Massage Pay Rates
Question:I am wondering how much massage studios pay new graduates? Also how much room for career growth is there in the massage business?
This is a very common massage question. There are many variables to the massage occupation, for example:
Massage therapists with their own facilities usually earn the most and have the most responsibility - including building and maintaining a sufficient clientele. The massage therapist who works for an hourly wage generally earns the least.
Starting out as a Registered Massage Therapist can be tough. You have to market yourself and develop a name and reputation. Independent contractors working in a clinical setting commonly split their fees on a percentage basis to cover the services provided - such as work space rental, receptionist, supplies (oils, linens, etc.) and equipment (massage table, stools, chairs, etc.).
The first year working as a massage therapist is usually the toughest; however, if you can make it through it gets much easier once you've established a name for yourself.
A massage therapist working in a large to mid-sized city can charge anywhere from $65 to $75 an hour. In rural communities the rate is lower at $40 to $50 per hour. Practitioners working for an hourly wage may earn less; however, they don't have overhead expenses.
Due to the physical and emotional demands of massage therapy, massage therapists generally work less than 35 hours a week - though each individual's capacity will vary. Thus, a large percentage of therapists practice part-time, generally less than 10 hours a week.
Self-employed massage therapists are at the top of their game. They determine how far they want to go in the business. Branching out clinics, hiring staff and other Massage Therapists, or hiring other types of practitioners is determined by you and your commitment to your career.
There is additional information on the Massage Therapy 101 website, please check it out!
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