Summary
![massage therapists image](/https/www.bls.gov/ooh/images/15365.jpg)
Quick Facts: Massage Therapists | |
---|---|
2023 Median Pay |
$55,310 per year
$26.59 per hour |
Typical Entry-Level Education | Postsecondary nondegree award |
Work Experience in a Related Occupation | None |
On-the-job Training | None |
Number of Jobs, 2022 | 134,300 |
Job Outlook, 2022-32 | 18% (Much faster than average) |
Employment Change, 2022-32 | 24,600 |
What Massage Therapists Do
Massage therapists treat clients by applying pressure to manipulate the body's soft tissues and joints.
Work Environment
Massage therapists work in an array of settings, such as spas and offices of other health practitioners. Some also travel to local events, clients’ homes, or other sites. Part-time work is common, and work schedules may vary. Many massage therapists are self-employed.
How to Become a Massage Therapist
Massage therapists typically complete a postsecondary education that combines study and experience, although standards and requirements vary by state. Most states regulate massage therapy and require massage therapists to have a license or certification.
Pay
The median annual wage for massage therapists was $55,310 in May 2023.
Job Outlook
Employment of massage therapists is projected to grow 18 percent from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.
About 22,000 openings for massage therapists are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.
State & Area Data
Explore resources for employment and wages by state and area for massage therapists.
Similar Occupations
Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of massage therapists with similar occupations.
More Information, Including Links to O*NET
Learn more about massage therapists by visiting additional resources, including O*NET, a source on key characteristics of workers and occupations.