Laguna Niguel vs Los Angeles: Dietitian and Nutritionist Salary (2026)
Compare dietitian and nutritionist salaries between Laguna Niguel, CA and Los Angeles, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Laguna Niguel, CA | Los Angeles, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $98,693 | $99,173▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $47.45 | $47.68▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $64,279 | $76,720▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $81,699 | $84,782▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $117,308▲ | $107,724 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $136,424▲ | $121,054 |
| Total Employed | 16 | 3,060▲ |
Verdict
Los Angeles, CA offers better overall compensation for dietitians and nutritionists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Laguna Niguel.
The salary gap between Laguna Niguel and Los Angeles is $480 (0.49%). Los Angeles's median is +24.93% compared to the US national median of $79,380.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Laguna Niguel spans $72,145,Los Angeles spans $44,334. Laguna Niguel 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, Los Angeles ($87,326 effective) pays 0.07% more than Laguna Niguel ($87,262 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Laguna Niguel if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($136,424)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose Los Angeles if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($99,173/year)
- ✓Larger job market (3,060 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $87,326)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, dietitian and nutritionist salaries in Laguna Niguel grew -1.7% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 24.8% growth in Los Angeles over the same period.
Laguna Niguel, CA
$96,637 (2024) → $94,988 (2025)
Los Angeles, CA
$76,460 (2019) → $95,450 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Laguna Niguel, CA
Los Angeles, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays dietitian and nutritionists more: Laguna Niguel or Los Angeles?
What is the hourly rate difference between Laguna Niguel and Los Angeles?
Should I relocate from Laguna Niguel to Los Angeles 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