Dietitians and Nutritionists: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 76,570 dietitians and nutritionists, and they earn a median of $73,850/year. The range runs from $49K to $102K. California pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level dietitians and nutritionists start around $49K. The gap between that and the median ($74K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $102K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| California | $94K | 9,630 |
| Oregon | $85K | 630 |
| Hawaii | $82K | 300 |
| Washington | $81K | 1,370 |
| Alaska | $81K | 110 |
| Massachusetts | $81K | 2,390 |
| Connecticut | $80K | 840 |
| New York | $79K | 5,500 |
| Maryland | $78K | 1,160 |
| New Jersey | $78K | 2,450 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a dietitians and nutritionists make?▼
The median dietitians and nutritionists salary in the United States is $73,850 per year ($36/hour). Entry-level positions start around $48,830, while experienced professionals earn up to $101,760.
What education do you need to become a dietitians and nutritionists?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for dietitians and nutritionists?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for dietitians and nutritionists.
What are the highest paying states for dietitians and nutritionists?▼
The highest paying states for dietitians and nutritionists are California ($93,640), Oregon ($84,990), Hawaii ($82,230), Washington ($81,050), Alaska ($81,010). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.