Salary of Massage Therapist Overview

What is A massage therapist?

Using their unique set of tools – “magic hands” and “magic touch”, massage therapists relieve pain, reduce stress, loosen tight muscles and simply make people feel better. With more than 80 types of treatments, massage therapists have a variety of ways to provide this relief. Massage therapists can specialize in deep tissue, acupressure, reflexology, orthopedics, sports massage, and other fields. Often, massage therapists specialize in several modalities, all of which require specific skills and techniques.

The length and type of massage provided usually depends on the conditions and wishes of the client. Elderly clients, pregnant women, and those recovering from a severe injury typically receive different treatments than elite athletes or those simply seeking relaxation. The nature of the massage is often discussed and agreed upon during a short interview with the client before it is performed.

Massage therapists work for employers in a variety of settings, including spas and hospitals, and some start their own small businesses. Regardless of the working arrangement, massage therapists must be friendly and personable to attract a steady client base. Want a job that is more about making people feel better? Consider becoming a massage therapist.

The increase in the number of spas and massage clinics in recent years emphasizes the growing demand for massage services.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment growth of 32.2 percent for massage therapists between 2020 and 2030. During that period, an estimated 46,500 jobs will be created.

How much does a massage therapist earn?

The median salary for massage therapists in 2020 was $43,620. The top 25 percent earned $59,790 that year, while the lowest paid 25 percent earned $30,010.

How to become A massage therapist?

Requirements and standards vary greatly by state. To become licensed, most states require massage therapists to complete a formal training program and pass an exam. Some programs may focus on specific massage specialties, while others provide an overview of the field and include classes in anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology.

For students who plan to start their own business, it is recommended to take some business courses. Marilyn Kier, a self-employed massage therapist in the Chicago area, says additional business training is important because starting and running a business requires a skill set not covered in most programs.

Many states also require massage therapists to enroll in continuing education courses and renew their licenses regularly.

Job Satisfaction

The average American works well into their 60s, so workers may have an enjoyable and fulfilling career. A job with a low stress level, good work-life balance, and strong prospects for improvement, promotion, and higher pay make many employees happy. Here’s how Massage therapists Job satisfaction is rated in terms of upward mobility, stress level and flexibility.