Columbus vs Gulfport: Dietitian and Nutritionist Salary (2026)
Compare dietitian and nutritionist salaries between Columbus, MS and Gulfport, MS. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbus, MS | Gulfport, MS |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $63,970 | $69,114▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $30.75 | $33.23▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $41,292 | $44,802▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $56,171▲ | $55,545 |
| 75th Percentile | $71,553 | $83,837▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $79,311 | $92,991▲ |
| Total Employed | 6 | 60▲ |
Verdict
Gulfport, MS offers better overall compensation for dietitians and nutritionists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Columbus.
The salary gap between Columbus and Gulfport is $5,144 (8.04%). Gulfport's median is -12.93% compared to the US national median of $79,380.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Columbus spans $38,019,Gulfport spans $48,189. Gulfport has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced dietitian and nutritionists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Gulfport ($76,788 effective) pays 2.87% more than Columbus ($74,644 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Columbus if…
- ✓You prefer the Mississippi area and lifestyle
Choose Gulfport if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($69,114/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($92,991)
- ✓Larger job market (60 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $76,788)
- ✓You prefer the Mississippi area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, dietitian and nutritionist salaries in Columbus grew 41.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 15.3% growth in Gulfport over the same period.
Columbus, MS
$43,517 (2024) → $61,569 (2025)
Gulfport, MS
$57,680 (2019) → $66,520 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbus, MS
Gulfport, MS
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays dietitian and nutritionists more: Columbus or Gulfport?
What is the hourly rate difference between Columbus and Gulfport?
Should I relocate from Columbus to Gulfport as a dietitian and nutritionist?
What do entry-level dietitian and nutritionists earn in Columbus vs Gulfport?
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