Montgomery vs Tuscaloosa: Dietitian and Nutritionist Salary (2026)
Compare dietitian and nutritionist salaries between Montgomery, AL and Tuscaloosa, AL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Montgomery, AL | Tuscaloosa, AL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $68,616▲ | $68,314 |
| Hourly Rate | $32.99▲ | $32.84 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $39,150 | $52,615▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $62,891▲ | $59,296 |
| 75th Percentile | $83,234▲ | $80,180 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $92,170 | $99,588▲ |
| Total Employed | 60 | 70▲ |
Verdict
Montgomery and Tuscaloosa are closely matched on overall dietitian and nutritionist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Montgomery and Tuscaloosa is $302 (0.44%). Montgomery's median is -13.56% compared to the US national median of $79,380.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Montgomery spans $53,020,Tuscaloosa spans $46,973. Montgomery 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, Tuscaloosa ($77,876 effective) pays 1.78% more than Montgomery ($76,510 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Montgomery if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($68,616/year)
- ✓You prefer the Alabama area and lifestyle
Choose Tuscaloosa if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($99,588)
- ✓Larger job market (70 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $77,876)
- ✓You prefer the Alabama area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, dietitian and nutritionist salaries in Montgomery grew 6.5% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 13.0% growth in Tuscaloosa over the same period.
Montgomery, AL
$61,990 (2019) → $66,040 (2025)
Tuscaloosa, AL
$58,170 (2019) → $65,750 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Montgomery, AL
Tuscaloosa, AL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays dietitian and nutritionists more: Montgomery or Tuscaloosa?
What is the hourly rate difference between Montgomery and Tuscaloosa?
Should I relocate from Montgomery to Tuscaloosa as a dietitian and nutritionist?
What do entry-level dietitian and nutritionists earn in Montgomery vs Tuscaloosa?
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