How Much Does It Cost to Become a Massage Therapist?

Are you ready to start your own career as a massage therapist? If so, congratulations! You’re about to enter a highly fulfilling profession that combines the art of healing with the science of the human body. 

But before you set up your massage practice, there’s one essential step to consider: massage therapy school. The right education not only means you’re equipped to serve your clients effectively, but it’s also a basic requirement for becoming licensed or certified in most states.

But how much does it cost to become a massage therapist, and is there a way to save money on your massage training?

That’s where this guide comes in. We believe you shouldn’t have to break the bank in order to pursue your passions and do what you love. 

We’ll break down the main costs involved in pursuing a massage therapy career – including tuition, supplies, certifications, and other expenses – so you can plan your path to success without surprises.

Massage Therapy School: How Much Does It Cost?

So, how much does massage school cost?

Unfortunately, it’s tough to give you a definitive answer about how much it will cost you to earn your certificate in massage therapy, since tuition costs can vary widely depending on factors like location and program duration. 

However, most massage schools fall anywhere between $6,000 and $12,000 for basic training. Some elite programs may even charge upwards of $15,000 if they offer advanced training or additional certifications.

Beyond tuition, aspiring massage therapists should also keep in mind the cost of textbooks, supplies, and any additional fees. 

Many schools charge for materials like massage tables, oils, and bolsters, all of which are essential for hands-on practice. These extra costs can add a few hundred to a few thousand dollars to your budget. Keep an eye out for other expenses such as uniforms, liability insurance, and fees for state licensure exams.

If you’re considering online massage school to save money, know that these costs may vary as well, but tend to be a bit lower. 

While virtual programs can sometimes be less expensive, make sure they include optional hands-on workshops or partnerships with local trainers. This kind of practical training will help you build your skills, and a solid massage training course that incorporates things like practicums will make it worth your while.

What Impacts the Cost of Massage Therapy School?

If you’re wondering why tuition at massage therapy schools varies so much, it’s because there are several factors at play that impact their overall cost. It’s tough to answer the question, “how much does it cost to become a massage therapist?” because there’s so much at play.

With that said, here are a few of the most significant factors affecting the cost of massage school:

Duration of the program

Most massage therapy schools offer programs ranging from 500 to 1,000 hours of training. The longer the program, the more expensive it will usually be to earn your certificate in massage therapy. Many states require a minimum number of hours to qualify for certification, so make sure you choose a program that meets your local licensing requirements. 

For example, if your state requires 750 hours, you’ll want to enroll in a program that includes at least that – or face the additional costs of supplementary training hours later on.

Shorter programs may seem more affordable at first, but look carefully at what they offer. Programs with fewer hours may leave out key techniques or advanced training that could enhance your career down the line. It’s all about finding the right balance between cost and content.

School seniority

Prestige is great, but it can come with a price tag. Schools with an established reputation for excellence tend to charge higher tuition fees. These institutions often offer advantages like experienced instructors, job placement services, and access to a broader professional network. 

While budget-friendly options do exist, investing in a reputable school can sometimes pay off long-term by opening doors to better opportunities and higher earnings.

Massage specializations

If you’re interested in a specific niche – like sports massage, prenatal therapy, or lymphatic drainage – be prepared to pay extra.

Specialization courses, even in an online massage school, are often offered as add-ons after completing your main program, and they come with additional fees. While they’re certainly not required, specializing can give your practice a competitive edge, allowing you to charge higher rates or attract a specific clientele.

Other factors

Your school costs won’t just include tuition. Many programs require students to purchase their own supplies, such as massage tables, linens, oils, and bolsters. These items are essential, not optional, and their quality can make a real difference in your training experience. Expect to spend anywhere from $500 to $1,500 on supplies. 

The good news? These items become part of your professional toolkit when you begin running your business, so they’re a worthwhile investment for the long haul.

Unfortunately, though, the costs of becoming a full-fledged massage therapist don’t end there. 

Once you’re out of school and your business is up and running, there will be other ongoing costs for which you’ll need to foot the bill, too. These include licensing and registration fees, business insurance, and the cost of renting or leasing space. 

