Massage Therapists in North Carolina
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | North Carolina | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $61,670 | $57,950 | +6.4% vs US |
| State Rank | #15 of 52 states | Top 20 state | |
| Employment | 2,750 jobs | 96,040 jobs | 2.9% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in North Carolina
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $30,580 | $14.70 |
| 25th Percentile | $51,360 | $24.69 |
| Median | $61,670 | $29.65 |
| 75th Percentile | $82,360 | $39.60 |
| 90th Percentile | $92,400 | $44.43 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Massage Therapists in North Carolina in 2026?
With a median salary of $61,670 in North Carolina and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +63.1%, massage therapists are still in strong and growing demand.
How can massage therapists increase their salary in North Carolina?
Massage Therapists in North Carolina 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: North Carolina currently ranks #15 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 North Carolina?
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 North Carolina compared to the national average?
The median salary for Massage Therapists in North Carolina is $61,670, which is 6.4% above the national median of $57,950.