Cranston vs Providence: Dietitian and Nutritionist Salary (2026)
Compare dietitian and nutritionist salaries between Cranston, RI and Providence, RI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Cranston, RI | Providence, RI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $78,034▲ | $75,047 |
| Hourly Rate | $37.52▲ | $36.08 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $52,053 | $55,046▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $65,279 | $68,657▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $93,555▲ | $89,479 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $108,804▲ | $104,752 |
| Total Employed | 12 | 550▲ |
Verdict
Cranston, RI offers better overall compensation for dietitians and nutritionists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Providence.
The salary gap between Cranston and Providence is $2,987 (3.98%). Cranston's median is -1.70% compared to the US national median of $79,380.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Cranston spans $56,751,Providence spans $49,706. Cranston 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, Cranston ($77,646 effective) pays 5.30% more than Providence ($73,740 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Cranston if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($78,034/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($108,804)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $77,646)
- ✓You prefer the Rhode Island area and lifestyle
Choose Providence if…
- ✓Larger job market (550 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Rhode Island area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, dietitian and nutritionist salaries in Cranston grew 9.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 14.9% growth in Providence over the same period.
Cranston, RI
$68,814 (2024) → $75,105 (2025)
Providence, RI
$62,870 (2019) → $72,230 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Cranston, RI
Providence, RI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays dietitian and nutritionists more: Cranston or Providence?
What is the hourly rate difference between Cranston and Providence?
Should I relocate from Cranston to Providence as a dietitian and nutritionist?
What do entry-level dietitian and nutritionists earn in Cranston vs Providence?
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