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How Much Do Massage Therapists Make in the US Today

Did you know the massage therapy industry in the US is worth $16.6 billion1? This huge number shows how much people want massage therapists. I’ve always wondered how much they make.

Massage therapists earn different amounts based on their skills. In Minneapolis-St. Paul, newbies make about $42,000 a year. But those with over 10 years of experience make around $52,8502. This shows that more experience means more money.

The job outlook is also promising. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says massage therapist jobs will grow by 22% soon2. This is much faster than most jobs. People are starting to see how massage can help with pain, with 88% of adults agreeing2.

Nationally, massage therapists make about $28 an hour, or $4,890 a month3. But, how much they make can change a lot. For example, those in San Francisco, CA, make about $73,357 a year3.

It’s not just the base salary that matters. Tips are a big part of their income too. Almost two-thirds of massage therapists get tips about 60% of the time1. Also, being specialized can really increase what they earn. Board-certified massage therapists make about $33,139 a year, which is $7,000 more than others1.

Key Takeaways

  • The massage therapy industry is valued at $16.6 billion in the US
  • Entry-level salaries start around $42,000, increasing with experience
  • Employment growth is projected at 22%, far exceeding the average
  • Average hourly rate is $28, with monthly earnings around $4,890
  • Location significantly impacts earnings, with major cities offering higher salaries
  • Certification and specialization can boost income substantially
  • Tips and additional income streams contribute to overall earnings

Overview of Massage Therapist Salaries in the US

I’ve explored the world of massage therapist pay, and it’s fascinating. Massage therapy salaries vary across the US, influenced by many factors.

National Average Salary

In 2022, the median annual wage for massage therapists was $49,8604. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a slightly higher figure of $55,3105. Top earners can make over $90,000 a year, showing the field’s income potential4.

Factors Affecting Salaries

Several factors influence massage therapist pay rates. Location is key, with New Jersey leading at $76,199 per year. Wyoming and Wisconsin follow closely4. Work settings also matter, with chiropractic offices and health practitioner offices offering high median salaries5.

Experience, certification, and specialization affect salaries. Massage therapists work an average of 26.6 hours a week, offering flexibility5. Interestingly, 38% of them are self-employed, which can impact their earnings5.

Comparison with Other Healthcare Professions

Comparing massage therapist wages to other healthcare jobs is insightful. The massage therapy field is expected to grow by 17.7% by 2033, faster than many other jobs5. This growth indicates a rising demand for massage services, which could increase wages in the future.

State Average Annual Salary
New Jersey $76,199
Wyoming $75,647
Wisconsin $74,650
Florida $58,122
Arkansas $55,754
West Virginia $49,974

Salary Breakdown by State

As a massage therapist, I’ve seen big differences in pay across states. Let’s explore how location affects our earnings.

Highest Paying States

Alaska is the highest paying state for massage therapists, with an average salary of $77,0806. Vermont and Washington also offer good salaries, at $78,190 and $72,560 respectively7. These figures show the chance for a high massage therapist annual income in some areas.

Cost of Living Considerations

High salaries are tempting, but living costs matter too. For example, Alaska’s high wages might be balanced by its high living costs. On the other hand, states like Nebraska have seen a 66.5% increase in massage therapist salaries, from $31,420 in 2014 to $52,320 in 20196.

Salary Variations Among States

Massage therapist pay varies a lot across the country. Some states pay well, while others don’t. For instance, Louisiana has the lowest average salary at $39,930, followed by Arkansas at $38,2307. The national average is $47,180, which is lower than the average for all jobs at $53,4906.

State Average Annual Salary Hourly Rate
Alaska $77,080 $37.06
Vermont $78,190 $37.59
Washington $72,560 $34.88
Louisiana $39,930 $19.20
National Average $47,180 $22.68

The massage therapist hourly rate also changes based on location and industry. The national average is $27.43, but some industries pay up to $45.40 per hour7. Knowing these differences helps us choose where to work and how to earn more.

Benefits and Perks of Being a Massage Therapist

Being a massage therapist is more than just a job. It offers a growing field with a 18% increase in demand from 2022 to 20328. This means more job security and chances to earn well.

Common Employee Benefits

Massage therapists in jobs often get benefits like health insurance and retirement plans. They also get paid time off. These perks can really boost their earnings.

Freelance vs. Employed Benefits

As a freelancer, I can choose my schedule and work place9. This freedom helps me manage my life better. Freelancers also get tax breaks, which can increase their income.

Employed Benefits Freelance Benefits
Steady paycheck Flexible schedule
Health insurance Higher earning potential
Retirement plans Tax deductions
Paid time off Choice of work environment

Continuing Education Opportunities

The massage field offers many chances to grow professionally. By focusing on sports massage, I can earn more8. Learning more also makes my job more interesting and rewarding.

Massage therapists earn between $42,820 and $78,280 a year10. With the field growing and being flexible, it’s a great career for those who love helping others.

Active vs. Passive Income Streams

As a massage therapist, I’ve learned that having different income sources is key to success. Let’s look at how we can increase our earnings in this field.

Income from Massage Sessions

The main way massage therapists make money is through hands-on sessions. In the U.S., the average yearly salary is about $47,18011. By changing our rates and how often we work, we can make more money. For instance, if we charge $75 per session and work 5.3 times a day, we could make almost $100,000 a year11.

Additional Income Opportunities

There are many ways to make extra money besides our main massage work:

  • Blogging: A good blog can make over $1,000 a month12.
  • YouTube: A successful massage therapy channel can earn more than $1,000 monthly12.
  • Podcasting: With the right strategy, podcasting can make over $6,000 a month12.
  • eBooks and Affiliate Marketing: These can be very profitable12.

Importance of Client Retention

Keeping a steady client base is key for consistent income. The pay for massage therapists can change based on experience, specialty, and client base13. By focusing on keeping clients, we can ensure steady income and possibly earn more over time.

Session Rate Daily Sessions Annual Income
$75 5.3 $100,000
$100 4.0 $100,800
$150 2.6 $99,750
$200 2.0 $100,000

By mixing active and passive income, we can boost our earnings in massage therapy. The goal is to find a balance that fits our goals and lifestyle.

Work Environment and Its Impact on Earnings

The work environment greatly affects a massage therapist’s income. Different settings can change how much they earn each year and per hour.

Spa vs. Clinic Settings

Spas usually pay less but offer more chances for tips. Clinics, on the other hand, have steady salaries and benefits. In the U.S., massage therapists earn a median of $49,860 yearly. The top 10% make over $80,00014.

Trends in Mobile Massage Services

Mobile massage services are becoming more popular. They offer flexible earnings. In 2023, about half of massage therapists worked for themselves14. This trend lets them set their own rates and earn more.

Commission Structures in Large Facilities

Big facilities often use commission-based pay, taking 30-50% of the service cost. This can greatly affect a massage therapist’s earnings. Interestingly, 45% of people got massages at a therapist’s office, while 30% of women and 45% of men went to spas15.

Setting Percentage of Consumers Primary Motivation
Massage Therapist’s Office 45% Health and Wellness (42%)
Spa (Female Consumers) 30% Relaxation (51%)
Spa (Male Consumers) 45% Pampering (32%)

The work environment also influences who gets massages. People with higher incomes are more likely to get massages. For example, 39% of those earning $100,000 or more got a massage in the past year15. Knowing this can help therapists choose where to work to increase their earnings.

Experience Level and Its Influence on Salary

Experience is key in how much a massage therapist makes. As skills grow and more clients come, so does the chance for more money. Let’s look at how experience affects salaries at different career points.

Entry-Level Income Expectations

New massage therapists start with lower pay. Those with less than a year earn about $19.80 an hour16. This means they make around $37,000 a year17. Though it might seem low, it’s a good start for making more money later.

Mid-Career Earnings Potential

As therapists get more experience, they make more. Those with 1-4 years of experience earn about $23.84 an hour16. The median annual wage is $43,620, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics17. This shows a clear increase in income as they move up in their careers.

Earnings for Experienced Therapists

More experienced therapists can make a lot more. The top 10% earn over $79,000 a year17. Some can even make up to $130,000, especially if they specialize or have a big client base16. Self-employed therapists can charge up to $75 an hour, which boosts their earnings even more17.

