Manhattan vs Topeka: Dietitian and Nutritionist Salary (2026)
Compare dietitian and nutritionist salaries between Manhattan, KS and Topeka, KS. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Manhattan, KS | Topeka, KS |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $76,803▲ | $74,361 |
| Hourly Rate | $36.93▲ | $35.75 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $54,755 | $63,057▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $64,013 | $65,176▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $91,048▲ | $82,954 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $101,271▲ | $86,757 |
| Total Employed | 30 | 70▲ |
Verdict
Manhattan, KS offers better overall compensation for dietitians and nutritionists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Topeka.
The salary gap between Manhattan and Topeka is $2,442 (3.28%). Manhattan's median is -3.25% compared to the US national median of $79,380.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Manhattan spans $46,516,Topeka spans $23,700. Manhattan 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, Manhattan ($85,183 effective) pays 1.75% more than Topeka ($83,721 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Manhattan if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($76,803/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($101,271)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $85,183)
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Choose Topeka if…
- ✓Larger job market (70 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, dietitian and nutritionist salaries in Manhattan grew 34.8% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 26.7% growth in Topeka over the same period.
Manhattan, KS
$54,843 (2024) → $73,920 (2025)
Topeka, KS
$56,480 (2019) → $71,570 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Manhattan, KS
Topeka, KS
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays dietitian and nutritionists more: Manhattan or Topeka?
What is the hourly rate difference between Manhattan and Topeka?
Should I relocate from Manhattan to Topeka as a dietitian and nutritionist?
What do entry-level dietitian and nutritionists earn in Manhattan vs Topeka?
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