How much does CVS pay per hour in California?

As of June 30, 2025, the average hourly wage for a CVS retail employee in California is approximately $22.57. This figure reflects a competitive pay scale within the retail pharmacy sector, where salaries can vary significantly based on experience, location, and specific job roles. According to data from ZipRecruiter, hourly wages for CVS retail positions can reach as high as $34.87 for more experienced or specialized roles, while entry-level positions may start at around $11.39 per hour. The majority of CVS retail salaries fall within a range of $17.07 to $26.35 per hour, with the 25th percentile earning about $17.07 and the 75th percentile earning up to $26.35. This distribution indicates that while many employees earn a wage close to the average, there is a notable variation based on factors such as tenure and job responsibilities. Overall, CVS offers a range of compensation that reflects the diverse roles and responsibilities within its retail operations in California.