This is one reason why it’s so smart to consider financial aid options like the ones we’ll dive into next. You don’t want to spend all of your money on school when you’ve got a business to start! 

4 Financial Aid Options for Aspiring Massage Therapists

Yes, becoming a massage therapist is expensive, but the good news is that there are ways to manage the costs (and perhaps even save money while building a successful business). In fact, one of the best ways to reduce your massage school cost is to seek out financial aid. 

Like any other field of study, financial aid can make covering these costs far more manageable. Below, we’ll break down some of the most useful ways to fund your training.

1. Scholarships and grants

Free money to fund your dreams? Yes, please. Scholarships and grants don’t need to be paid back, making them one of the most attractive forms of financial aid. 

Many massage schools – and even national organizations like AMTA – offer scholarships to qualified students.

Start by contacting schools directly to learn about the awards they offer and specific eligibility requirements. There are also industry-specific grants for wellness professionals. Every dollar helps, so applying for multiple scholarships is a no-brainer.

2. Federal financial aid

If you're studying at an institution that qualifies for federal financial aid programs, you may be eligible for loans or grants through programs like FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). 

This can be a particularly good option if you don’t qualify for need-based scholarships but still require assistance. Additionally, federal aid loans often have lower interest rates compared to private loans.

Pro tip: Don’t wait until the last minute to fill out the FAFSA. The early bird gets the worm. Yes, even when it comes to massage school!

3. Private loans or credits

Got a credit history? Then you might want to look into private loans tailored for small business owners or those launching careers in hands-on professions. 

GlossGenius, for example, offers Genius Loans, small business loans that are designed just for self-starters like you. These low-stress loans are perfect for massage therapists starting their own practice. 

The loans are available in amounts ranging from $1,000 to $250,000. There’s no personal credit check, and repayment adjusts based on your sales. Approval is based on factors like your anticipated income or, if you’re already freelancing, your payment history. Funds can arrive in as little as two days, so you can hit the ground running without delays.

Learn more about how Genius Loans work here.

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4. Payment plans

Many massage schools are happy to structure payment plans that allow you to pay in more digestible chunks. This could mean breaking up tuition into monthly installments – letting you balance costs without needing to take out hefty loans upfront. 

Payment plans are particularly helpful if you’re already working part-time and want to avoid long-term debt.

Start Your Massage Therapy Career With GlossGenius

Now that you’ve budgeted and planned for a massage therapy career, let's talk about growth. Building a successful practice requires more than certification – it’s about forming strong client relationships and delivering a stellar service experience.

With GlossGenius, you can do just that. Designed to make running your practice easier, our platform helps manage bookings, send appointment reminders, and collect payments without stress. You can even track where new clients are coming from with built-in analytics, helping you focus on the marketing channels that really work.

Our system prioritizes ease for both you and your clients. An intuitive interface lets customers book in just seconds, and automation handles most of the back-office work, so you can focus on what you love – helping people feel their best.

Starting a massage therapy business is a rewarding step, but there’s no need to go solo. Lean on platforms like GlossGenius for smart business tools that simplify client management and marketing, so you can focus on your craft.

Why wait? Start your free trial today – no credit card required! You're moments away from setting up a thriving massage practice that works as seamlessly as you do.

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FAQ

How long does it take to become a massage therapist in MS?

The state of Mississippi requires 600 hours of training from an approved massage school, which typically takes 6-9 months to complete.

Is getting a massage therapy license worth it?

Absolutely! Massage therapy is a growing field with highly flexible work schedules and opportunities to make a meaningful impact on clients' physical and emotional wellness. For many, the ability to work independently in a fulfilling field far outweighs the upfront costs.

Do you need a license to massage in DC?

Yes, a license is required to practice massage therapy in Washington, D.C. The requirements typically include passing the MBLEx exam, completing a minimum training program, and registering with state-specific authorities.

How long is massage therapy school in PA?

Massage therapy training in Pennsylvania generally requires between 600 to 750 hours of instruction, which translates to about 6-12 months of schooling depending on whether you attend full- or part-time.

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