How to Become a Massage Therapists in California
Massage Therapists in California earn a median salary of $48,430/year, which is 16% below the national average. California has a state income tax of ~2.5%. After taxes and rent, a massage therapists takes home approximately $1,901/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a massage therapists can afford in California
Becoming a massage therapists in California
Meet education requirements
Massage Therapists positions in California typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many massage therapists positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for massage therapistss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 15,240 massage therapists. The highest concentrations are in Chico and Salinas.
Massage Therapists salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chico | $85K | $40.79/hr | 60 |
| Salinas | $60K | $28.67/hr | 220 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $59K | $28.58/hr | 170 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $59K | $28.27/hr | 6,060 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $57K | $27.3/hr | 100 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $57K | $27.27/hr | 830 |
| Vallejo | $52K | $25/hr | 90 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $50K | $23.95/hr | 150 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $49K | $23.57/hr | 110 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $49K | $23.47/hr | 260 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $49K | $23.4/hr | 290 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $48K | $23.19/hr | 870 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $48K | $22.87/hr | 1,350 |
| Redding | $47K | $22.55/hr | 70 |
| Fresno | $45K | $21.75/hr | 270 |
Massage Therapists salary range in California
Massage Therapists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a massage therapists make in California?▼
The median massage therapists salary in California is $48,430 per year ($23.28/hr). This is 16% below the national median of $57,950. Salaries range from $34,000 to $101,390.
What are the requirements to become a massage therapists in California?▼
Massage Therapists positions in California typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a massage therapists afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $48,430, a massage therapists in California would take home approximately $3,313/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 42.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for massage therapists in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for massage therapists in California are Chico ($84,840), Salinas ($59,630), Stockton-Lodi ($59,440). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for massage therapists?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 2.5%. On a $48,430 salary, this means roughly $1,196/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.