Massage Therapists in California
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | California | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $48,430 | $57,950 | -16.4% vs US |
| State Rank | #42 of 52 states | ||
| Employment | 15,240 jobs | 96,040 jobs | 15.9% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in California
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $34,000 | $16.35 |
| 25th Percentile | $35,440 | $17.04 |
| Median | $48,430 | $23.28 |
| 75th Percentile | $76,080 | $36.58 |
| 90th Percentile | $101,390 | $48.75 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Massage Therapists in California in 2026?
With a median salary of $48,430 in California and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +22.0%, massage therapists are still in strong and growing demand.
How can massage therapists increase their salary in California?
Massage Therapists in California can increase earnings by targeting higher-paying industries which tend to offer compensation well above the state median. Additionally, relocating to a higher-paying state could offer a significant income boost: California currently ranks #42 out of 52 states for this occupation. Pursuing advanced credentials, specializations, or roles with greater responsibility are proven ways to move toward the 75th or 90th percentile of earners.
Which industries pay the most for Massage Therapists in California?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Spectator Sports | $90,700 |
| Spectator Sports | $90,700 |
| Performing Arts, Spectator Sports, and Related Industries | $88,790 |
How are Massage Therapists paid in California compared to the national average?
The median salary for Massage Therapists in California is $48,430, which is 16.4% below the national median of $57,950.