Full-Body, Swedish, Deep Tissue Massage Costs

How much is a massage?

The national average cost of a massage is $100 per session, but prices can range anywhere from $65 to $180. On an hourly basis, average massage prices range from $40 to $145 per hour.

Massage prices:

National average cost	$100 per session
Typical cost range	$85-$125 per session
Low-end cost range	$65-$75 per session
High-end cost range	$145-$180 per session

But these prices are only a starting-off point. The type of massage, the length and where you’re located will play a big role in how much you’ll pay — which is why you should always get estimates from massage therapists near you.

If you have aches, knots or tension, read the following guide to understand how pricing can vary by type, duration and more.

What’s in this cost guide?

In many cases, the cost of your massage will depend on its length. Here’s how much you’ll pay, on average, for 90- and 60-minute massages:

1-hour massage average cost	$90
90-minute massage average cost	$122

A one-hour massage typically ranges between $65 and $70 per hour on the low end, and $120 and $145 on the high end.

The per session and per hour rates will vary by the type of massage you book. For example, full-body massages are typically more expensive than ones that focus solely on your head or hands. And a customized massage with extra services and add-ons (e.g., aromatherapy, hot stone massage, exfoliation services, special serums, etc.) can inflate prices as well.

Check out the following estimated prices for popular types of massage techniques and treatments:

Swedish massage	$40-$100+ per hour
Medical massage	$50-$75 per hour
Pregnancy massage	$60-$85 per hour
Deep tissue massage	$90-$110 per session
Sports massage	$105-$165 for 90 minutes

Keep in mind these prices are estimates based on a review of several services.

Swedish massage cost

Swedish massage therapy pricing can range from $40 to over $100 per hour. It’s one of the most popular styles and focuses on relaxing your entire body. Typically, the therapist will perform kneading techniques, and apply direct and slow pressure to specific muscle groups.

Medical massage cost

A medical massage might cost approximately $50 to $75 per hour. Unlike your typical spa massage, a medical massage often focuses on treating one specific issue or ailment. Additionally, it might include follow-up information on treating that ailment.

Pregnancy massage cost

Pregnancy massages can cost around $60 to $85 per hour. Also referred to as prenatal massages, these focus on the well-being of expectant mothers. One of the main goals is to promote good circulation and alleviate any pain.

Deep tissue massage cost

A deep tissue massage typically costs approximately $90 to $110 per session. Deep tissue massages involve kneading and applying pressure to relieve muscle tension. Often, you have the choice of a full-body massage or you can target specific muscle groups as needed.

Sports massage cost

A sports massage can cost around $105 to $165 for 90 minutes. Deep tissue and sports massage therapists focus on assisting athletes in recovery and preparation for physical activity. Whether booked after a big game or before a marathon, these might help you prevent injuries — or recover from them.

Average massage rates can vary greatly. From a hot stone massage to a deep tissue massage, pricing depends on a variety of factors:

• Duration: The longer your massage, the more expensive it will be.
• Couple vs. single: If you’re getting a couple’s massage, expect to pay more than you would if you were by yourself.
• Type: A simple foot massage will be cheaper than hot stone therapy. This has to do with not only time, but also the additional materials and skills utilized for each treatment.
• Add-ons: Add-ons can quickly add up. Some examples of add-ons include aromatherapy oils or additional services. For example, they might offer you a hand exfoliation treatment during a Swedish massage — but for an additional fee.
• At-home service: If you decide to hire a mobile massage therapy service (i.e., someone who comes to visit you at your home, office or hotel) instead of going to the spa, you might pay more.
• Experience: In many cases, the therapist’s reputation, skill level and overall experience might influence pricing. More advanced therapists might charge higher fees for their services than a newer therapist.
• Location: As is true with any service, the cost of living in your area will play a role in how much therapists are charging for their services.

Whether you need Swedish massage therapy or trigger point therapy services, always take the time to compare different prices from several therapists in your area.

Getting a massage can be expensive, but there are some crafty ways you can save a few dollars. For example, ask about first-time client discounts. If you’re a new client, you might be able to score a discounted fee or even a free mini-massage. It doesn’t hurt to ask.

Or, if you’d like to have regular massages, ask if they have packages. Oftentimes, massage packages will save you money over the long run because the price per massage is cheaper.

Lastly, ask if there are memberships available. They might offer discounted rates if you buy a monthly membership, which could be a worthwhile investment for you.

In any case, don’t hesitate to talk about your budget with the pros you’re considering to see if they can come up with a price that works for everyone.

Choosing the right professional can be the key to unlocking ultimate relaxation. As you consider which one to choose, keep these tips in mind:

1. Conduct online research. Do your research before booking an appointment. Compile a list of at least three to five therapists you’re considering and compare their services.
2. Ask about credentials. Find out if the therapists have the right licenses to provide services in your area. Ask about their schooling and experience, too.
3. Read reviews. Always read client testimonials. Find out what others have to say about their services and skills.
4. Request quotes. Not all massage therapy services charge the same. Request free price quotes from several therapists near you before scheduling an appointment.
5. Ask questions: Ask as many questions as you’d like. For example, do they provide mobile massage options? Are there different rates for non-members and members at the spa? Can you purchase gift certificates for a discounted rate? Asking questions can help you get the best deal and prepare you for the massage ahead.

Need more information on how to hire a pro? Check out Thumbtack’s extensive guide to hiring safely.

Before you head to your appointment, take some time to prepare to get the most out of the experience.

• Think about what you hope to gain. Are you looking to relax specific muscle groups? Or is there a pain point you need help with? Come to the appointment ready to explain what you need.
• Put on comfortable clothing. You may be stretching or performing other physical activities that require loose clothing.
• Drink plenty of water. It’s typically recommended that you stay hydrated to help flush out any toxins.
• Mentally prepare for taking the day to relax. If possible, don’t plan any other activities for your day. This allows you to get the most out of your experience. A massage alleviates stress, but if you immediately return to a stressful situation, you might not gain as much from the therapy.

After you’ve decided what type of therapy you need, begin your search by comparing top-rated massage therapists near you. This will help ensure you hire the best professional at the best price possible.

Frequently asked questions

Below is a list of frequently asked questions about massage therapy. Learn more about what to expect when booking a massage.

How much should I tip for a massage?

Tipping your massage therapist is a way of showing your appreciation for their work. Several factors should influence how much you tip. For example, a full-body, 120-minute session will warrant a much different tip than a quick foot massage.

A general rule of thumb for tipping is to tip 20% on services offered. However, you might find that you wish to tip more than this.

How much do massage therapists make?

A massage therapist will make around $21, on average, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Why is a massage so expensive?

The length and type of massage can significantly influence how much you’ll pay. For example, an in-home, full-body, 90-minute massage will be far more expensive than a standard one-hour spa massage.

What do you wear for a massage?

Loose, comfortable clothing is recommended to ensure ultimate relaxation before and after your massage. But don’t hesitate to ask your massage therapist what you should (and shouldn’t) wear to your appointment.