The retail landscape in the U.S. is shifting, and CVS Health’s announcement about closing 270 stores nationwide in 2025 is shaking things up. If you’re a regular CVS shopper, or just someone keeping tabs on the retail pharmacy market, this news is a big deal. It’s part of CVS’s ongoing effort to realign its retail footprint in response to changing consumer habits, market pressures, and evolving healthcare needs.
This article breaks down what’s happening with these store closures, why CVS is making these moves, how it affects you, and what alternatives are available. Whether you’re just curious or directly impacted, we’ve got you covered with a clear, easy-to-understand guide.
CVS Closing 270 Stores Nationwide
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of stores closing | 270 stores across the U.S. in 2025 |
| Previous closures | About 900 stores closed between 2022 and 2024 |
| Main reasons | Population shifts, changing consumer buying patterns, pharmacy density |
| Focus of new stores | Smaller-format locations focusing on pharmacy and health services |
| New store openings planned | Around 30, including CVS pharmacies inside Target stores |
| Impacted major cities | New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, among others |
| Alternative services | CVS online prescription refills, telehealth, and delivery |
The CVS Health 270 store closures in 2025 mark a significant moment in the evolving retail pharmacy industry. While it may cause inconvenience for some customers, CVS’s pivot to smaller, health-focused stores and digital services aims to meet modern consumer demands better. The company’s efforts to expand online and within Target stores show a commitment to accessibility and convenience.
If your local CVS is closing, don’t panic. Use CVS’s online tools and alternative pharmacy options to stay covered. Keeping an eye on official updates will help you stay ahead of changes. For the latest updates on store closures and openings, visit the official CVS website and stay informed.
Why Is CVS Closing 270 Stores Nationwide?
CVS Health has been tightening its retail belt for a few years now. Between 2022 and 2024, they shuttered roughly 900 locations. This new batch of 270 closures in 2025 continues that trend, but it’s not just about trimming the fat—it’s about shifting strategy.
The retail pharmacy game is fierce. Consumers are shopping differently—more online, more selectively, and often with a stronger focus on convenience and value. Plus, there’s a lot of pharmacy saturation in some areas, meaning too many stores fighting for the same customers. CVS’s data shows population shifts in certain neighborhoods and cities also play a big role in deciding which stores stay open and which close.
The company is doubling down on a smaller, more streamlined store format that highlights pharmacy services and health products, rather than the traditional, big-box retail approach. This pivot reflects broader healthcare trends emphasizing easy access to medication, wellness services, and integrated care.
The Big Picture: What This Means for Consumers
So, what’s the real-world impact here? For many shoppers, the nearest CVS may suddenly be further away or simply not there anymore. But don’t sweat it just yet. CVS is investing in technology and alternative service channels, making it easier than ever to fill prescriptions online, get medications delivered, or use in-store health clinics.
Plus, the new smaller-format stores are designed to serve communities that really need easy access to pharmacies, especially in medically underserved areas. CVS is also expanding its presence inside select Target stores, blending retail and pharmacy services for a more convenient shopping experience.
Still, some customers will feel the pinch. If you live in one of the cities or neighborhoods where stores are closing, planning ahead is key.
Step-By-Step: How to Check If Your CVS Store Is Closing
If you’re wondering whether your local CVS is on the chopping block, here’s a quick guide:
Step 1: Visit the Official CVS Store Locator
Head over to the CVS Store Locator. This tool is regularly updated with the latest store information, including closures.
Step 2: Enter Your Zip Code or City
Type your zip code or city name to see all nearby CVS stores.
Step 3: Look for Closure Notices or Updates
Stores scheduled to close are often marked or have notices on their pages. If it’s unclear, you can always call the store directly for confirmation.
Step 4: Explore Alternative Services
If your store is closing, check out CVS’s online prescription refill and delivery options or nearby smaller-format stores.
CVS’s Strategic Shift: Smaller Stores and Digital Growth
CVS is betting big on a smaller-store, health-focused future. Instead of the old sprawling drugstore layout stocked with all kinds of products, the new locations zero in on pharmacy, immunizations, health screenings, and wellness products. This aligns with rising consumer preferences for quick, accessible health services rather than extensive retail shopping.
Additionally, CVS is investing heavily in digital health. The company offers a robust online platform where customers can manage prescriptions, get reminders, schedule telehealth visits, and order delivery or curbside pickup. This strategy is designed to capture more customers in a competitive market dominated by big online players.
CVS’s push to open roughly 30 new locations inside Target stores also signals a fresh hybrid retail model, blending convenience and one-stop shopping.
How This Affects CVS Employees
Store closures also affect CVS employees across the country. While CVS often offers transfers to other locations or roles, not every employee can be reassigned, and job losses are inevitable in some cases. CVS has emphasized working with affected workers to find solutions, but the retail shakeup underscores broader industry challenges.
Alternatives to CVS Store Visits
Even if your nearest CVS closes, you have plenty of options:
- CVS Online: Refill prescriptions, order home delivery, and schedule telehealth appointments on CVS.com.
- MinuteClinic: Many CVS stores have MinuteClinic walk-in health clinics or virtual visits to address minor illnesses, vaccinations, and wellness care.
- Other Pharmacies: Walgreens, Rite Aid, Walmart, and independent pharmacies remain alternatives.
- Mail-Order Pharmacies: Especially for maintenance medications, mail-order can be a convenient option.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How many CVS stores are closing in 2025?
CVS plans to close 270 stores nationwide in 2025, following about 900 closures from 2022 to 2024.
2. Which cities are most affected by these closures?
Major metropolitan areas like New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Philadelphia have several locations affected, along with other cities experiencing demographic shifts.
3. Can I still get my prescriptions filled if my CVS store closes?
Yes, you can use CVS’s online platform for prescription refills, home delivery, or visit nearby CVS smaller-format stores or partner locations like Target.
4. Will CVS open any new stores?
Yes, CVS plans to open around 30 new smaller-format stores, including pharmacy sections inside select Target stores.
5. How do I find out if my local CVS store is closing?
Visit the CVS Store Locator or call your local store directly to check for closure announcements.
6. How are CVS employees affected?
Employees may be offered transfers or other roles, but some could face job losses due to store closures.
