By: Natural Healers Staff
Updated: January 29, 2026
Massage Therapy Degree and Career Guide
- Becoming a Massage Therapist
- Massage Therapy Schooling
- Online Programs
- Massage School Accreditation
- School Tuition
- State Boards of Massage
- Types of Massage
- Massage Therapist Duties
- Massage Therapist Salary
Massage Therapist Salary State Guides
Massage Therapy Salaries in Arizona
Arizona has a strong wellness culture, especially in cities like Scottsdale, Sedona and Tucson, which are known for luxury spas, holistic retreats and wellness tourism. This may create steady employment opportunities for massage therapists as well as potential for good income, especially in high-end environments.
Too, Arizona’s large retiree population increases demand for massage therapy focused on pain management, mobility, arthritis relief and stress reduction. Older adults often seek non-invasive wellness solutions, making them regular clients. This may boost job security and open niches such as geriatric massage or medical massage.
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There are 2,840 people employed as massage therapists in Arizona says the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), making Arizona the seventh highest state for largest employment of massage therapists in the U.S. The median wage per hour is $29 and the forecasted job growth for the coming decade is 15.4%.
While many massage therapists in Arizona operate independently, several prominent employers offer substantial opportunities within the state. Here are five prominent employers of massage therapists in Arizona, spanning various specialties and work environments:
- Massage Envy, Multiple locations, AZ.
- Massage Envy is the largest employer of massage therapists in the U.S., with over 1,100 franchised locations nationwide. Arizona hosts over 40 of these locations, including in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Chandler and Tucson.
- Banner Health, Multiple locations, AZ.
- As Arizona’s largest healthcare system, Banner Health operates 33 hospitals and numerous specialized facilities across the state. The system integrates massage therapy into medical settings, focusing on pain management, rehabilitation and patient wellness.
- Canyon Ranch, Tucson, AZ.
- A renowned wellness resort located in Tucson, Canyon Ranch offers holistic health services in a luxury setting. They provide integrative therapies including massage, acupuncture and fitness programs.
- Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa, Phoenix, AZ.
- A rapidly growing franchise with over 550 locations in the U.S. and Canada, including Arizona. They offer a variety of massage services such as Swedish, deep tissue and hot stone, along with facials.
- Village Health Clubs & Spas, Phoenix, Chandler, Scottsdale, AZ.
- A premier health club chain in Arizona that combines fitness facilities with spa services, offering massage therapy as part of a comprehensive wellness program. An ideal environment for therapists interested in a holistic approach to health, working alongside fitness professionals and wellness coaches.
Arizona’s large retiree population increases demand for massage therapy focused on pain management, mobility, arthritis relief and stress reduction.
Salary statistics for Arizona
Arizona offers salaries for massage therapists that list above the national median, and even surpassing California’s median wage. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), as of 2024, some of Arizona’s metro areas pay well over the median, with areas such as Prescott Valley–Prescott, paying over $77,000 annually.
In terms of work environment, self-employment tends to offer the highest income potential, especially for therapists who establish a clientele and operate in high-demand areas. Self-employed massage therapists can set their own rates—often significantly higher than what spas or franchises offer—especially if they specialize in modalities like sports massage, deep tissue massage, medical massage or prenatal therapy—or in the case of Arizona, geriatric massage.
Median massage therapist salary in Arizona
According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for massage therapists in Arizona is around $59,550, with variations depending on location, experience and specialization. Entry-level massage therapists may earn less while they begin to build their practices, and experienced practitioners in high-demand locations or workplaces may earn significantly more.
Here are median salaries specific to Arizona at a state-level and by highest paying metro areas:
Massage Therapists
10%$37,650
25%$49,740
50%$59,550Median
75%$81,450
90%$90,640
Median Hourly Wage$29
Job growth15.4%
Total Employment2,840
| Metro area | Median Salary | Bottom 10% | Top 10% |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prescott Valley-Prescott, AZ | $77,340 | $47,430 | $83,200 |
| Tucson, AZ | $58,330 | $31,990 | $94,090 |
| Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler, AZ | $56,450 | $38,710 | $90,600 |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 2024 median salary; projected job growth through 2034. Actual salaries vary depending on location, level of education, years of experience, work environment, and other factors. Salaries may differ even more for those who are self-employed or work part time.
Take a look at how salaries compare nationally for fields that are similar to massage therapy:
Salary range for massage therapists in Arizona
The salary range for massage therapists in Arizona typically spans from $37,650 for the lowest 10% in the field to $90,640 for the highest 10% in the field per year.
What might affect Arizona’s salary ranges?
Arizona’s massage therapist wage distribution may differ from national trends due to several state-specific factors:
- Tourism and the spa industry: Arizona, especially in cities like Scottsdale and Sedona, has a high concentration of luxury spas and resorts. These employers may offer higher wages or more lucrative tipping opportunities, influencing the upper end of the wage scale (90th percentile).
- Urban vs. rural locations: Urban areas like Phoenix and Tucson may offer more consistent employment, with higher pay rates than rural areas, while lower 10th percentile wages could reflect part-time or entry-level work in rural or low-demand markets.
