Working as a massage therapist can provide a comfortable living. Many therapists work part-time on the evenings and weekends, leaving open the opportunity for massage therapy to exist as a lucrative second income or as a sustainable income as a part-time job. According the the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for a massage therapist is $16.76 per hour with those in the lowest 10% earning $7.69 an hour and those in the highest 10% earning $34.06 an hour.

Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook 2008-2009 states that an estimated 200,000 people work as a massage therapist in some capacity, with 64 percent being self-employed. This resource also estimates that the career field will continue to grow at a faster than average rate over the next several years with very good opportunities for massage therapists, especially those looking for part-time work.

With such a range of salaries, it will be easier for you to predict your potential earnings by taking into consideration several factors. Typically, massage therapists working in urban areas make much more than massage therapists working in rural areas. Self-employed massage therapists typically make more per hour than massage therapists employed by someone else. However, self-employed massage therapists also have other expenses to consider such as taxes, rent, laundering of linens, and advertising/marketing. Massage therapists employed at a salon, spa, resort, cruise line, or similar location can usually expect to receive tips on top of their hourly rate whereas therapists in clinical settings such as rehabilitation clinics and chiropractor’s offices cannot expect to receive tips. Additionally, working as a massage therapist can be both physically and emotionally taxing, so it is rare to find a massage therapist who works more than 35 hours a week. The number of hours you can work will affect how much you make.

In addition to these factors, the amount of time you have worked as a massage therapist will also affect your earning potential. When you are first starting out, you may need to repay any loans you took out for your training and education. You will also likely need to purchase several items to use in your practice such as a massage table or chair, linens, massage oils, a massage oil holster, and any materials for ambiance such as soothing music CDs and aromatherapy candles. Getting started in your career as a massage therapist may cost more in the beginning than once you are more established. Also, as you work longer as a massage therapist, you will gain experience that will improve your technique and build relationships with clients. Both of these factors will help you make more money as you become more established.

While working as a massage therapist has potential for monetary gain and a comfortable existence, it is important to remember that one reason you decided to become a massage therapist was likely to help others. Focusing on how you can provide an important service to your client while helping create a sense of community will probably take you further in your career than focusing on how much money you can put in the bank each week. You have the unique ability in your career as a massage therapist to help others feel good both mentally and physically while providing yourself a sense of accomplishment while making a difference.