Manchester vs Rochester: Dietitian and Nutritionist Salary (2026)
Compare dietitian and nutritionist salaries between Manchester, NH and Rochester, NH. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Manchester, NH | Rochester, NH |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $68,117 | $81,987▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $32.75 | $39.42▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $32,625 | $56,965▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $36,947 | $70,071▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $87,006 | $95,336▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $98,591 | $108,876▲ |
| Total Employed | 140▲ | 7 |
Verdict
Rochester, NH offers better overall compensation for dietitians and nutritionists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Manchester.
The salary gap between Manchester and Rochester is $13,870 (20.36%). Rochester's median is +3.28% compared to the US national median of $79,380.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Manchester spans $65,966,Rochester spans $51,911. Manchester 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, Rochester ($76,409 effective) pays 18.52% more than Manchester ($64,470 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Manchester if…
- ✓Larger job market (140 employed)
- ✓You prefer the New Hampshire area and lifestyle
Choose Rochester if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($81,987/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($108,876)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $76,409)
- ✓You prefer the New Hampshire area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, dietitian and nutritionist salaries in Manchester grew -1.1% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 9.1% growth in Rochester over the same period.
Manchester, NH
$66,260 (2019) → $65,560 (2025)
Rochester, NH
$72,300 (2024) → $78,910 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Manchester, NH
Rochester, NH
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays dietitian and nutritionists more: Manchester or Rochester?
What is the hourly rate difference between Manchester and Rochester?
Should I relocate from Manchester to Rochester as a dietitian and nutritionist?
What do entry-level dietitian and nutritionists earn in Manchester vs Rochester?
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