Pay by metro area within Arizona
Your earning level may depend upon where you live within a state. For example, cities tend to pay better than rural or less populated areas. If your city is an industry hub or a high-demand area, such as Phoenix, Sedona or Scottsdale, pay may be more competitive.
In Arizona, the Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler metro area ranks number four on the BLS’ areas of highest employment of massage therapists, but there are no metro areas in Arizona that make the top 10 list for highest pay. Here are the top 10 metro areas for massage therapists by pay in the U.S.
Salary growth and job outlook
Job growth for massage therapists in Arizona is expected to surpass the national average for the field, which is already higher than the average job growth rate for all professions combined, said the BLS.
15.4%
Job growth for massage therapists through 2034 according to the BLS
O*Net, which is a subsidiary of the BLS, said that Arizona’s job growth rate for massage therapists will be 29% through 2032, which will add approximately 640 new massage therapists to the existing field.
Factors that may affect your salary in Arizona
Several Arizona-specific factors may influence how much a massage therapist earns in the state. Here are some key factors:
- Tourism and resort industries:
- Scottsdale, Sedona and Tucson are known for luxury resorts, spas, and wellness retreats. Massage therapists working in these high-end settings may earn higher hourly rates and generous tips, and seasonal winter months peaks may boost demand and income.
- Cost of living:
- Areas such as Phoenix and Tucson have higher demand but also more competition. Rural or less affluent areas may offer lower wages due to reduced client base and affordability.
- Employment setting:
- Income can vary depending on whether you’re working at a resort or spa (often better tips, but commission-based), a medical office or chiropractic clinic (may offer salary or hourly pay, more stable but possibly lower), a gym or wellness center (could vary greatly) or are self-employed (may be lucrative, but depends on marketing, scheduling and expenses).
- Licensing and regulation:
- Arizona requires state licensure through the Arizona State Board of Massage Therapy. Local municipalities may have additional regulations, but being fully licensed and compliant allows access to more reputable employers and higher-paying positions.
- Retiree population:
- Arizona has a large and growing retiree population, and retirees often seek massage therapy for wellness and chronic pain, increasing consistent demand for services.
- Bilingual skills:
- Being able to speak Spanish or other languages may be a major asset, especially in Phoenix and southern Arizona, which may potentially increase your client base and income.
- Networking and reputation:
- Arizona cities often have tight-knit wellness communities. Word-of-mouth referrals and client loyalty may significantly boost income, especially for independent therapists.
Education path for AZ MTs
Here’s a step-by-step list of the education and licensing path to become a massage therapist in Arizona:
Complete a state-approved massage therapy program:
- After earning a high school diploma or GED, enroll in a massage therapy program.
- You must complete a minimum of 700 hours of massage therapy education from an Arizona Board-approved school.
Pass the national exam:
- Typically the MBLEx (Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination).
Submit your application to the Arizona State Board of Massage Therapy:
- Include transcripts, exam scores, photo ID and fingerprints for background check.
- Pay the required application and licensing fees.
- Once you receive your license it must be approved before you begin practicing.
Renew your license every two years:
- Requires continuing education hours. which are currently set to 25 hours per renewal period in Arizona.
Cost of living in Arizona
As of 2025, Arizona has a Cost of Living Index of 111.5, according to World Population Review. This means the overall cost of living in Arizona is approximately 11.5% higher than the national average, which is indexed at 100.
Every major metro area in Arizona has undergone population growth since 2020, said the World Population Review, which may present opportunity for massage therapists in the state. Here’s a look at Arizona’s housing and utilities cost of living data:
Housing: Housing costs are a significant contributor to the higher cost of living in Arizona. While specific housing index values for Arizona are not provided in the available data, it’s noted that housing is a major factor influencing the overall cost of living.
Utilities and transportation: Arizona’s hot desert climate leads to higher utility costs, especially during the summer months due to increased air conditioning use. Transportation costs can also be higher in sprawling urban areas where public transit options may be limited.
Healthcare and groceries: Healthcare and grocery costs in Arizona are generally close to the national average, though they can vary depending on specific locations within the state.
Arizona resources for massage therapists
The following resources are invaluable for both aspiring and practicing massage therapists in Arizona, providing guidance on licensure, professional development and staying informed about industry regulations and opportunities.
Arizona State Board of Massage Therapy: This is the official regulatory body overseeing massage therapy practice in Arizona. It handles licensing, renewals, compliance and enforcement. The Board’s website provides essential information, including application forms, licensing requirements and updates on regulations.
American Massage Therapy Association Arizona Chapter: This is the state chapter of the national AMTA organization, offering support, advocacy and professional development for massage therapists in Arizona. The chapter provides resources such as continuing education opportunities, legislative updates and networking events.
This massage therapist salary guide for Arizona aims to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the salary landscape and key information regarding the profession. This guide may be used as a starting point to make informed decisions about your career path and for setting realistic expectations for your educational and professional future.