Des Moines vs Ottumwa: Dietitian and Nutritionist Salary (2026)
Compare dietitian and nutritionist salaries between Des Moines, IA and Ottumwa, IA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Des Moines, IA | Ottumwa, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $68,387 | $71,265▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $32.87 | $34.27▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $38,942 | $50,785▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $46,942 | $61,645▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $82,226▲ | $81,364 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $95,359▲ | $91,368 |
| Total Employed | 210▲ | 5 |
Verdict
Des Moines and Ottumwa are closely matched on overall dietitian and nutritionist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Des Moines and Ottumwa is $2,878 (4.21%). Ottumwa's median is -10.22% compared to the US national median of $79,380.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Des Moines spans $56,417,Ottumwa spans $40,583. Des Moines 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, Ottumwa ($78,833 effective) pays 5.71% more than Des Moines ($74,576 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Des Moines if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($95,359)
- ✓Larger job market (210 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Choose Ottumwa if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($71,265/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $78,833)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, dietitian and nutritionist salaries in Des Moines grew 7.5% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 27.4% growth in Ottumwa over the same period.
Des Moines, IA
$61,230 (2019) → $65,820 (2025)
Ottumwa, IA
$53,830 (2024) → $68,590 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Des Moines, IA
Ottumwa, IA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays dietitian and nutritionists more: Des Moines or Ottumwa?
What is the hourly rate difference between Des Moines and Ottumwa?
Should I relocate from Des Moines to Ottumwa 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