Experience really matters in how much a massage therapist makes. From beginners to seasoned pros, there’s a lot of room for income growth. As they get better and build their reputation, their income will show their hard work and skill.

Certification and Specialization Effects

Certification and specialization can really boost a massage therapist’s pay. Let’s look at how these factors affect their earnings.

Popular Certifications

Many massage therapists get extra certifications to improve their skills and make more money. The National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB) offers a voluntary board certification. This requires ongoing education to keep the certification and show commitment to growing professionally18.

Some popular certifications include sports massage, deep tissue massage, and prenatal massage19.

Specialized Practices and Their Pay

Specializing in certain massage techniques can lead to higher pay. Acupressure, reflexology, and sports massage are examples of specialized practices that can earn more19. Massage therapists who focus on these areas often get a loyal client base. These clients are willing to pay more for the specialized skills.

Continuing Education’s Role in Income Growth

Continuing education is key for a massage therapist’s income growth. Most programs require 500 to 1,000 hours of study and hands-on experience19. Learning more expands skills and attracts more clients. For example, the Community College of Philadelphia offers a 604-hour Massage Therapy program. It’s accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, giving a strong base for career growth19.

Investing in education and specialization can greatly impact a massage therapist’s pay. With the industry expected to grow by 17.7% by 2032, there’s plenty of room for skilled professionals to boost their earnings18.

The Role of Location in Salary Discrepancies

Location is key in how much a massage therapist makes. Cities usually pay more because of high demand and costs of living. Let’s explore how location affects earnings in this field.

Urban vs. Rural Salaries

In cities, massage therapists can earn between $20 and $40 an hour. This is because of the high cost of living and demand20. In contrast, rural areas might pay less but have less competition. California has the most therapists, with Florida second, showing where demand is high21.

Impact of Tourist Areas

Tourist spots can greatly increase a massage therapist’s income. Hawaii, with its tourism, has a lot of therapists for its population. This suggests good earning potential21. Earnings can change with the seasons, peaking in December and dropping in summer21.

Local Demand for Massage Services

Local demand greatly affects earnings. For example, Kentucky’s massage therapy revenue grew a lot from 2018 to 2019 and even more from 2022 to 202321. This shows demand is rising in some places, offering better pay.

It’s important for massage therapists to understand these location-based factors. Whether they choose city or country life, or look at tourist areas, location greatly affects their pay and career.

Job Outlook for Massage Therapy

The massage therapy industry is booming, offering promising prospects for those considering this career. I’ve looked into the latest trends and statistics to give you a clear picture. This includes what to expect in terms of massage therapist salary and job growth.

Growth Projections in the Industry

The future looks bright for massage therapists. The profession is expected to grow by 21% between 2019-2029, much faster than the average for other industries22. This rapid growth means more massage therapy income and job opportunities.

In 2018, Americans had 214 million massages, up from 179 million in 201722. This increase in demand means higher earnings for massage therapists and a strong job market. The industry’s worth was estimated at $18 billion in 2018, showing its significant economic impact22.

New Trends Influencing Earnings

Emerging trends are changing the massage therapy landscape and affecting income. Massage therapists now offer sessions from 15 minutes to an hour, meeting different client needs23. This flexibility allows for varied pricing, potentially increasing earnings.

Specialization is another key trend. Therapists can focus on modalities like Swedish massage, deep-tissue massage, or sports massage23. Some even specialize in prenatal massage for pregnant women23. These niche services often have higher rates, positively impacting massage therapist salaries.

Impact of Economic Factors

The massage therapy field is resilient in economic fluctuations. With a low unemployment rate of 2.1% among massage therapists, the demand for skilled professionals remains high22. This job security contributes to stable massage therapy income.

The growing recognition of massage’s health benefits is also driving demand. About 40% of U.S. hospitals now offer massage therapy services, opening up new employment and income opportunities22. This integration into mainstream healthcare looks promising for long-term earnings potential in the field.

Aspect Impact on Earnings
Industry Growth Positive – 21% projected growth
Specialization Positive – Higher rates for niche services
Healthcare Integration Positive – New employment opportunities
Demand Positive – Low unemployment rate (2.1%)

Discussing Hourly vs. Salary Pay

Understanding the difference between hourly and salary pay is key for massage therapists. Let’s look at the different pay structures in the massage therapy world.

