DeKalb vs Rockford: Dietitian and Nutritionist Salary (2026)
Compare dietitian and nutritionist salaries between DeKalb, IL and Rockford, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DeKalb, IL | Rockford, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $63,493 | $65,696▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $30.53 | $31.59▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $44,082 | $58,745▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $54,240 | $64,075▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $71,423 | $77,083▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $86,524▲ | $80,710 |
| Total Employed | 9 | 100▲ |
Verdict
Rockford, IL offers better overall compensation for dietitians and nutritionists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to DeKalb.
The salary gap between DeKalb and Rockford is $2,203 (3.47%). Rockford's median is -17.24% compared to the US national median of $79,380.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in DeKalb spans $42,442,Rockford spans $21,965. DeKalb 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, Rockford ($71,289 effective) pays 9.02% more than DeKalb ($65,389 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose DeKalb if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($86,524)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Rockford if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($65,696/year)
- ✓Larger job market (100 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $71,289)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, dietitian and nutritionist salaries in DeKalb grew -3.8% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 6.8% growth in Rockford over the same period.
DeKalb, IL
$63,537 (2024) → $61,110 (2025)
Rockford, IL
$59,230 (2019) → $63,230 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
DeKalb, IL
Rockford, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays dietitian and nutritionists more: DeKalb or Rockford?
What is the hourly rate difference between DeKalb and Rockford?
Should I relocate from DeKalb to Rockford as a dietitian and nutritionist?
What do entry-level dietitian and nutritionists earn in DeKalb vs Rockford?
Related Comparisons
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