Lacey vs Tacoma: Dietitian and Nutritionist Salary (2026)
Compare dietitian and nutritionist salaries between Lacey, WA and Tacoma, WA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Lacey, WA | Tacoma, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $78,522 | $89,478▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $37.75 | $43.01▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $52,771 | $56,113▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $66,042 | $72,554▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $89,723 | $109,299▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $110,075 | $130,051▲ |
| Total Employed | 12 | 56▲ |
Verdict
Tacoma, WA offers better overall compensation for dietitians and nutritionists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Lacey.
The salary gap between Lacey and Tacoma is $10,956 (13.95%). Tacoma's median is +12.72% compared to the US national median of $79,380.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Lacey spans $57,304,Tacoma spans $73,938. Tacoma 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, Tacoma ($83,313 effective) pays 13.95% more than Lacey ($73,112 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Lacey if…
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Choose Tacoma if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($89,478/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($130,051)
- ✓Larger job market (56 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $83,313)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, dietitian and nutritionist salaries in Lacey grew -10.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -1.0% growth in Tacoma over the same period.
Lacey, WA
$84,363 (2024) → $75,575 (2025)
Tacoma, WA
$87,021 (2024) → $86,119 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Tacoma, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays dietitian and nutritionists more: Lacey or Tacoma?
What is the hourly rate difference between Lacey and Tacoma?
Should I relocate from Lacey to Tacoma as a dietitian and nutritionist?
What do entry-level dietitian and nutritionists earn in Lacey vs Tacoma?
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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