How to Become a Dietitians and Nutritionists in California
Dietitians and Nutritionists in California earn a median salary of $93,640/year, which is 27% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~5.2%. After taxes and rent, a dietitians and nutritionists takes home approximately $4,373/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a dietitians and nutritionists can afford in California
Becoming a dietitians and nutritionists in California
Meet education requirements
Dietitians and Nutritionists positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many dietitians and nutritionists positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for dietitians and nutritionistss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 9,630 dietitians and nutritionists. The highest concentrations are in Vallejo and San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara.
Dietitians and Nutritionists salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vallejo | $108K | $52.16/hr | 90 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $107K | $51.21/hr | 810 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $103K | $49.33/hr | 100 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $102K | $48.95/hr | 1,550 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $101K | $48.36/hr | 600 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $100K | $47.85/hr | 100 |
| Modesto | $99K | $47.83/hr | 110 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $97K | $46.86/hr | 50 |
| Salinas | $97K | $46.67/hr | 70 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $96K | $46.3/hr | 730 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $93K | $44.68/hr | 3,190 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $90K | $43.5/hr | 170 |
| Chico | $90K | $43.43/hr | 50 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $90K | $43.38/hr | 120 |
| Napa | $90K | $43.36/hr | 40 |
Dietitians and Nutritionists salary range in California
Dietitians and Nutritionists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a dietitians and nutritionists make in California?▼
The median dietitians and nutritionists salary in California is $93,640 per year ($45.02/hr). This is 27% above the national median of $73,850. Salaries range from $64,330 to $127,460.
What are the requirements to become a dietitians and nutritionists in California?▼
Dietitians and Nutritionists positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a dietitians and nutritionists afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $93,640, a dietitians and nutritionists in California would take home approximately $5,785/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 24.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for dietitians and nutritionists in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for dietitians and nutritionists in California are Vallejo ($108,490), San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($106,520), Santa Rosa-Petaluma ($102,600). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for dietitians and nutritionists?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.2%. On a $93,640 salary, this means roughly $4,846/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.