Phoenix vs Surprise: Dietitian and Nutritionist Salary (2026)
Compare dietitian and nutritionist salaries between Phoenix, AZ and Surprise, AZ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Phoenix, AZ | Surprise, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $66,932 | $78,020▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $32.18 | $37.51▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $44,833 | $51,013▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $44,833 | $64,616▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $83,193 | $92,614▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $97,188 | $108,247▲ |
| Total Employed | 1,280▲ | 31 |
Verdict
Surprise, AZ offers better overall compensation for dietitians and nutritionists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Phoenix.
The salary gap between Phoenix and Surprise is $11,088 (16.57%). Surprise's median is -1.71% compared to the US national median of $79,380.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Phoenix spans $52,355,Surprise spans $57,234. Surprise has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced dietitian and nutritionists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Surprise ($79,208 effective) pays 22.27% more than Phoenix ($64,784 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Phoenix if…
- ✓Larger job market (1,280 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Choose Surprise if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($78,020/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($108,247)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $79,208)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, dietitian and nutritionist salaries in Phoenix grew 13.5% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 12.4% growth in Surprise over the same period.
Phoenix, AZ
$56,740 (2019) → $64,420 (2025)
Surprise, AZ
$66,835 (2024) → $75,091 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Phoenix, AZ
Surprise, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays dietitian and nutritionists more: Phoenix or Surprise?
What is the hourly rate difference between Phoenix and Surprise?
Should I relocate from Phoenix to Surprise as a dietitian and nutritionist?
What do entry-level dietitian and nutritionists earn in Phoenix vs Surprise?
Related Comparisons
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