Massage Therapist Salary
Estimated Pay by Experience Level
Salary by State
Median annual| State | Median / yr | Relative pay |
|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $70,652 | |
| Massachusetts | $68,483 | |
| Washington | $64,796 | |
| Alaska | $63,853 | |
| New York | $63,467 | |
| California | $63,060 | |
| Colorado | $62,674 | |
| Connecticut | $62,065 | |
| National Median | $55,310 |
How to Become a Massage Therapist
Massage therapists treat clients by manipulating muscles and soft tissues with their hands to relieve pain, reduce stress, and improve wellness.
Meet the education requirement
Most massage therapists enter the field with postsecondary certificate. Programs are offered by community colleges, trade schools, and universities.
Complete an accredited training program
Hands-on coursework and clinical or field experience prepare you for the work and for certification exams.
Earn the State massage license (MBLEx)
Most employers expect this credential — and in many states it's required to practice. Entry pay starts near $36,505 and rises toward $80,753 with experience.
Massage Therapist salary: common questions
How much does a Massage Therapist make an hour?
The median hourly wage for massage therapists is $26.59, which works out to about $55,310 per year for full-time work.
Which state pays massage therapists the most?
District of Columbia has the highest median pay for massage therapists at $70,652 per year — 28% above the national median of $55,310.
What is the salary range for massage therapists?
Most massage therapists earn between $36,505 and $80,753 per year. The middle 50% earn $44,801 to $68,584, with a median of $55,310.
Is becoming a Massage Therapist a good career?
Employment is projected to grow 18% (much faster than average), and the role typically requires postsecondary certificate. With a median wage of $55,310 per year, it pays well above the U.S. median for all occupations.