CVS vs Walgreens
CVS
Largest integrated pharmacy and healthcare services provider in the U.S.
Customers seeking comprehensive healthcare solutions, insurance options, and integrated pharmacy services
Walgreens
Third-largest pharmacy chain focusing on convenience and community access.
Budget-conscious customers preferring local convenience and basic pharmacy services
Short Answer
CVS significantly outperforms Walgreens in revenue ($370B vs $147B in 2024) and profitability, offering broader healthcare services and stronger market position. Walgreens focuses on convenience and loyalty rewards but faces financial challenges and ongoing store closures. Choose CVS for comprehensive healthcare integration or Walgreens for local convenience.
Our Verdict
AI-assistedCVS Health dominates the pharmacy market in 2026 with superior financial performance, broader healthcare integration, and strategic growth. Walgreens struggles with store closures and narrower service offerings but remains valuable for local convenience. CVS is the better choice for comprehensive healthcare needs, while Walgreens suits those prioritizing nearby locations.
Was this verdict helpful?
Choose CVS if
Customers seeking comprehensive healthcare solutions, insurance options, and integrated pharmacy services
Choose Walgreens if
Budget-conscious customers preferring local convenience and basic pharmacy services
Track this comparison
Get notified when prices change, new specs ship, or our verdict updates.
Triggers: price change new spec verdict update
No spam. Stop anytime.
Key Differences at a Glance
Key Facts & Figures
| Metric | CVS | Walgreens | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Revenue (2024)(Billion USD) | CVS | Walgreens | +152% |
| Fiscal 2026 Revenue Projection(Billion USD) | CVS | Walgreens | +233% |
| Q4 2025 Revenue Growth(%) | CVS | Walgreens | +500% |
| Store Closures (2024-2026)(Number of Stores) | CVS | Walgreens | -100% |
All figures sourced from publicly available data. Last updated Jun 2026.
Key Differences
CVS
$370+ billion🏆
Walgreens
$147 billion
CVS
Market leader with integrated healthcare🏆
Walgreens
Third-largest chain, consolidating operations
CVS
Stable network expansion🏆
Walgreens
500+ stores closed by early 2026
CVS
Extensive clinics, insurance, pharmacy🏆
Walgreens
Pharmacy-focused with limited clinics
CVS
$400+ billion projected🏆
Walgreens
Below $147 billion expected
CVS
Integrated digital platform
Walgreens
Convenient but limited features
CVS
Beat Q4 analyst expectations🏆
Walgreens
Facing profitability challenges
CVS
Nationwide network with services
Walgreens
Local convenience locations🏆
Full Comparison
| Attribute | CVS | Walgreens |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Revenue (2024)(Billion USD) | CVS | Walgreens |
| Fiscal 2026 Revenue Projection(Billion USD) | CVS | Walgreens |
| Analyst Earnings Beat (Q4 2025)(Yes/No) | Yes - beat expectations | No - underperforming |
| Q4 2025 Revenue Growth(%) | CVS | Walgreens |
| Healthcare Service Integration(Level) | Comprehensive (clinics, insurance, pharmacy) | Basic (pharmacy-focused) |
| Store Closures (2024-2026)(Number of Stores) | CVS | Walgreens |
| Digital/Mobile Platform(Features) | Fully integrated with telehealth | Functional app with core features |
| Local Store Convenience(Accessibility Rating) | CVS | Walgreens |
Visual Comparison
Side-by-side comparison of numeric attributes
Pros & Cons
CVS
Pros
- Highest revenue and profitability in sector
- Integrated healthcare services including clinics and insurance
- Strong Q4 2025 earnings growth (8%+ year-over-year)
- Expanding digital and telehealth capabilities
- Stable store footprint and expansion plans
Cons
- Higher operational complexity from diverse services
- Premium pricing on some services versus competitors
- Large organization can have slower innovation
Walgreens
Pros
- Convenient neighborhood locations
- Loyalty rewards program
- User-friendly mobile app
- Strong brand recognition
- Quick prescription services
Cons
- 500+ store closures by early 2026
- Lower profitability and revenue than competitors
- Limited integrated healthcare services
- Narrower service portfolio than CVS
- Financial restructuring underway
Frequently Asked Questions
Walgreens closed 500+ stores by early 2026 as part of a broader restructuring plan announced in 2024 targeting 1,200 store closures. This reflects financial pressures and market consolidation as the chain refocuses on profitable locations.
Resources & Learn More
Dive deeper with these curated resources
Where to Buy
As an affiliate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. Learn more
Wikipedia
Related Comparisons
iPhone 17 vs Samsung Galaxy S26
technology
PS5 vs Xbox Series X
technology
Mac vs Windows
technology
Android vs iOS
technology
NVIDIA vs AMD
technology
MacBook Air 13-inch M5 vs MacBook Pro 14-inch M5/Pro/Max 2026
products
Apple MacBook Air M5 vs MacBook Pro 14/16-inch M5 Max
products
Ring Doorbell vs Nest Doorbell
products
Greenhouse vs Lever
products
MacBook Air vs MacBook Pro 2026
products
Workday Recruiting vs Greenhouse
products
Netflix vs Max
products
Related Articles
Best Streaming Services in 2026: Top Picks for Every Budget & Interest
Navigating the crowded streaming landscape in 2026 can be overwhelming. We've tested and ranked the best streaming services that offer the most value, from Netflix's massive library to budget-friendly options like Tubi, helping you cut cable and find your perfect entertainment solution.
Best Live TV Streaming Services & Plans for Spring 2026: Complete Buyer's Guide
Tired of overpaying for cable? Discover the best live TV streaming services and plans for Spring 2026, including YouTube TV's new genre-based packages starting at $55/month. Our comprehensive guide breaks down pricing, channels, and features to help you cut the cord.
Philo in 2026: Streaming TV Service Review, Pricing & Reddit Community Insights
Explore Philo's evolution heading into 2026, including pricing tiers, channel lineup, and how it compares to competitors like Sling TV. Discover what the r/PhiloTV Reddit community thinks about the service's current offerings and future prospects.
Best US Fighter Jets 2026: Top American Combat Aircraft Ranked
Discover the most advanced US fighter jets dominating the skies in 2026. From the legendary F-22 Raptor to the versatile F-35 Lightning II, we rank America's best combat aircraft based on performance, stealth, and air superiority capabilities.
Philo in 2026: Pricing, Lineup & How It Compares to Sling TV
As we head into 2026, Philo continues to position itself as an affordable streaming alternative for cable TV lovers. Discover what Philo offers, how its pricing stacks up against competitors like Sling TV, and what the Reddit community thinks about its future.