Healthcare South Dakota (SD) Rank #43 of 50

Dietitian Salary in South Dakota

The median dietitian salary in South Dakota is $58,476 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $66,450.

Median Salary
$58,476
vs National
$-7,974
State Rank
#43 of 50
Cost of Living
88%

Dietitian Salary Overview in South Dakota (2026)

South Dakota ranks #43 out of 50 states for dietitian compensation. Dietitian salaries in South Dakota are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $58,476 per year, dietitians in South Dakota earn $7,974 less than the national median of $66,450.

A key advantage of working in South Dakota is its below-average cost of living (88% of the national index). This means the $58,476 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $66,450 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in South Dakota is significant: dietitians at the 10th percentile earn $36,960, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $87,120 — a $50,160 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in South Dakota for this role is Sioux Falls, where the median reaches $61,134.

Nationally, dietitian employment is projected to grow 7% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for dietitians across the country.

Dietitian Salary in South Dakota by Experience

In South Dakota, an entry-level dietitian earns around $39,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $83,600 per year. The cost of living index in South Dakota is 88% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$39,600
$-5,400 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$59,840
$-8,160 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$83,600
$-11,400 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in South Dakota

Percentile SD Salary
10th Percentile $36,960
25th Percentile $46,640
Median (50th) $58,476
75th Percentile $73,040
90th Percentile $87,120

Dietitian Salary by City in South Dakota

The largest employment areas for dietitians in South Dakota include Sioux Falls, Rapid City, Aberdeen, and Brookings. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Dietitian in South Dakota

Education

Most dietitian positions require a bachelor's degree. South Dakota has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Medical Nutrition TherapyMeal PlanningPatient CounselingFood ScienceClinical NutritionDocumentation

Job Outlook in South Dakota

Nationally, dietitian employment is projected to grow 7% over the next decade (faster than average). South Dakota's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Dietitian Salary in South Dakota

How much does a Dietitian make in South Dakota? ▼
The median dietitian salary in South Dakota is $58,476 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $66,450. Salaries range from $36,960 (10th percentile) to $87,120 (90th percentile).
How much does a Dietitian make per hour in South Dakota? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $58,476, a dietitian in South Dakota earns approximately $28 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is South Dakota a good state for dietitians? ▼
South Dakota ranks #43 out of 50 states for dietitian pay. The cost of living index is 88% of the national average. Entry-level dietitians earn $39,600, while senior professionals earn $83,600.
How does South Dakota compare to other states for dietitian salary? ▼
The highest paying state for dietitians is Hawaii at $118,281. South Dakota's median of $58,476 ranks #43 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include South Carolina ($59,141) and Missouri ($58,476).
What is the entry-level dietitian salary in South Dakota? ▼
An entry-level dietitian in South Dakota earns approximately $39,600 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $59,840. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $83,600.
What city in South Dakota pays dietitians the most? ▼
Sioux Falls is the highest paying city in South Dakota for dietitians, with a median salary of $61,134. Other cities include Rapid City and Aberdeen.