pharmacist?
What do entry-level pharmacists earn in Alpharetta vs Columbus?
Related Comparisons
Written by Sofia Chen, PharmD
Career Analyst
Sofia Chen has 10 years of experience in community pharmacy. She specializes in medication therapy management.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 1.83% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Sofia Chen, PharmD, a licensed pharmacist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov