Massage Industry Statistics New York: Facts & Statistics Report
Did you know that there are around 321k registered massage therapists in the United States? The massage therapy industry statistics reveal that massage services are becoming increasingly popular and an essential part of the wellness and healthcare sector in New York. As businesses and individuals become increasingly aware of the stats and benefits of massage therapy in the work environment, they are investing in massage therapy not only for stress relief but also for pain management and overall well-being.
In this article, we are going to look at some of the massage industry statistics in New York, and will also explore how this industry is continuously growing.
30 Seconds Summary
New York has one of the highest numbers of licensed massage therapists in the U.S.
The demand for massage therapy services is increasing in spas, wellness centers, medical clinics, and workplaces.
Tourists often look for massage services that improve the health and wellness tourism sector.
Many corporations are including massage therapy in employee wellness programs.
Massage therapy plays a growing role in medical treatments for chronic pain, rehabilitation, and mental health.
What Do Massage Therapists Do?
A massage therapist uses their hands to rub and press on muscles, this way they can help people to feel better. This can help reduce stress, relieve pain, and improve the flow of blood. A massage therapist’s job is to make people feel relaxed and comfortable while also helping with muscle tension and injuries.
Here are a few responsibilities of a massage therapist:
Talk to Clients: They ask about any pain, stress, or injuries before starting.
Give Massages: They use different techniques, like Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, sports massage, and trigger point therapy for muscle pain.
Give Advice: They tell clients about post-massage care, stretching exercises, and wellness practices to help maintain their muscle health.
Keep Things Clean: They follow hygiene rules to make sure everything is safe and comfortable.
Use Oils & Tools: Many therapists use oils, lotions, or even hot stones to make the massage better.
Different Types of Massages
A massage therapist often specializes in and provides different types of massage, such as:
Swedish Massage: Light and gentle, helps with stress.
Deep Tissue Massage: Uses strong pressure to help with pain and tight muscles.
Sports Massage: Helps athletes recover from exercise and injuries.
Prenatal Massage: Helps pregnant women feel more comfortable.
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Where Do Massage Therapists Work?
Massage therapists can work in different places, depending on what kind of massage they offer. Here are some of the common places where you’ll find them:
Place
Percentage
Self-employed workers
37%
Personal care services
32
Offices of all other health practitioners
11
Offices of chiropractors
7
Accommodation
6
Work Conditions
Many therapists work evenings and weekends to match their clients' schedules.
The job requires a lot of standing and using their hands all day.
Some therapists work for spas or clinics, while others run their own businesses and choose their own work hours.
More people are choosing home massage services, so mobile therapists are in high demand.
Employment and Workforce Trends
Massage therapy is a fast-growing profession in New York, with thousands of new practitioners entering the field.
According to New York State Education Department (NYSED) here is the total number of licenses issued to massage therapists in the past five years.
Professional Title
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
Massage Therapists
388
395
340
286
283
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics employment of massage therapists is projected to grow 18 percent from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations. Here is a workforce data for massage therapy:
Professional Title
Total Number in 2023
Predicted Number in 2033
Total increase in the percentage
Total Increase in Numbers
Massage Therapists
147,100
173,200
18%
26,000
More medical centers and wellness clinics are integrating massage therapy into healthcare services.
The demand for specialized massage services, such as prenatal massage and sports massage, is also increasing.
Salaries of Licensed Massage Therapists in NYC
Licensed Massage therapists in New York earn higher salaries than the national average. Here are the average salaries for massage therapists in New York City, in May 2023, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):
Employment Sector
Annual Salary (Average)
Chiropractor office
$63,450
Private Wellness Centers
$48,450
Personal Care Services
$52,000
Hotel and Spa Industry
$36,520
The average cost of massage therapy in NYC is between $80 and $150 per hour.
Specialized massage techniques (sports massage, rehabilitation therapy) lead to higher earnings.
High-end luxury spas and medical wellness centers offer premium salaries to experienced therapists.
Licensing and Regulations
To become a licensed massage therapist in NYC, professionals must meet specific requirements set by the New York State Education Department (NYSED).
Here are the requirements for massage therapy licensing in New York City:
Be at least 18 years old and of good moral character.
Complete 1,000 hours of education from an accredited massage therapy school.
Pass the New York State Massage Therapy Examination.
Have completed a course in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) within three years prior to licensure.
