Bellevue vs Tacoma: Dietitian and Nutritionist Salary (2026)
Compare dietitian and nutritionist salaries between Bellevue, WA and Tacoma, WA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bellevue, WA | Tacoma, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $91,887▲ | $89,478 |
| Hourly Rate | $44.18▲ | $43.01 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $55,652 | $56,113▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $73,027▲ | $72,554 |
| 75th Percentile | $107,972 | $109,299▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $131,581▲ | $130,051 |
| Total Employed | 26 | 56▲ |
Verdict
Bellevue, WA offers better overall compensation for dietitians and nutritionists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Tacoma.
The salary gap between Bellevue and Tacoma is $2,409 (2.69%). Bellevue's median is +15.76% compared to the US national median of $79,380.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bellevue spans $75,929,Tacoma spans $73,938. Bellevue has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Bellevue ($85,556 effective) pays 2.69% more than Tacoma ($83,313 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bellevue if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($91,887/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($131,581)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $85,556)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Choose Tacoma if…
- ✓Larger job market (56 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, dietitian and nutritionist salaries in Bellevue grew 0.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -1.0% growth in Tacoma over the same period.
Bellevue, WA
$87,630 (2024) → $88,438 (2025)
Tacoma, WA
$87,021 (2024) → $86,119 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bellevue, WA
Tacoma, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays dietitian and nutritionists more: Bellevue or Tacoma?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bellevue and Tacoma?
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Written by Aisha Patel, MS, RD
Career Analyst
Aisha has 10 years of experience as a nutrition consultant. She specializes in sports nutrition. Aisha works with professional athletes and teams.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 3.90% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Aisha Patel, MS, RD, a licensed dietitian and nutritionist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov