Dietitian / Nutritionist Salary.
Across 83 U.S. cities.
$64,000
national median salary
$52,000 to $78,000. Last updated April 2026.
Highest Paying
$88,000
San Francisco, CA
Best Purchasing Power
$67,000
San Diego, CA
Lowest Paying
$50,000
Little Rock, AR
Salary data sourced from SEC filings, H-1B Labor Condition Applications (DOL), Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, and aggregated job postings across 50+ platforms. Ranges reflect 25th to 75th percentile for full-time positions. Cost-of-living adjustments use Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities (2025 index). Last updated April 2026.
The average Dietitian / Nutritionist salary in the United States is $64,000 in 2026, with the full range spanning $52,000 at the 25th percentile to $78,000 at the 75th. San Francisco pays the most at $88,000, while San Diego offers the best purchasing power after cost-of-living adjustments. Practice setting drives the most variation, with hospital clinical dietitians earning above community health and long-term care positions.
Dietitian / Nutritionist salary by city
Skills that increase Dietitian / Nutritionist pay
The skills below command measurable salary premiums for Dietitian / Nutritionists based on job posting data. Learning the top skill here could add $8,960 to your annual compensation.
≈ +$8,960 per year
≈ +$8,320 per year
≈ +$7,680 per year
≈ +$7,040 per year
≈ +$7,040 per year
≈ +$6,400 per year
≈ +$6,400 per year
≈ +$5,760 per year
What you should know
Practice setting drives the most variation, with hospital clinical dietitians earning above community health and long-term care positions. Board certifications in specialties like oncology nutrition, renal, or sports dietetics add 8 to 12% premiums. State licensure requirements and metropolitan locations with higher demand also increase compensation.
Entry-level RDs earn $50,000 to $56,000 in clinical settings after completing their internship. Experienced clinical dietitians with specializations reach $65,000 to $78,000. Nutrition directors or private practice owners can earn $80,000 to $105,000 depending on setting and client volume.
Clinical dietitians receive comprehensive hospital benefits including health insurance, retirement matching, and CE reimbursement. Private practice dietitians can earn more per hour but face overhead costs. Some positions offer meal stipends and wellness program incentives.