How much does a Massage Therapist make?
Massage Therapists enjoy a rewarding career with a solid income. The average yearly salary for Massage Therapists is about $79,454. This career offers different pay levels based on experience and location. Starting out, some Massage Therapists make as little as $32,000 per year. As they gain more experience, the pay can go up to over $160,000 a year.
Several factors can affect a Massage Therapist's salary. These include the state they work in, the type of employer, and whether they specialize in a certain area of massage therapy. For example, those working in metropolitan areas often earn more than those in rural areas. Also, those who have their own practice can earn more than those who work for someone else. Specialization can also lead to higher salaries.
What are the highest paying cities for a Massage Therapist?

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Memphis, TN
Average Salary: $110,676
Job seekers in Memphis, Tennessee, can find rewarding opportunities in wellness centers and spas. Companies like Performance Health offer great benefits and professional growth. The city's vibrant culture makes it a welcoming place for therapists.
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Savannah, GA
Average Salary: $110,532
In Savannah, Georgia, massage therapists enjoy a blend of historical charm and modern amenities. Local clinics and wellness centers provide stable employment. The city's tourism industry often leads to high demand for massage services.
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Cedar Rapids, IA
Average Salary: $110,383
Cedar Rapids, Iowa, offers a friendly environment for massage therapists. Local businesses such as Massage Envy and Aspen Dental provide career stability and growth opportunities. The community support makes it a great place to work.
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Bend, OR
Average Salary: $109,127
Bend, Oregon, is a haven for nature lovers. Local spas and wellness centers hire therapists who enjoy outdoor activities. The city's focus on health and wellness creates a strong job market for massage professionals.
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Fayetteville, AR
Average Salary: $107,656
Fayetteville, Arkansas, provides a balanced lifestyle for massage therapists. Local companies like Anytime Fitness and Massage Heights offer competitive salaries. The city's warm community makes it a pleasant place to live and work.
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New Haven, CT
Average Salary: $107,031
New Haven, Connecticut, has a rich job market for massage therapists. Clinics and wellness centers in the area provide diverse opportunities. The city’s strong healthcare system supports professional growth and development.
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Anchorage, AK
Average Salary: $104,710
Anchorage, Alaska, offers unique experiences for massage therapists. Local spas and wellness centers thrive on the city's adventurous spirit. The demand for relaxation services is high, providing excellent job prospects.
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Hartford, CT
Average Salary: $103,733
Hartford, Connecticut, provides diverse job opportunities for massage therapists. Clinics and wellness centers value skilled professionals. The city's commitment to healthcare supports a growing demand for massage services.
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Birmingham, AL
Average Salary: $101,668
Birmingham, Alabama, is a dynamic city for massage therapists. Local businesses like Massage Envy offer stable employment. The city’s growing wellness industry ensures a steady job market.
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Abilene, TX
Average Salary: $101,000
Abilene, Texas, offers a welcoming environment for massage therapists. Local spas and wellness centers provide excellent job opportunities. The city’s strong community support makes it a great place to work and live.
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What are the best companies a Massage Therapist can work for?

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Exhale Spa
Average Salary: $154,462
Exhale Spa offers a rewarding environment for Massage Therapists. The company operates luxury spas in major cities, providing high-quality services. Therapists here benefit from ongoing training and professional development.
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Zeel
Average Salary: $147,405
Zeel provides flexible and well-paid positions for Massage Therapists. They serve various locations nationwide, focusing on in-home and in-office massages. Therapists enjoy competitive salaries and a supportive work culture.
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Soothe Inc
Average Salary: $122,029
Soothe Inc is known for its comprehensive benefits and high earnings for Massage Therapists. They operate in urban areas, offering a mix of in-office and mobile massage services. Their focus on client satisfaction drives a positive work atmosphere.
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Healthy Measures LLC
Average Salary: $114,615
Healthy Measures LLC provides a stable and profitable environment for Massage Therapists. They have multiple locations in suburban and urban settings, offering both wellness and rehabilitation services.
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One Spa World
Average Salary: $109,305
One Spa World offers rewarding opportunities for Massage Therapists across several locations. They provide a blend of traditional and modern spa services, ensuring a dynamic and engaging work experience.
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SUPERIOR HOSPICE
Average Salary: $104,375
SUPERIOR HOSPICE offers a respectful and well-compensated role for Massage Therapists. They provide services in healthcare settings, focusing on patient comfort and well-being.
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Squeeze Massage
Average Salary: $100,032
Squeeze Massage is known for its engaging and profitable positions for Massage Therapists. They operate multiple locations, offering both in-office and mobile massage services.
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Spavia Day Spa
Average Salary: $98,935
Spavia Day Spa provides a serene and well-paid environment for Massage Therapists. They offer a variety of services in tranquil, luxurious settings. Therapists here enjoy a peaceful work environment.
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Harmony Massage
Average Salary: $97,500
Harmony Massage offers a positive and rewarding work experience for Massage Therapists. They focus on providing high-quality services in a friendly and professional atmosphere.
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Burke Williams
Average Salary: $95,129
Burke Williams offers a variety of opportunities for Massage Therapists. They operate in multiple locations, providing a mix of spa and clinical services. Therapists benefit from a supportive and educational work environment.
How to earn more as a Massage Therapist?
A massage therapist can increase their earnings through various means. One effective way is by gaining additional certifications. These credentials allow therapists to offer specialized services such as sports massage, hot stone therapy, or prenatal massage, which often come with higher rates. Another method involves expanding one's clientele by marketing skills effectively, whether through social media, local advertising, or networking at health and wellness events. Building a strong reputation and word-of-mouth referrals also plays a significant role in attracting more clients willing to pay premium prices for quality service.
Location can greatly impact a massage therapist's earnings. Working in areas with higher living costs, such as urban centers, typically allows therapists to charge more. Additionally, offering flexible scheduling, such as evening and weekend appointments, can attract clients who may pay a premium for convenient times. Finally, providing a high-quality, personalized experience helps ensure client satisfaction and repeat business, which can lead to a steady stream of referrals and new clients willing to pay a higher fee for exceptional service.
A massage therapist can leverage the following factors to increase earnings:
- Obtain additional certifications for specialized services.
- Expand marketing efforts to attract a broader client base.
- Work in high-demand areas with higher living costs.
- Offer flexible scheduling options to meet client needs.
- Deliver personalized and high-quality services to enhance client satisfaction.



