Salina vs Topeka: Dietitian and Nutritionist Salary (2026)
Compare dietitian and nutritionist salaries between Salina, KS and Topeka, KS. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Salina, KS | Topeka, KS |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $69,821 | $74,361▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $33.57 | $35.75▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $49,110 | $63,057▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $60,114 | $65,176▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $78,996 | $82,954▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $89,121▲ | $86,757 |
| Total Employed | 11 | 70▲ |
Verdict
Topeka, KS offers better overall compensation for dietitians and nutritionists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Salina.
The salary gap between Salina and Topeka is $4,540 (6.50%). Topeka's median is -6.32% compared to the US national median of $79,380.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Salina spans $40,011,Topeka spans $23,700. Salina 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, Topeka ($83,721 effective) pays 9.00% more than Salina ($76,811 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Salina if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($89,121)
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Choose Topeka if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($74,361/year)
- ✓Larger job market (70 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $83,721)
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, dietitian and nutritionist salaries in Salina grew 27.3% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 26.7% growth in Topeka over the same period.
Salina, KS
$52,775 (2024) → $67,200 (2025)
Topeka, KS
$56,480 (2019) → $71,570 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Salina, KS
Topeka, KS
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays dietitian and nutritionists more: Salina or Topeka?
What is the hourly rate difference between Salina and Topeka?
Should I relocate from Salina to Topeka as a dietitian and nutritionist?
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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