Bettendorf vs Cedar Rapids: Dietitian and Nutritionist Salary (2026)
Compare dietitian and nutritionist salaries between Bettendorf, IA and Cedar Rapids, IA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bettendorf, IA | Cedar Rapids, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $73,177 | $78,133▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $35.18 | $37.57▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $49,946 | $59,961▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $61,878 | $64,189▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $86,135▲ | $81,925 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $98,527▲ | $92,159 |
| Total Employed | 10 | 40▲ |
Verdict
Cedar Rapids, IA offers better overall compensation for dietitians and nutritionists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Bettendorf.
The salary gap between Bettendorf and Cedar Rapids is $4,956 (6.77%). Cedar Rapids's median is -1.57% compared to the US national median of $79,380.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bettendorf spans $48,581,Cedar Rapids spans $32,198. Bettendorf 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, Cedar Rapids ($87,826 effective) pays 8.50% more than Bettendorf ($80,948 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bettendorf if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($98,527)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Choose Cedar Rapids if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($78,133/year)
- ✓Larger job market (40 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $87,826)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, dietitian and nutritionist salaries in Bettendorf grew 27.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 29.6% growth in Cedar Rapids over the same period.
Bettendorf, IA
$55,274 (2024) → $70,430 (2025)
Cedar Rapids, IA
$58,020 (2019) → $75,200 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bettendorf, IA
Cedar Rapids, IA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays dietitian and nutritionists more: Bettendorf or Cedar Rapids?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bettendorf and Cedar Rapids?
Should I relocate from Bettendorf to Cedar Rapids as a dietitian and nutritionist?
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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