Similar careers
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
A Massage Therapist is a trained professional who uses touch and various massage techniques to manipulate the soft-tissue muscles of the body, providing relief from pain, stress, and tension. This therapy promotes relaxation, improves circulation, and enhances overall well-being.
Education: Postsecondary nondegree award
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: None
Projected Growth: 18.3% (far above average)
Annual job openings: 24,700
Direct AI exposure: 7% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 30% of tasks
| According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average income (in USD) in 2025 was $58K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $34K per year | $44K per year | $58K per year | $78K per year | $100K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $7.47K above the national average. | ||||
Massage Therapists work in diverse settings, including spas, wellness centers, sports facilities, private practices, and healthcare establishments. They often have flexible schedules, which can include evenings and weekends, to accommodate client appointments.
Massage Therapy is a holistic approach to health and wellness, rooted in ancient healing traditions. As a Massage Therapist, you'll have the opportunity to directly impact the well-being of your clients. This career requires a blend of physical skill, knowledge of human anatomy, and interpersonal communication. Therapists need to be attentive to each client's individual needs and comfortable with physical contact as a primary tool of their profession.
The field of Massage Therapy has grown significantly, with a wide range of techniques and approaches. A successful therapist keeps up with these developments and may choose to specialize in specific types of massage. This specialization can enhance your marketability and allow you to cater to specific client groups, such as athletes or those with chronic pain.
Working as a Massage Therapist can be physically demanding, often requiring standing for long periods and using your hands and arms. However, the occupation can be extremely rewarding, offering the satisfaction of providing relief and wellness to others. Flexibility in work hours and environments is another benefit, allowing for a balance between professional and personal life.
The education requirement varies by state, but typically includes completing a postsecondary education program of 500-1,000 hours in length, which can take about 1 year. Most states also require a license or certification.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
