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Writer's pictureNicco Castell

How Much Do Massage Therapists Make? A Detailed Look at Earnings in the Massage Industry

Updated: 6 days ago

Massage therapy is a rewarding career, offering flexibility, personal interaction, and the opportunity to promote health and wellness. But how much do massage therapists actually make? This blog post dives into the various factors that influence a massage therapist’s income, including hourly wages, tips, geographic location, work setting, and specialization.

how much do massage therapists make

1. Average Salary of Massage Therapists


The average salary for massage therapists can vary widely depending on a number of factors. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual estimated wage for massage therapists was 2022 is around $49,000, or about $23.56 per hour. However, actual earnings can differ based on experience, location, and workplace.


Massage therapists can be paid on an hourly basis, earn a salary, or be compensated through a combination of hourly wages and tips, especially in spa settings.


2. Factors That Affect a Massage Therapist's Income


While the national average provides a general sense of what massage therapists earn, there are several factors that can significantly influence individual earnings:


a. Geographic Location


Where a massage therapist works can heavily influence their earnings. For example, massage therapists working in metropolitan areas or regions with a higher cost of living tend to earn more than those in rural areas.


High-Paying States: States like California, New York, and Massachusetts tend to offer higher salaries due to demand and cost of living. In these states, therapists can earn well over $60,000 annually.


Lower-Paying States: States with a lower cost of living, such as Alabama or Mississippi, may offer lower salaries, with average earnings closer to $30,000 annually.


b. Type of Work Setting


The workplace can greatly affect how much a massage therapist makes. Some common work settings include:


Day Spas and Resorts: These environments often offer lower hourly wages but provide the opportunity to earn substantial tips, which can significantly increase total income.


Medical Settings: Massage therapists who work in physical therapy clinics, hospitals, or chiropractic offices tend to earn higher hourly wages but may receive fewer tips.


Self-Employment: Many massage therapists choose to work for themselves, renting or owning a space, or providing mobile services. While this offers greater control over rates, it also comes with additional responsibilities like marketing, booking, and covering overhead costs. Self-employed therapists often charge higher rates to account for these expenses.


c. Experience Level


Just like many professions, experience plays a crucial role in determining a massage therapist’s earnings. An entry-level therapist may start at a lower hourly rate, while those with several years of experience and a strong client base can command higher fees. Experienced therapists may also specialize in certain techniques, like sports massage or deep tissue massage, which are often priced higher.


3. Specializations and Certifications


Massage therapists with additional certifications or specializations can earn more than general practitioners. Here are some in-demand specializations that can boost income:


Sports Massage: Often used by athletes, sports massage requires advanced knowledge of muscle function and injury prevention, allowing therapists to charge premium rates.


Medical Massage: Working in clinical settings or with clients recovering from injuries, medical massage therapists are often paid more due to their specialized knowledge.


Prenatal and Postnatal Massage: These therapists work with pregnant women and new mothers, offering targeted massage therapy to ease discomfort and support recovery.


Lymphatic Drainage and Cupping Therapy: Therapists who offer niche services like cupping therapy or lymphatic drainage tend to attract clients looking for specific health benefits, allowing them to charge higher rates for these specialized techniques.


4. How Tips Influence Earnings


Tips are a significant part of many massage therapists’ incomes, particularly those who work in spas or salons. In the U.S., tips for massage therapists generally range from 15-20% of the service cost, though exceptional service can warrant even more.


For example:


60-Minute Massage: If the massage costs $100, a 15-20% tip would add $15-$20 to the therapist’s earnings.


Luxury Spas: In high-end environments, therapists might receive larger tips, sometimes $30 or more, which can substantially increase their overall income.


Because tips aren’t guaranteed, it’s important for therapists to balance their reliance on gratuities with earning potential from hourly wages or salary.


5. Hourly vs. Salary vs. Commission-Based Pay


Massage therapists can be paid in different ways, and the payment structure directly impacts how much they make:


Hourly Wage


Therapists who work in spas, resorts, or clinics are often paid an hourly wage. This wage can range from $15 to $30 per hour depending on location, experience, and the type of establishment. The ability to earn tips can make an hourly job quite lucrative.


Salary


Some massage therapists, especially those working in medical settings or wellness centers, may receive a salary. Salaried positions provide stability and benefits like health insurance but often don’t offer the same earning potential through tips.


Commission-Based Pay


In commission-based roles, therapists earn a percentage of the fee charged for each service. Commission rates typically range from 40-60% of the service price. For example, if a massage costs $100 and the therapist receives a 50% commission, they would earn $50 per session. Tips can add to this amount, but the therapist must often perform multiple services per day to earn a sustainable income.


6. Income Potential for Self-Employed Massage Therapists


Massage therapists who are self-employed or run their own business have the potential to earn more, but they also face additional responsibilities. They can set their own rates, often charging $70-$150 per hour, depending on their location, reputation, and services offered. However, self-employed therapists must cover overhead costs like rent, equipment, supplies, and marketing.


For example:


Mobile Therapists: Those who travel to clients’ homes may charge more for convenience, but must also consider transportation costs.


Renting a Space: Therapists renting space in a wellness center or spa typically pay a fee for use of the space but keep the majority of their earnings from clients.


While self-employment offers greater earning potential, it also requires strong business skills and the ability to manage a steady flow of clients.


7. Career Growth and Long-Term Income Potential


Massage therapy can offer significant opportunities for career growth. As therapists gain experience, build a loyal client base, and continue to develop specialized skills, their earnings can increase dramatically. In some cases, experienced therapists can earn over $70,000 per year, especially in high-demand areas or with a specialized focus.


Additionally, some therapists expand their careers by teaching at massage schools, developing wellness programs, or opening their own spas or clinics, further boosting their income potential.


Conclusion


Massage therapy offers a flexible and rewarding career with a range of income possibilities. From entry-level positions to self-employment and specialization, massage therapists can shape their career path to maximize both satisfaction and earnings. Whether earning hourly wages, tips, or setting your own rates, the potential for growth in this industry is vast, with the right balance of experience, expertise, and business acumen.


If you're considering a career in massage therapy, understanding the factors that influence income, such as geographic location, work setting, and specialization, will help you make informed decisions and set realistic expectations for your financial future.

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