FAQ
Massage Therapist FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a massage therapist.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a massage therapist: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about massage therapists
How long is massage school?
Often 6 to 12 months.
Is massage therapy growing?
Yes. BLS projects much faster than average growth.
What is the MBLEx?
The national licensing exam used by most states.
How much does a massage therapist make?
The median annual wage for massage therapists was $58,450 ($28.10 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $33,640 and the highest 10% earned more than $100,200.
How long does it take to become a massage therapist?
Most people need about 6–12 months of training. Most states require completion of an approved massage therapy program, often 500 hours or more, plus the MBLEx exam and a state license.
Do you need a degree to be a massage therapist?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “postsecondary nondegree award” as the typical entry-level education.
Is massage therapist a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +15.3% from 2025–35 (much faster than average), with about 20,400 openings each year. Upsides include fast-growing field; a common challenge is that physically demanding.
What skills does a massage therapist need?
Key technical skills include massage techniques, anatomy and physiology, client assessment, and contraindications. Employers also value empathy, communication, and professional boundaries.
What certifications are available for massage therapists?
Common credentials include State massage therapy license, MBLEx, NCBTMB Board Certification, and Specialty certifications. Most states require massage therapists to be licensed after an approved program and the MBLEx; some cities also regulate massage.
Still deciding?
Try the Massage Therapist fit quiz, compare with Physical Therapist Assistant, or explore Massage Therapist training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 31-9011 (Massage therapists).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Massage therapists (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.