Submit an application and fees to the New York State Office of the Professions.
For applicants licensed in another state, meet experience requirements for endorsement.
Demonstrate English proficiency (if applicable).
Renew licenses every three years, completing continuing education credits.
Follow state regulations regarding ethics, hygiene, and client confidentiality.
The New York State Massage Therapy Examination is offered twice annually, and reasonable accommodations are available for individuals with disabilities.
For more details, visit the New York State Education Department’s official website.
Who is Getting a Massage?
Massage therapy is becoming more popular among different age groups and professions. Millennials and Gen X make up the largest percentage of clients.
According to AMTA:
Last year, 27% of women and 22% of men received a massage.
Individuals with children under 18 at home tend to seek massage therapy more frequently than those without children.
Income level also influences the likelihood of getting a massage. 39% of individuals earning $100,000 or more received a massage in the past year, whereas only 17% of those earning $50,000 or less did the same.
Where Do People Go for Massages?
The spa industry has grown in New York:
In 2023, 30% of women and 45% of men chose to have a massage at a spa.
Additionally, 45% of individuals received their massage at a massage therapist’s office, while 22% opted for a session at a massage franchise or chain that year.
Of those visiting franchises, 10% had their most recent massage at a well-known national chain in 2023.
Why Do People Get Massages?
According to a survey conducted by AMTA in 2023, here are a few massage therapy facts:
A significant 42% of massage clients reported that their most recent session was primarily for health and wellness purposes.
While pampering isn’t the main motivation for most, only 15% of people cited it as their primary reason for their last massage, although 32% treated themselves to a massage for pampering at some point during the past year.
Additionally, 51% of consumers sought massage therapy to relax or reduce stress.
Both men and women were equally inclined to discuss massage therapy with their doctor or healthcare provider.
In 2023, 43% of individuals who received a massage for health-related reasons did so as part of a treatment plan recommended by a doctor or medical professional.
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Stats and Benefits of Massage Therapy
In the previous year, 64 % of men and 58 % of women got a massage for health and wellness reasons. Here are some other facts about massage therapy:
61% of massages were for medical reasons, including pain management and injury recovery.
29% of consumers sought massage therapy for soreness, stiffness, or spasms.
18% received massages for chronic pain relief and management.
15% used massage therapy to manage acute pain.
8% of massages were for injury recovery and rehabilitation.
14% received massages to maintain fitness, health, and wellness.
7% sought massage therapy for headache and migraine relief.
2% of massages were for pregnancy or prenatal care.
56% of consumers got massages for mental health benefits, including relaxation and stress relief.
51% specifically sought massage therapy for stress reduction.
13% used massage therapy for general mental health support.
32% of massages were for pampering or special occasions.
5% of massages were for sports conditioning and athletic recovery.
4% of consumers received massages to manage PTSD symptoms.
43% of consumers received their last massage for a health or wellness reason.
Here are some of the main reasons why people prefer to get massage therapy:
Pain Relief: Back pain, muscle recovery, and post-injury therapy.
Stress Reduction: Corporate workers and busy professionals seek relaxation therapy.
Luxury & Wellness: Spa treatments are a major attraction for residents and tourists.
Post-Pandemic Demand: More people are prioritizing self-care and wellness treatments.
Future Outlook for Massage Therapy in New York
According to the NYC massage market data discussed above, the demand for massage therapy is continuing to increase, as:
More hospitals and rehab centers are adding massage therapy to treatment plans.
Wellness tourism is improving the demand for massage services in hotels and resorts.
People are becoming more and more aware of the long-term health benefits, as a result of which the massage industry is expanding.
Advancements in technology, such as mobile massage booking apps, are improving accessibility.
Over to You
The massage therapy industry in New York is booming, with growing demand for wellness services. Whether you’re looking for a massage service or considering a career in massage therapy, now is a great time to explore the industry.
Ready to experience the benefits of massage therapy? Find the best massage therapy services at Healing Forest Massage today!
FAQs
Q: How much does a massage therapist earn in NYC?
A: The average salary of a massage therapist in New York City is $55,310 per year.
Q: What is the job outlook for massage therapists in New York?
A: In New York the massage therapists industry is projected to grow 18% by 2033.
Q: What are the key benefits of massage therapy?
A: Massage therapy can help with pain relief, stress reduction, improved circulation, and better mental health.
