DietitianSalary

Dietitians make in the neighborhood of $50k a year. If you get an entry-level position at a hospital, medical clinic or company, you’ll likely earn much less, like between $30k-$35k. Those who have years of experience could make as much as $70k. Where you live also makes a difference. Those who live in metropolitan areas have higher salaries to make up for the high-cost of living.

For those looking to work independently, be aware that it takes roughly three months to go through the insurance credentialing process. Before you strike out on your own, be sure that you wait a couple of months before quitting your day job.

You’ll also have to eat the cost (hopefully it’s low-cal) if your patient decides not to show up. Basically, no-shows take up time that could have gone to another paying patient. In addition, you’ll also have to pay for everything that goes with having an office, like rent, lights and utility bills. Any marketing you want to do, such as getting a website hosted or sending out newsletters to promote your company, will be up to you. There are plenty of dietitians who enjoy setting their own hours, setting out carrot sticks in the waiting room and running their office.