Salem vs Worcester: Dietitian and Nutritionist Salary (2026)
Compare dietitian and nutritionist salaries between Salem, MA and Worcester, MA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Salem, MA | Worcester, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $77,159 | $77,218▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $37.09 | $37.12▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $53,652 | $60,574▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $66,049 | $71,691▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $86,971 | $96,866▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $105,147 | $105,365▲ |
| Total Employed | 8 | 350▲ |
Verdict
Worcester, MA offers better overall compensation for dietitians and nutritionists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Salem.
The salary gap between Salem and Worcester is $59 (0.08%). Worcester's median is -2.72% 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,Worcester spans $44,791. 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, Worcester ($75,318 effective) pays 5.91% 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…
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Choose Worcester if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($77,218/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($105,365)
- ✓Larger job market (350 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $75,318)
- ✓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 -2.6% growth in Worcester over the same period.
Salem, MA
$83,634 (2024) → $74,263 (2025)
Worcester, MA
$76,320 (2019) → $74,320 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Worcester, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays dietitian and nutritionists more: Salem or Worcester?
What is the hourly rate difference between Salem and Worcester?
Should I relocate from Salem to Worcester as a dietitian and nutritionist?
What do entry-level dietitian and nutritionists earn in Salem vs Worcester?
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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