Highest Paid Massage Therapy Jobs

Massage therapy jobs pay according to the geographic location, level of training, work environment, and years of experience. Massage therapy jobs range from spa-type settings to therapeutic occupations, and offer opportunities to open a private practice to becoming an employee in an existing company. But, what is the highest paid massage therapy job?

Massage Therapy Job Pay Factors

There are many factors that contribute to a massage therapy job salary. Pay can include commissions, tips, and hourly rates if working for an employer. For self-employed massage therapists, income is higher, although overhead costs such as facilities and lubricants factor into the net pay.

For those opting to work for an employer, work environments can include the spa, chiropractic, health club, resort, salons, rehabilitation centers, stress reduction centers, hospitals, and corporate settings. Most people launching a career in the massage therapy industry first work for an employer to gain experience, build clientele, and learn the ropes before venturing out on their own.

Highest Paid Massage Therapy Job

Some of the highest paid massage therapy jobs include:

• Self-employed Licensed Massage Therapist – Overhead costs will reduce net pay, but overall, the highest paid massage therapy job is self-employment. Average massage therapy sessions are billed at an average of $40 to $75 an hour or more, in which a massage therapist working for himself or herself would receive in full.
• Reflexology specialist – At an average pay of $27 per hour, a Reflexology Specialist is on average the highest paid massage therapy job for those looking to work for an employer. This technique uses gentle pressure on the hands and feet based on zones to improve corresponding organs and body parts.
• Physical Therapist Assistant – Work under the direction of a physical therapist to provide treatment to help patients regain physical function or experience pain reduction under this career option. Physical Therapist Assistants average about $28 per hour.
• Massage Therapy Instructor – For those who are looking for a career in the massage therapy industry and want to inspire others and help them tap into their people skills, he or she can get back into the classroom as a massage therapy instructor. These educators earn an average hourly rate of $22 in this line of work.
• Sports Massage therapist – A massage therapist specializing in sports massage would work in an athletic environment, such as before, during, or after a sports event. A form of athletic rehabilitation, this job pays an average of $21 per hour.