How to Become a Massage Therapists in Florida
Massage Therapists in Florida earn a median salary of $49,880/year, which is 14% below the national average. Florida has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a massage therapists takes home approximately $2,098/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a massage therapists can afford in Florida
Becoming a massage therapists in Florida
Meet education requirements
Massage Therapists positions in Florida typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Florida. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many massage therapists positions in Florida require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Florida licensure or certification
Florida may require specific licensing or professional certification for massage therapistss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Florida Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Florida
Florida employs 7,660 massage therapists. The highest concentrations are in Naples-Marco Island and North Port-Bradenton-Sarasota.
Massage Therapists salary by metro area in Florida
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Naples-Marco Island | $55K | $26.62/hr | 200 |
| North Port-Bradenton-Sarasota | $51K | $24.56/hr | 390 |
| Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach | $51K | $24.4/hr | 2,180 |
| Jacksonville | $50K | $24.07/hr | 530 |
| Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater | $50K | $24.04/hr | 1,290 |
| Gainesville | $50K | $23.81/hr | 90 |
| Ocala | $49K | $23.78/hr | 70 |
| Cape Coral-Fort Myers | $49K | $23.72/hr | 290 |
| Palm Bay-Melbourne-Titusville | $49K | $23.63/hr | 170 |
| Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford | $49K | $23.58/hr | 1,230 |
| Crestview-Fort Walton Beach-Destin | $49K | $23.53/hr | 100 |
| Punta Gorda | $49K | $23.52/hr | 50 |
| Sebastian-Vero Beach-West Vero Corridor | $49K | $23.53/hr | 80 |
| Port St. Lucie | $49K | $23.51/hr | — |
| Lakeland-Winter Haven | $49K | $23.38/hr | 70 |
Massage Therapists salary range in Florida
Massage Therapists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a massage therapists make in Florida?▼
The median massage therapists salary in Florida is $49,880 per year ($23.98/hr). This is 14% below the national median of $57,950. Salaries range from $26,760 to $74,490.
What are the requirements to become a massage therapists in Florida?▼
Massage Therapists positions in Florida typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Florida may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Florida licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a massage therapists afford to live in Florida?▼
At the median salary of $49,880, a massage therapists in Florida would take home approximately $3,510/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 40.2% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for massage therapists in Florida?▼
The highest paying metro areas for massage therapists in Florida are Naples-Marco Island ($55,370), North Port-Bradenton-Sarasota ($51,080), Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach ($50,740). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Florida have state income tax for massage therapists?▼
No, Florida does not have a state income tax. This means massage therapists keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.