John PerryPicking a local drugstore should not feel like a chore, but we have all dealt with long lines, unclear insurance talk, or a rushed counter experience.
Whether you’re a parent looking for toddler cough syrup or a senior managing daily medications, finding the best pharmacies in Philadelphia matters for your peace of mind.
We want places that actually care about neighbors and do not treat you like a number.
So, our team looked at local spots that offer more than pills. We focused on convenience, fair pricing, clear support, and that friendly community feel.
How much does pharmacy service cost in Philadelphia?
Pharmacy costs in the city shift quite a bit depending on what you need and your insurance, though generic medications often sit between $4 and $10.
| Cost Category | Estimated Price Range |
| Generic Medications | $4 – $10 or less |
| Independent Pharmacy Pricing | Often lower than large chains |
| Insurance Copays | Varies by provider and plan |
1. Philadelphia Pharmacy
Website: http://philarx.com/
Address: 101 East Lehigh Avenue
Contact: (215) 425-2800
Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM; Saturday, 9:30 AM – 3:00 PM
Walking into Philadelphia Pharmacy feels different because they’ve ditched the glass barriers, which makes talking to the staff feel more personal.
It’s a relief to actually see the person helping you, especially when you have questions about a new medication or insurance issue.
On top of the welcoming setup, they have a 99-cent store inside, so you can grab snacks or home basics while you wait.
They’re also a strong choice for the Spanish-speaking community since they offer a dedicated portal and bilingual support.
One thing to keep in mind is that they don’t have a drive-thru, so you will need to park and head inside.
Their hours are also tighter than some chain pharmacies since they close by 6:00 PM and stay closed on Sundays.
Customer Reviews
My family’s pharmacy for over 10 years
This have been my Family’s pharmacy for over 10 years. Nice staff, clean and great service overall. To be exact, I’m the 3rd generation as customers in my Family. My Grandfather was before he passed away, my Mother and I are very pleased customers.
- Lizmarie Oquendo | Google Review
Their services are excellent
I’ve been going there since I was a kid and their services are excellent if they don’t have the medication available at the time they will call and order it and they will try their best to make it available to you the next day and when they say 15 minutes wait time for your prescriptions that’s exactly what they mean or less most likely your way in less time done and the other pharmacy their customer service is excellent as well they’re fluent in English and in Spanish
- Erica Torres (Jamilla) | Google Review
2. Nova Star Pharmacy
Website: http://novastarpharmacy.com/
Address: 301 E Girard Ave
Contact: (215) 739-3900
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM; Saturday, 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Sunday, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
If you want your pharmacy trip to feel more like a visit to a high-end shop, Nova Star Pharmacy in Fishtown is a pretty cool spot.
They have created a Neighborhood Self-Care Boutique vibe where you can find skincare and grooming brands like Jack Black or Dr. Hauschka alongside your prescriptions.
They also offer free local delivery, which is perfect if you are stuck at home or do not want to deal with Girard Avenue traffic.
However, since they only have one location, it may be a trek if you are not in Fishtown. They also close at 3:00 PM on Sundays, so they are not the best pick for late-afternoon weekend emergencies.
Customer Reviews
Best pharmacy in Philly
This is the best pharmacy in Philly. Extremely efficient and knowledgeable service, greeted when you walk in the door, amazing high quality selection of products, excellent prices. It’s small businesses like this that bolster my faith in the local economy.
- Patrick Farrell | Google Review
My favorite pharmacy in Philly
My favorite pharmacy in Philly! The owners and staff are so knowledgeable and friendly. Service is always awesome and turnaround is quick. They are caring people and take time to chat with you and inform you of potential side effects and details of your medication. Highly recommend!
- Jen Chi Geo | Google Review
3. Medical Tower Pharmacy
Website: http://www.medicaltowerpharmacy.com/
Address: 255 S 17th St
Contact: (215) 999-8137 | (215) 545-3525
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM; Saturday, 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Medical Tower Pharmacy has been a staple in Center City since 1972, and that long history shows in how they treat their neighbors.
