Rates and Massage Tips

Rates and massage tips are determined by the types of massage the therapist provides, the location of the service, and the experience level of the therapist.

Rates

Rates are typically $1 per minute, averaging $50-$80 per hour. Many services can even be higher if it is an advanced type of bodywork therapy, which has required specialized training by the therapist and/or clinic you are visiting.

You can also expect to pay higher rates for massage therapy (as well as massage tips) in larger cities, in a popular vacation destination, in a resort spa, on a cruise ship, and on remote island destinations.

Spa services can also be costly. Scrubs, wraps, even hot stone massage can be well over $100 per hour, with basic relaxation or Swedish massage running $60-$80 per hour.

A massage therapist salary is determined by the rate they charge clients, or the hourly rate they are paid by the spa, clinic, or resort where they work. However, keep in mind, therapists must pay hefty fees for license renewal, malpractice insurance, and business license fees and expenses.

Salaries for those who work at spas, clinics, or resorts are typically lower than a private practice therapist, because a private practice therapist makes the entire amount you pay, without having to share with the spa or pay rental fees for the room.

Cheaper rates for massage can be found:

  • In some eastern countries like China and Thailand, however many destinations in India, either spa or resort are quite pricey.
  • at massage therapy schools. Typically, rates for relaxation massage are around $25-$30 per hour!
  • With a newly licensed therapist - often they are happy to get work and will offer low cost massage rates to build business. Call a massage school to get the name of a newly licensed therapist in your area or look on your state website for names and telephone numbers.
  • Sign up for mailing lists with therapists. Many times they sent out social media or email notices about specials, or last minute openings, and the discounts can be steep.

You might also be interested in reading more about massage etiquette in the industry, what are appropriate social manners, and what to expect in various massage therapy offices.

Tipping

Tips are often optional, especially private practice, however, they are a great way to help a therapist know that they helped you relax or helped your pain level to lessen.

But, how much should you tip and does it matter what amount you leave?

Tipping etiquette in massage therapy is slightly higher than etiquette for servers in restaurants and hairdressers, as the profession falls under "healthcare provider", rather that "service provider".

Some things to consider:

Massage tips are often based on how relaxing the massage was

  • Did the therapist do everything in their power to ensure quiet and peace? Did he/she limit any/all other noises, voices and sounds from the area of the massage room? If the spa,/salon is small, there will be some noise.
  • Was the music soft, slow and without lots of vocal distraction? Words sometimes tend to evoke emotions, which may be what you are trying to avoid and/or have a break from.
  • Was the the lighting in the room dim? Was eye pillows used to make sure there is no light in your eyes?
  • Were the colors in the room (paint, decor, etc.)neutral? Warm blue, green or beige colors are usually best! Brighter colors tend to make us excited rather than relaxed.
  • Was the furniture comfortable and easy to get into and out of?
  • Are the licenses, certificates, diplomas, or degrees hanging up. This ensures the therapist is qualified to provide the treatment you are looking for.

    Massage Tips are also based on "Information", and in turn, how comfortable you are made to feel

    • Did the therapist discuss issues that you addressed on an intake form?
    • Did the therapist ask if you liked the music? OR If you would you like a candle to burn with aromatherapy fragrances?
    • Did he/she discuss the use of essential oils?
    • Did he/she encourage you to tell him/her if the massage is painful?
    • Did he/she talk about how to undress (to your comfort level), where to place your clothes and explain that they leave the room while you undress?
    • Did the therapist discuss their routine of massage, where they start, where they move from there and how the massage will end?
    • Did they talk about gratuity and tell you to make your own decision about tipping and how much? Or, do they have a small framed sign that discusses tipping?


    • You can also leave massage tips based on the whole experience...atmosphere, therapist, comfort, technique and other staff that interacted with you, making your day one that you will always remember, and ensuring your return!

    Go back to Massage Education Guide Homepage from Massage Tips

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