Columbia vs Tega Cay: Dietitian and Nutritionist Salary (2026)
Compare dietitian and nutritionist salaries between Columbia, SC and Tega Cay, SC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbia, SC | Tega Cay, SC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $70,735▲ | $65,260 |
| Hourly Rate | $34.01▲ | $31.38 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $37,581 | $45,510▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $52,147 | $55,779▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $82,725▲ | $73,924 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $98,726▲ | $82,490 |
| Total Employed | 170▲ | 4 |
Verdict
Columbia, SC offers better overall compensation for dietitians and nutritionists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Tega Cay.
The salary gap between Columbia and Tega Cay is $5,475 (8.39%). Columbia's median is -10.89% compared to the US national median of $79,380.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Columbia spans $61,145,Tega Cay spans $36,980. Columbia 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, Columbia ($75,522 effective) pays 5.89% more than Tega Cay ($71,322 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Columbia if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($70,735/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($98,726)
- ✓Larger job market (170 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $75,522)
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Tega Cay if…
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, dietitian and nutritionist salaries in Columbia grew 24.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 24.0% growth in Tega Cay over the same period.
Columbia, SC
$54,780 (2019) → $68,080 (2025)
Tega Cay, SC
$50,650 (2024) → $62,810 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbia, SC
Tega Cay, SC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays dietitian and nutritionists more: Columbia or Tega Cay?
What is the hourly rate difference between Columbia and Tega Cay?
Should I relocate from Columbia to Tega Cay as a dietitian and nutritionist?
What do entry-level dietitian and nutritionists earn in Columbia vs Tega Cay?
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