Phoenix vs Tucson: Dietitian and Nutritionist Salary (2026)
Compare dietitian and nutritionist salaries between Phoenix, AZ and Tucson, AZ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Phoenix, AZ | Tucson, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $66,932 | $67,140▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $32.18 | $32.28▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $44,833 | $46,911▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $44,833 | $62,205▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $83,193▲ | $79,889 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $97,188▲ | $93,926 |
| Total Employed | 1,280▲ | 240 |
Verdict
Phoenix and Tucson are closely matched on overall dietitian and nutritionist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Phoenix and Tucson is $208 (0.31%). Tucson's median is -15.42% compared to the US national median of $79,380.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Phoenix spans $52,355,Tucson spans $47,015. Phoenix 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, Tucson ($69,291 effective) pays 6.96% more than Phoenix ($64,784 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Phoenix if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($97,188)
- ✓Larger job market (1,280 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Choose Tucson if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($67,140/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $69,291)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, dietitian and nutritionist salaries in Phoenix grew 13.5% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 8.4% growth in Tucson over the same period.
Phoenix, AZ
$56,740 (2019) → $64,420 (2025)
Tucson, AZ
$59,630 (2019) → $64,620 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Phoenix, AZ
Tucson, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays dietitian and nutritionists more: Phoenix or Tucson?
What is the hourly rate difference between Phoenix and Tucson?
Should I relocate from Phoenix to Tucson as a dietitian and nutritionist?
What do entry-level dietitian and nutritionists earn in Phoenix vs Tucson?
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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