They offer medication synchronization, which means they can line up your prescriptions to be ready on the same day every month.
This is a real time-saver for seniors or anyone managing multiple health needs, perhaps even those seeing local orthopedic specialists.
They also have an app for round-the-clock refills and curbside pickup, which helps when downtown parking is a headache.
The catch is that free delivery is limited to the Rittenhouse and Center City zones. If you live farther out, you will need to make the trip in, and Saturday hours end early at 2:00 PM.
Customer Reviews
Why local neighborhood businesses are so important
The best pharmacy I’ve ever used and the perfect example of why local neighborhood businesses are so important and vital to community. So sad they aren’t accepting my insurance anymore but would recommend anyone whose insurance is accepted use them. Have never once had a bad experience.
- Grace Boyle | Google Review
Less expensive with Medical Tower
Just changed to Medical Tower Pharmacy from a big chain pharmacy around the corner. With my new Medicare part D plan, it is actually less expensive with Medical Tower than it is with the mega-chain place. Extremely friendly service, with very well stocked retail shelves with nothing locked up. Wholeheartedly recommend.
- P A B | Google Review
4. Parkway Pharmacy
Website: http://www.rxparkway.com/
Address: 2401 Pennsylvania Ave Suite 1D7
Contact: (215) 642-2422
Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM; Saturday, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
When we looked into their prices, we were impressed by Parkway Pharmacy’s cost-plus model for generic medications. It’s a transparent way to pay that often beats big chain prices or even popular discount coupons.
They also handle point-of-care testing at the counter, so you can get checked for things like flu or strep without sitting in an urgent care lobby.
They will even deliver medications for free, which is a huge help if you do not feel well enough to leave the house.
However, the location inside The Philadelphian building near the Art Museum can feel tucked away if you are not familiar with the area.
Their weekend availability is also limited since they are only open for four hours on Saturday and closed on Sunday.
Customer Reviews
Best pharmacy in Philly
Best pharmacy in Philly. The staff are great and it’s easy to get a hold of someone. The store part also has a wide selection and all the prices I noticed were better than chain stores.
- Jordan Z Groff | Google Review
Best decision for our family
Switching to Parkway Pharmacy has been the best decision for our family. Every interaction is proactive, professional, kind, and efficient. Phone calls are answered immediately and are handled with care and attention, unlike their neighbor where your wait time is hours, if they even ever answer. We are lucky to have Parkway in our neighborhood and I can’t recommend them enough!
- Laura Hiddemen | Google Review
5. eScript360 Pharmacy
Website: http://www.escript360.com/
Address: 601 S 10th Street
Contact: (267) 635-4576
Hours: Monday-Thursday, 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM; Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Saturday, 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
If you’re worried about the high cost of medications, eScript360 has a $24 or Less program that covers a wide range of Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved medications.
The best part is that there’s no annoying red tape or membership fee, which makes it useful for people without insurance or those dealing with high copays.
Managing health can be stressful, and they aim to make it easier, much like the support you would get from local psychotherapists.
They also offer free hand delivery within 24 hours, so you don’t have to wait long for what you need.
Just keep in mind that if you have a very rare condition, they may not have highly specialized medications in stock.
They are also closed on Sundays, so you need to plan refills ahead to avoid weekend gaps.
Customer Reviews
Wonderful experience from the pharmacist
Wonderful experience from the pharmacist, to the updates & most definitely the driver.. I was happy to see the review about tipping, had to look for it but happy I found!! Tips are very important & go a long way🙌 I’m definitely looking into getting all of my meds here!! …
- Crystal Martin | Google Review
Very good communication about the status of my delivery
Very good communication about the status of my delivery, and even called me to make sure I was home or where a good spot to leave my delivery was if I was away. Great and quick service!
- kyle m | Google Review
