Healthcare Virginia (VA) Rank #14 of 50

Dietitian Salary in Virginia

The median dietitian salary in Virginia is $70,437 per year, which is 6.0% above the national median of $66,450.

Median Salary
$70,437
vs National
+$3,987
State Rank
#14 of 50
Cost of Living
104%

Dietitian Salary Overview in Virginia (2026)

Virginia ranks #14 out of 50 states for dietitian compensation. Virginia falls in the middle of the pack for dietitian pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $70,437 per year, dietitians in Virginia earn $3,987 more than the national median of $66,450.

Virginia's cost of living is near the national average at 104%, meaning dietitian salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.

The salary spread in Virginia is significant: dietitians at the 10th percentile earn $44,520, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $104,940 — a $60,420 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Virginia for this role is Arlington, where the median reaches $89,043.

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 Virginia by Experience

In Virginia, an entry-level dietitian earns around $47,700, while experienced professionals earn up to $100,700 per year. The cost of living index in Virginia is 104% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$47,700
+$2,700 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$72,080
+$4,080 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$100,700
+$5,700 vs national

Build Wealth on Your Income

With a $70,437 income, financial advisors recommend investing 15–20% annually. Start building a diversified portfolio with as little as $10.

See Investment Options →

Salary Percentiles in Virginia

Percentile VA Salary
10th Percentile $44,520
25th Percentile $56,180
Median (50th) $70,437
75th Percentile $87,980
90th Percentile $104,940

Dietitian Salary by City in Virginia

The largest employment areas for dietitians in Virginia include Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Richmond, and Arlington. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Dietitian in Virginia

Education

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

Key Skills

Medical Nutrition TherapyMeal PlanningPatient CounselingFood ScienceClinical NutritionDocumentation

Job Outlook in Virginia

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

Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay

Data shows Dietitians who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $30,263 over your career trajectory.

Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →

Open to Dietitian Roles in Virginia?

Get matched with recruiters hiring dietitians in Virginia at competitive salaries.

Or browse positions directly:

Frequently Asked Questions: Dietitian Salary in Virginia

How much does a Dietitian make in Virginia? ▼
The median dietitian salary in Virginia is $70,437 per year, which is 6.0% above the national median of $66,450. Salaries range from $44,520 (10th percentile) to $104,940 (90th percentile).
How much does a Dietitian make per hour in Virginia? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $70,437, a dietitian in Virginia earns approximately $34 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Virginia a good state for dietitians? ▼
Virginia ranks #14 out of 50 states for dietitian pay. The cost of living index is 104% of the national average. Entry-level dietitians earn $47,700, while senior professionals earn $100,700.
How does Virginia compare to other states for dietitian salary? ▼
The highest paying state for dietitians is Hawaii at $118,281. Virginia's median of $70,437 ranks #14 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Rhode Island ($71,766) and Colorado ($71,102).
What is the entry-level dietitian salary in Virginia? ▼
An entry-level dietitian in Virginia earns approximately $47,700 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $72,080. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $100,700.
What city in Virginia pays dietitians the most? ▼
Arlington is the highest paying city in Virginia for dietitians, with a median salary of $89,043. Other cities include Virginia Beach and Norfolk.