Benefits of Hourly Pay

Many massage therapists get paid by the hour. Their pay can range from $12.22 to $56.11 an hour, with an average of $19.7424. This pay structure lets them work flexible hours and earn more when it’s busy. Tips can also increase their earnings, adding $1.30 to $13.72 an hour24.

Salary Positions in the Industry

Though less common, salaried jobs offer stability and benefits. Some places like rehabilitation centers and physical therapy clinics pay between $60,000 and over $110,000 a year24. They also offer perks like 401K and health insurance. In 2022, the average salary for licensed massage therapists in the U.S. was $64,896, with some making up to $110,000 a year25.

Flexibility of Freelance Work

Freelance massage therapists can set their own rates and schedules. This can lead to higher earnings, especially in places like Seattle24. But, they have to handle their own business costs and taxes.

Pay Structure Pros Cons
Hourly Flexible, potential for tips Income may fluctuate
Salary Stable income, benefits Less flexibility
Freelance Control over rates, schedule Managing business aspects

Massage therapist wages vary a lot based on location, experience, and where they work. The industry is growing, with a 26% increase in jobs expected from 2019 to 202624. This growth means good opportunities for both hourly and salaried jobs.

Massage therapists have many paths to a fulfilling career, whether it’s hourly, salary, or freelance. It’s important to think about personal preferences, lifestyle, and financial goals when choosing a pay structure.

Resources for Salary Information

Staying updated on massage therapist salaries is key for career success. Let’s look at some great resources to understand our field’s financial side.

Websites for Salary Statistics

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics is a top source for salary info. They say massage therapist jobs will grow by 22%, showing a promising future2. For exact numbers, I check Salary.com or Glassdoor. These sites give details on massage therapist pay in various places.

Professional Associations and Organizations

The American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) is a great resource. They share that 88% of adults think massage can ease pain, showing our services’ demand2. AMTA also gives data like the average massage therapist works 26.6 hours a week and sees 46 clients monthly1.

Networking for Salary Insights

Talking to other professionals can give you real salary insights. I’ve found that certified massage therapists make about $33,139 a year, which is $7,000 more than non-certified ones1. Networking also shows trends, like nearly two-thirds of massage therapists getting tips 60% of the time1. These personal connections often share the latest and most accurate salary info.

FAQ

What is the average salary for massage therapists in the US?

Massage therapist salaries vary across the US. In Minneapolis-St. Paul, new graduates earn about ,000. Those with 10+ years make up to ,850. Location, work setting, and specialization also affect salaries.

Which states offer the highest pay for massage therapists?

Alaska leads with an average salary of ,625. Washington and Oregon follow with ,106 and ,000, respectively. South Carolina, Connecticut, and Alabama also offer high salaries. Remember, cost of living affects these figures.

How does experience level affect a massage therapist’s salary?

Experience greatly impacts salary. In Minneapolis-St. Paul, new therapists earn around ,000. With 10+ years, salaries can reach ,850 or more. Special skills and a strong client base can increase earnings further.

What benefits do massage therapists typically receive?

Employed massage therapists often get health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. Freelancers can deduct business expenses from taxes. Both paths offer chances for continuing education, which can raise earnings.

How do work environments impact a massage therapist’s earnings?

Work environments greatly affect earnings. Spas may offer lower base pay but more tips. Clinics provide stable salaries and benefits. Mobile services offer flexible earnings. In large facilities, commission rates range from 30-50%.

Can certifications and specializations increase a massage therapist’s income?

Yes! Certifications and specializations can significantly increase income. Popular ones include sports, medical, and prenatal massage. Specialized practices often charge more, and continuing education helps expand skills and attract clients.

What’s the job outlook for massage therapists?

The job outlook is excellent! The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 22% employment increase. Trends like massage for pain management are boosting our earnings.

How does location affect a massage therapist’s salary?

Location is key. Urban areas offer higher salaries due to demand and living costs. Tourist areas can also increase earnings, especially in peak seasons. Local demand greatly influences income.

