Walgreens and CVS Are Closing Nearly 1,000 Stores in 2025: 4 Alternatives If Your Local Store Closes
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Sean Bryant
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Jenna Klaverweiden
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Is your local Walgreens or CVS closing? It’s no surprise that retailers across the United States have been closing their doors, especially pharmacies. What does this mean for you? Should you expect price increases? Is there a way to save money by switching to a new pharmacy?
Read on for more details about some of the impacts of pharmacy chain closures and some alternatives if your local store closes.
Walgreens and CVS: 1,000 Planned Closures
Walgreens announced back in October 2024 that it would be closing 1,200 stores across the U.S. in the following three years, NPR reported. For its fiscal 2025, it’s planning to close about 500, per USA Today.
CVS also adopted an aggressive store closure plan, with 244 stores closed between 2018 and 2020 and another 900 closures announced in 2021, per NPR. And as Fox reported, CVS is planning to close 270 more stores this year.
In addition to large retailers closing, many local pharmacies are shutting down. As other retailers open more pharmacies, it’s tough for local pharmacies to keep customers. The American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy has a great map that shows pharmacy closures in each state.
The Impact of Pharmacy Chain Closures
While major pharmacy chains are taking a proactive approach to preserving profitability, it could adversely impact consumers. For one, consumers may need to drive further to find a pharmacy to fill their prescriptions.
Additionally, the constriction of offerings could lead to higher prices. Walgreens and CVS serve all income groups, meaning they accept almost all insurances. This isn’t always the case with independent pharmacies. Lower reimbursement rates and higher prescription costs could become a reality for countless consumers.
Alternatives If Your Local Store Closes
If your local Walgreens or CVS is shutting down, you may be in the market for an alternative. Some alternatives to consider are Costco, Walmart, Amazon and Sam’s Club pharmacies.
When choosing an alternative, looking at the details before moving your prescriptions is important. For one, verify that the pharmacy accepts your insurance. You don’t want to leave the pharmacy empty-handed. In addition, look for a pharmacy that offers a rewards program. This may make up for the extra drive time.
Additionally, if driving farther for your prescription isn’t something you’re able to do, consider online offerings. Amazon Pharmacy and other private retailers can mail you prescriptions. This can save you a trip to the store and also save you money through cashback and rebate programs.
“For OTC and prescription medications and prescriptions, there are a few options to consider,” said Trae Bodge, smart shopping expert at True Trae. “You can have your items delivered. Several reliable online options exist, including Amazon’s pharmacy and services like Hims and Hers. Make sure to compare prices before getting set up with these services. Big-box and wholesale clubs also sell personal care, and most have their own pharmacies, so it’s worth checking prices there too.”
If your Walgreens or CVS is closing, take the time to find the right alternative.
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