Salem vs Springfield: Dietitian and Nutritionist Salary (2026)
Compare dietitian and nutritionist salaries between Salem, MA and Springfield, MA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Salem, MA | Springfield, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $77,159▲ | $75,421 |
| Hourly Rate | $37.09▲ | $36.26 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $53,652 | $59,680▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $66,049 | $68,055▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $86,971 | $92,242▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $105,147 | $106,362▲ |
| Total Employed | 8 | 170▲ |
Verdict
Salem and Springfield are closely matched on overall dietitian and nutritionist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Salem and Springfield is $1,738 (2.30%). Salem's median is -2.80% compared to the US national median of $79,380.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Salem spans $51,495,Springfield spans $46,682. Salem 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, Springfield ($78,514 effective) pays 10.40% more than Salem ($71,114 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Salem if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($77,159/year)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Choose Springfield if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($106,362)
- ✓Larger job market (170 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $78,514)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, dietitian and nutritionist salaries in Salem grew -11.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 8.1% growth in Springfield over the same period.
Salem, MA
$83,634 (2024) → $74,263 (2025)
Springfield, MA
$67,120 (2019) → $72,590 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Springfield, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays dietitian and nutritionists more: Salem or Springfield?
What is the hourly rate difference between Salem and Springfield?
Should I relocate from Salem to Springfield as a dietitian and nutritionist?
What do entry-level dietitian and nutritionists earn in Salem vs Springfield?
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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