What’s the difference between hourly and salary pay for massage therapists?

Hourly pay is common, ranging from to or more. Salaried positions offer more stability and benefits. Freelance work is flexible but requires managing business aspects.

Where can I find reliable salary information for massage therapists?

Check industry surveys and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Professional associations like the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) are also reliable. Networking with peers can provide insights into local rates and potential earnings.

Source Links

  1. How Much Does a Massage Therapist Make? (State-by-State) | Natural Healers – https://www.naturalhealers.com/massage-therapy/salary/
  2. Understanding a Massage Therapist Salary | NWHSU – https://www.nwhealth.edu/blog/massage-therapist-salary/
  3. Massage Therapist Salary, Hourly Rate (November, 2024) in the United States | Salary.com – https://www.salary.com/research/salary/benchmark/massage-therapist-salary
  4. How Much Do Massage Therapists Make? – https://www.aiam.edu/career-opportunities/how-much-massage-therapists-make/
  5. How Much Does a Massage Therapist Make? – https://www.allalliedhealthschools.com/massage-therapist/massage-therapy-salaries/
  6. Here’s How Much Money Massage Therapists Make In Every State – https://www.forbes.com/sites/andrewdepietro/2020/10/31/heres-how-much-money-massage-therapists-make-in-every-state/
  7. Exploring U.S. Wages for Massage Therapists – https://www.massageliabilityinsurancegroup.com/massage-therapist/career/salary/
  8. 10 Reasons To Train for a Career in Massage Therapy – https://www.concorde.edu/blog/10-reasons-train-career-massage-therapy
  9. 6 Reasons to Become a Massage Therapist – https://www.natural-therapy.com/blog/6-reasons-to-become-a-massage-therapist/
  10. The Benefits of Becoming a Massage Therapist – https://avedainstitutemd.edu/the-benefits-of-becoming-a-massage-therapist/
  11. Achieve a 6-Figure Income as a Massage Therapist – https://www.massageliabilityinsurancegroup.com/blog/how-to-achieve-a-6-figure-income-as-a-massage-therapist/
  12. 8 Passive Income Ideas For Massage Therapists – https://beginnerspassiveincome.com/passive-income-ideas-massage-therapists/
  13. How Much to Pay Massage Therapists as Independent Contractors: A Comprehensive Guide – Scaling Wellness – https://scalingwellness.com/how-much-to-pay-massage-therapists-as-independent-contractors-a-comprehensive-guide/
  14. Massage Therapist Salary: How Much Do They Really Make? – https://glossgenius.com/blog/how-much-do-massage-therapists-make
  15. Massage Therapy Industry Fact Sheet | AMTA – https://www.amtamassage.org/publications/massage-industry-fact-sheet/
  16. Massage Therapist – https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=Massage_Therapist/Hourly_Rate
  17. How Much Money You Can Make As A Massage Therapist – https://icohs.edu/how-much-money-can-i-make-as-a-massage-therapist/
  18. How to Become a Massage Therapist (and FAQ) | Natural Healers – https://www.naturalhealers.com/massage-therapy/
  19. Become a Licensed Massage Therapist – Training, Certification & Salary – https://www.healthcaredegree.com/physical/massage-therapist
  20. How Much Should You Pay Massage Therapists? A Guide for Massage Business Owners – Scaling Wellness – https://scalingwellness.com/how-much-should-you-pay-massage-therapists-as-employees-a-guide-for-massage-business-owners/
  21. Massage Therapy Statistics In The United States – https://massagestrong.com/massage-therapy-statistics-in-the-united-states/
  22. 16 Reasons Why Massage Therapy is a Great Career – MBLExGuide – https://mblexguide.com/reasons-massage-therapy-great-career/
  23. Massage Therapists: Salary, career path, job outlook, education and more – RaiseMe – https://www.raise.me/careers/healthcare/massage-therapists/
  24. Job Outlook for Massage Therapists 2019 – Discoverypoint School of Massage – https://discoverypointschoolofmassage.com/job-outlook-for-massage-therapists/
  25. How Much Is the Average Massage Therapist Salary? – https://crsmt.com/a-touch-of-costa-rica/what-is-a-massage-therapists-salary
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