Massage Therapists Salary in New York, NY-NJ
BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ
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In New York-NJ, massage therapists earn a median annual salary of $57,660, which is slightly below the national median of $57,950 for the occupation. This local median hourly rate stands at $27.72. When comparing these earnings to the area's median household income of $97,334, it becomes evident that massage therapists typically earn less than half of what a typical household in this region earns annually. The discrepancy highlights the varying financial landscapes between individual professions and broader regional economic metrics, emphasizing how specialized careers may not always align with general household earning trends.
Entry-level massage therapists in New York-NJ tend to earn around $35,360 per year, which is at the 10th percentile of earnings for the occupation. In contrast, more experienced practitioners can expect salaries near the 90th percentile, reaching up to $98,030 annually. This significant salary variation reflects several factors including experience level, client base, and possibly specialization within the field. Additionally, differences in work settings—such as private practice versus spa employment—can influence compensation. The disparity underscores how career progression and professional development can substantially impact earnings potential in this profession.
Salary percentile breakdown
New York economic context
Frequently asked questions
How much do Massage Therapists make per hour in New York?
The median hourly wage for Massage Therapists in New York, NY-NJ is $27.72, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $48.04 or more per hour.
Is New York above or below average for Massage Therapists salaries?
The median Massage Therapists salary in New York, NY-NJ is 0.5% below the national median of $57,950. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.
What is the entry-level salary for Massage Therapists in New York?
Entry-level Massage Therapists (10th percentile) earn around $35,360 per year in New York, NY-NJ. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $46,700.