Registered dietitian pay
What registered dietitians earn — and keep — in 2026
Registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs) turn nutrition science into care plans in hospitals, clinics, schools, sports programs and private practice. The BLS puts the median dietitian/nutritionist at $73,850 (May 2024), with the top 10% above $103,000. A master's degree is now required for RDN credentialing, and specialty boards in renal, oncology, pediatric or sports nutrition tend to raise pay.
Where a dietitian's paycheck goes
On the $73,850 median, a single RDN sits in the 22% federal bracket after the standard deduction, plus 6.2% Social Security and 1.45% Medicare. Many hospital and university RDNs have access to a 403(b) or 401(k); contributions you make there are entered in the pre-tax field and lower your federal taxable income.
The highest-paying states for dietitians
Wages run highest in California, Hawaii, Maryland, New Jersey and Connecticut. California and Hawaii pay well but tax heavily, so a strong role in no-tax Texas or Washington can leave you with more take-home.
Compare dietitian pay with other healthcare careers
See how an RDN compares with an occupational therapist, a registered nurse or a physical therapist.
Questions
Registered Dietitian Salary Calculator FAQ
How much does a registered dietitian make in 2026?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median annual wage of $73,850 for dietitians and nutritionists (May 2024). The top 10% earn over $103,000. Registered dietitians (RDNs) who specialize in clinical, renal or sports nutrition, or who move into private practice and management, typically earn the most.
What is a registered dietitian's take-home pay on $73,850?
A single dietitian earning the $73,850 median takes home roughly $57,000 to $59,000 a year after federal income tax and FICA in a no-income-tax state, and a few thousand dollars less where state income tax applies. Enter your own salary and state above for an exact figure.
Do registered dietitians earn more in private practice?
Often yes. Hospital and long-term-care RDNs earn the stable median, while those in private practice, sports nutrition, food industry consulting or management can earn well above it — though self-employed dietitians also pay both halves of FICA. Enter your true annual earnings for the most accurate take-home.
Which states pay registered dietitians the most?
California, Hawaii, Maryland, New Jersey and Connecticut report the highest average dietitian wages. California and Hawaii pair high pay with high state income tax, while a high-paying role in a no-tax state like Texas or Washington maximizes take-home.
- Sources: BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook — Dietitians and Nutritionists (median $73,850, May 2024) · IRS Rev. Proc. 2025-32 · SSA 2026 wage base · State departments of revenue.
- 🔄 Last updated June 9, 2026 · Tax year 2026
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