Albany vs Columbus: Dietitian and Nutritionist Salary (2026)
Compare dietitian and nutritionist salaries between Albany, GA and Columbus, GA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Albany, GA | Columbus, GA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $74,673▲ | $72,564 |
| Hourly Rate | $35.90▲ | $34.89 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $50,724▲ | $48,376 |
| 25th Percentile | $63,660▲ | $58,236 |
| 75th Percentile | $86,746▲ | $84,325 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $105,936▲ | $95,141 |
| Total Employed | 50 | 70▲ |
Verdict
Albany, GA offers better overall compensation for dietitians and nutritionists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Columbus.
The salary gap between Albany and Columbus is $2,109 (2.91%). Albany's median is -5.93% compared to the US national median of $79,380.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Albany spans $55,212,Columbus spans $46,765. Albany 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, Albany ($85,176 effective) pays 4.82% more than Columbus ($81,262 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Albany if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($74,673/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($105,936)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $85,176)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Choose Columbus if…
- ✓Larger job market (70 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, dietitian and nutritionist salaries in Albany grew 19.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 36.6% growth in Columbus over the same period.
Albany, GA
$60,250 (2019) → $71,870 (2025)
Columbus, GA
$51,120 (2019) → $69,840 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Albany, GA
Columbus, GA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays dietitian and nutritionists more: Albany or Columbus?
What is the hourly rate difference between Albany and Columbus?
Should I relocate from Albany to Columbus as a dietitian and nutritionist?
What do entry-level dietitian and nutritionists earn in Albany vs Columbus?
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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