Massage Therapist Salary: Averages and Top States
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Massage therapists in the United States earn an average annual salary of $62,560, according to recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. With over 92,000 professionals employed in this field, massage therapy continues to be a growing and rewarding career choice for those interested in health care and wellness.
These skilled practitioners use their hands to manipulate muscles and soft tissues, helping clients relieve pain, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. Massage therapists work in various settings, from spas and health clubs to medical offices and private practices. In this article, we'll dive deeper into the world of massage therapy, exploring how salaries and job opportunities vary across different locations. We'll also compare this profession to similar roles in the health care and wellness industries, providing valuable insights for those considering a career in massage therapy or looking to advance their current position.
Highest Paying States for Massage Therapists
Massage therapists seeking the highest compensation in their field should consider opportunities in Alaska, where the average annual salary reaches $100,670, with an hourly mean wage of $48.40. Although Alaska employs a relatively small number of massage therapists, with 420 positions, it stands out as the top-paying state for this occupation.
Other states offering competitive salaries include:
- Vermont: With an average annual salary of $86,740 and an hourly wage of $41.70. The state employs 120 massage therapists.
- Washington: The average annual salary is $80,960, complemented by an hourly wage of $38.93. Employment opportunities are more abundant, with 3,510 positions available.
- Oregon and New Hampshire: These states also rank high, offering average annual salaries of $76,600 and $72,970, respectively. Oregon employs 2,320 massage therapists, while New Hampshire has 180 positions.
These states not only provide attractive salary packages but also offer varying levels of employment opportunities, catering to both those seeking a high-paying position and those looking for a larger job market.
Comparing Salaries in Therapeutic Support Careers
When looking at salaries for therapeutic support careers, physical therapist assistants tend to earn more compared to massage therapists and physical therapist aides. According to the latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), physical therapist assistants have an average annual salary of $65,860, which translates to an hourly wage of about $31.66. This is the highest among the three professions analyzed.
Massage therapists come in next with an average annual salary of $62,560, or $30.08 per hour. Meanwhile, physical therapist aides earn significantly less, with an average annual salary of $34,810 and an hourly wage of $16.74. It's also important to note that the total number of employed physical therapist assistants is the highest at 104,000, compared to 92,650 massage therapists and 42,390 physical therapist aides. This information highlights the varying income levels and employment opportunities available in these health care support roles.
Bottom Line
For those considering a career in massage therapy, the field offers promising opportunities and competitive salaries in the health care and wellness industry. With an average annual salary of $62,560, massage therapists have the potential to earn a rewarding income while aiding clients in relieving pain, reducing stress, and enhancing overall well-being. Here’s what you need to know:
- Employment Opportunities: Over 92,000 massage therapists are employed in the United States, working in diverse environments such as spas, health clubs, medical offices, and private practices.
- Salary Variations by Location: States like Alaska, Vermont, and Washington offer some of the highest salaries, with Alaska leading at $100,670 annually. These locations provide both attractive salary packages and varied employment opportunities.
- Comparative Salaries: When compared to other therapeutic support careers, such as physical therapist assistants and aides, massage therapists earn a respectable income, albeit slightly less than physical therapist assistants, who average $65,860 annually.
Pursuing a career as a massage therapist can be a fulfilling choice for those passionate about health care and wellness, offering both personal satisfaction and financial stability.