How much does massage therapy school cost?
How much does massage therapy school cost?
Average massage therapy school cost
Massage therapy school costs $5,000 to $15,000 on average for the tuition alone. Textbooks, equipment, supplies, and licensing fees add $500 to $4,500. The cost of massage therapy school varies significantly based on your location, the type of school, program length, and whether you qualify for any discounts or financial assistance.
| Factor | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition | $5,000 – $15,000 |
| Books & supplies | $400 – $3,800 |
| Licensing | $100 – $700 |
| Average total cost | $5,500 – $19,500 |
How long is massage therapy school?
Most massage therapy programs require 500 to 1,000 hours of training. Full-time students typically complete programs in 6 to 12 months. Part-time schedules extend completion to 12 to 24 months.
State requirements vary significantly. Some states require only 300 hours, while others mandate 1,000+ hours. Research your state's requirements before selecting a program. Longer programs provide more comprehensive training but increase your total costs and time investment.
Factors that impact the cost of massage therapy school
Several factors influence how much you'll pay for massage therapy education:
Location: Urban areas have higher tuition costs due to increased overhead expenses. Consider living expenses too—attending school in an expensive city adds housing and transportation costs to your total investment.
Program length: Shorter certificate programs (300 to 600 hours) cost less than comprehensive diploma programs (600 to 1,000+ hours). However, longer programs often provide more thorough training and better prepare you for state licensing requirements.
Application fees: Most schools charge application fees ranging from $25 to $150. Some institutions waive these fees during promotional periods or for early applicants.
Insurance: Professional liability insurance during school costs $50 to $200 annually. Some programs include this coverage in tuition, while others require you to purchase it separately. Student health insurance may also be mandatory if you don't have existing coverage.
Books, equipment, & supplies: Textbooks, uniforms, massage oils, linens, and portable massage tables add significant costs. Budget $400 to $3,800 for equipment and required supplies. Some schools include starter kits in the tuition.
Buying good quality, gently used equipment can help reduce your initial expenses significantly, as a massage table is often one of the highest dollar items you need.
Type of school
Community colleges offer the most affordable massage therapy programs, with tuition ranging from $3,000 to $8,000. Private vocational schools cost more, usually costing $8,000 and $15,000+. Some specialized massage institutes charge premium rates but may offer more comprehensive training or unique modalities.
Accredited schools often charge higher tuition but provide better job prospects and financial aid eligibility. Regional or national accreditation ensures your education meets industry standards. Non-accredited programs may cost less up front but could limit your licensing options in certain states.
Exam & licensing fees
State licensing and exam fees to become a massage therapist range from $100 to $700, depending on the state.
The Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) costs $265 in most states.
Some states require state-specific licensure exams costing $100 to $200.
State licensing fees range from $50 to $300 initially, with renewal fees every 1 to 3 years.
Background checks and fingerprinting, required in many states, add $25 to $75.
Some states require CPR certification, which can cost anywhere from free to $100 or more.
Research your state's specific requirements early to budget accurately.
Financial aid & payment options
Multiple funding sources can make massage therapy school more affordable. Explore all available options to minimize your out-of-pocket expenses and reduce financial stress during your education.
FAFSA: Federal financial aid through FAFSA covers eligible students at accredited schools. Pell Grants don't require repayment, while federal student loans offer low interest rates. Complete your FAFSA early to maximize aid opportunities.
Scholarships: Some massage therapy schools offer merit-based or need-based scholarships. Professional organizations like the American Massage Therapy Association provide scholarship programs. Local community foundations and healthcare-focused scholarships may also be available.
Payment plans: Most schools offer monthly payment plans to spread costs over your program duration and avoid having to take out student loans. Many of these plans don't charge interest but may include small administrative fees.
Discounts: Military veterans and spouses often receive tuition discounts or benefits through the GI Bill. Some schools offer discounts for early payment, referrals, or enrolling in multiple programs. Ask your admissions counselor about all available discounts.
Massage therapy school FAQs
How much do massage therapists make?
Massage therapist salaries vary by location, experience, and work setting. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median wage of $57,950 per year for massage therapists. Entry-level therapists earn around $25,000 per year, while experienced professionals in high-demand areas can earn $75,000 per year or more.
Self-employed therapists often earn more per session but must manage business expenses and irregular income. Spa employees earn $15 to $25 per hour on average, plus tips. Healthcare settings like hospitals or physical therapy clinics offer steady salaries ranging from $35,000 to $55,000 per year.
How much does it cost to become a massage therapist?
The cost to become a massage therapist depends on your state's requirements, your chosen education program, and whether you plan to work for yourself or as an employee. Initial education, equipment, supplies, and licensing average $5,500 to $19,500 as outlined above. You'll also need professional liability insurance, which costs $100 to $300+ per year. Most states also require ongoing education to maintain your license.
Becoming a self-employed massage therapist requires additional investments in marketing, business licenses, and establishing a workspace. Budget $20,000 to $30,000 total for education through initial business setup, though costs vary significantly by location and career path. Starting as a mobile massage therapist will cost less but be sure to factor in travel and vehicle wear and tear.
Can you do massage therapy school online?
Massage therapy education requires significant hands-on practice, limiting fully online options. However, hybrid programs combine online academic coursework with in-person practical training. This format offers flexibility while meeting hands-on requirements.
Online components cover anatomy, physiology, pathology, and business skills. In-person sessions focus on massage techniques, body mechanics, and client interaction. Hybrid programs may reduce overall costs by minimizing facility usage while maintaining educational quality.
Choosing a massage therapy school
Selecting the right massage therapy school significantly impacts your education quality, costs, and career prospects. Consider these essential factors when evaluating programs:
Verify the school's accreditation status and state approval.
Check graduation rates, job placement statistics, and exam pass rates to gauge the program's effectiveness.
Visit campuses to assess facilities, equipment quality, and class sizes.
Evaluate the curriculum's comprehensiveness—look for anatomy, pathology, business skills, and diverse massage modalities.
Consider the location convenience and associated living costs.
Research instructor qualifications and experience.
Ask about continuing education requirements and career services support after graduation.
Questions to ask massage therapy instructors
Getting detailed information from potential instructors will help you make informed decisions about your massage therapy education investment. Ask these essential questions during your school evaluation process:
What are your professional credentials and years of massage therapy experience?
How many students are in each hands-on practice class?
What massage modalities and techniques does the curriculum cover?
What percentage of graduates pass the MBLEx on their first attempt?
Do you provide job placement assistance or career services after graduation?
Are there opportunities for advanced training or specialty certifications?
Can you provide references from recent graduates or current employers?
How does the program prepare students for starting their own practice?
What business and marketing training is included in the curriculum?
Are there opportunities for hands-on experience with real clients during training?
How do you stay current with industry trends and new techniques?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.