How Much to Tip Massage Therapist (2024)

Who doesn't love to treat themselves to a massage? But at the end of a relaxing session, how much should you tip the massage therapist?

What's the proper tipping etiquette for your massage therapist?

"If I don't tip them as much as last time, they'll think they did a bad job. But if I tip them the same amount, then I can't afford to come back as soon as I'd like."

Everyone's financial and health situation is different, so there's no exact rule on tipping. That said, there are still best practices on how to tip given the type of massage and certain occasions.

Here's how to calculate the amount you should tip for your visit.

How much should you tip for a $50 massage?

The standard tipping rate for a massage is 20%. So, for a $50 massage, you can tip $10. You can increase or lower your tip depending on how satisfied you are with their services.

How much do you tip for a 90-minute (1.5 hour) massage?

A 90-minute massage costs about $120 - $150. So, if you follow the general 20% gratuity rule, you'll tip about $24 - $30.

How much do you tip a massage therapist at a spa?

The standard rate to tip a massage at a spa is 20%. For instance, a body treatment that costs $100 would add a 20% tip of $20. Your total for the visit would be $120.

How much to tip the massage therapist owner?
You're not expected to tip massage therapists who are also business owners. Massage therapist owners typically charge enough for their services. You need to worry about tipping the massage therapist who personally provided you the service.

How much to tip a massage therapist in-home?

You should tip the standard hospitality rate of 20%. Self-employed massage therapists who travel to your home generally charge enough to cover the cost of travel. So there's no pressure to tip more than the usual amount.

Do you tip a massage therapist covered by insurance?

Oftentimes, monetary tips are appreciated by massage therapists - even if the visit was covered by insurance. You're not obligated to tip them if the session was uncomfortable.

However, some massage companies have a strict no-tipping policy that some companies should adhere to. If you're not sure of the policy, contact the massage company for their tipping procedures.

Massage therapists are generally not rich through their profession. But they provide an important service for people with aches and pains.

How much to tip a massage therapist at Christmas?

There are several ways to show your appreciation. You can tip over the standard 20% (such as 30%-40% for a session) or give a small gift to your massage therapist. This act of kindness during the holidays will surely go a long way.

Want to save a few bucks on your next massage? Try using a money-making app in your downtime to earn some extra cash and lighten the load on your bank account.

How much to tip a massage therapist in Canada?

For Canadian spas and salons, you generally tip 10% for standard service, 15% for great service, and 20% for excellent service.

How much to tip a massage therapist in Mexico?

As part of the etiquette in Mexico, you should tip aestheticians, spa therapists, and massage therapists around 15%-20% for their services. But sometimes, the tip will already be added to the bill. So be sure to check beforehand to avoid overtipping.

Bottom line

Who doesn't want a deep tissue massage after a month of working on our computers with our shoulders hunched?

It's great to go to a massage spa and get pampered for an hour or two. Massage therapists work hard to make our lives easier. Just be sure to show your appreciation with a kind tip at the end of the visit.