Massage Therapy--Career Opportunities

An increasing concern for total health and wellness, coupled with an expanding public interest in alternative therapies, has spurred significant growth in the field of massage therapy. Contributing to this growth is the fact that many insurance companies are integrating massage therapy into their coverage. Analysis from the Bureau of Labor Statistics 2006 numbers projects that the massage therapy industry will grow faster than average through 2014.

While a number of full-time practitioners earn $40,000 to $60,000 per year, according to the Association of Bodywork and Massage Professionals, many therapists choose to pursue massage as a part-time vocation. As a result, most work fewer than 40 hours a week with a median income of under $20,000. Massage therapists charge between $25 and $110 an hour for their services, depending on what part of the country they practice in the setting, with most charging an average of $50 to $60 an hour for their services.