Des Moines vs Johnston: Dietitian and Nutritionist Salary (2026)
Compare dietitian and nutritionist salaries between Des Moines, IA and Johnston, IA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Des Moines, IA | Johnston, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $68,387 | $71,093▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $32.87 | $34.18▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $38,942 | $50,372▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $46,942 | $61,284▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $82,226 | $82,583▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $95,359▲ | $93,092 |
| Total Employed | 210▲ | 4 |
Verdict
Des Moines and Johnston are closely matched on overall dietitian and nutritionist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Des Moines and Johnston is $2,706 (3.96%). Johnston's median is -10.44% compared to the US national median of $79,380.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Des Moines spans $56,417,Johnston spans $42,720. Des Moines 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, Johnston ($78,643 effective) pays 5.45% more than Des Moines ($74,576 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Des Moines if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($95,359)
- ✓Larger job market (210 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Choose Johnston if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($71,093/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $78,643)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, dietitian and nutritionist salaries in Des Moines grew 7.5% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 27.4% growth in Johnston over the same period.
Des Moines, IA
$61,230 (2019) → $65,820 (2025)
Johnston, IA
$53,699 (2024) → $68,424 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Des Moines, IA
Johnston, IA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays dietitian and nutritionists more: Des Moines or Johnston?
What is the hourly rate difference between Des Moines and Johnston?
Should I relocate from Des Moines to Johnston as a dietitian and nutritionist?
What do entry-level dietitian and nutritionists earn in Des Moines vs Johnston?
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