Orthodontist vs Registered Dietitian: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
Orthodontist
Correct misaligned teeth and jaws using braces and other dental devices.
Registered Dietitian
Provide evidence-based nutritional guidance and meal plans for individuals.
Orthodontist earns more on average — the national median is $212,740/year (278%) higher than a Registered Dietitian. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Orthodontist vs Registered Dietitian — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Orthodontist | Registered Dietitian | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $414,875 | $111,580 | Orthodontist +$303,295 |
| New York, NY | $344,433 | $91,691 | Orthodontist +$252,742 |
| Seattle, WA | $410,008 | $107,646 | Orthodontist +$302,362 |
| Austin, TX | $329,388 | $84,638 | Orthodontist +$244,750 |
| Chicago, IL | $302,548 | $82,536 | Orthodontist +$220,012 |
| Boston, MA | $369,314 | $98,403 | Orthodontist +$270,911 |
| London, UK | £224,845 | £59,011 | Orthodontist +$165,834 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$377,816 | CA$101,162 | Orthodontist +$276,654 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Orthodontist or Registered Dietitian earn more?+
A Orthodontist earns more on average. The national median salary for a Orthodontist is $289,140/year, compared to $76,400/year for a Registered Dietitian — a difference of $212,740 (278%).
Which has better career growth — Orthodontist or Registered Dietitian?+
Orthodontist roles are growing at 6% YoY while Registered Dietitian demand is growing at 11% YoY. Registered Dietitian has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Orthodontist to Registered Dietitian?+
Yes. Many professionals transition between these roles, especially since both are in the same category. Shared skills include: analytical thinking, communication, and industry knowledge.
Which is harder to automate — Orthodontist or Registered Dietitian?+
Orthodontist has a lower AI automation risk (10% vs 26%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.