Massage Model

How much do you tip a massage therapist?

I'm either getting a 30 minute massage for 50 dollars or a 45 minute massage for 65. How much do you tip if a therapist does a good job, average, or poor? I have never had a massage so I'm not sure how much you tip and should I get a 30 minute or 45 minute session?

Public Comments

1. 30 minutes - good job would get $5-6. 45 minutes - good job would get around $9. If it was average, then I would give $4 for the 30 and $7 for the 45 minute. Don't feel pressured.
2. You don't tip people who earn $50-65 and hour.
3. First, make sure you know this: Most massage therapists do NOT make the full amount of the massage, they usually make a percentage of it, which even then can vary a lot. They might even make less than that depending on the things they have to pay for (rent for the space, supplies, etc). I know MT's who make less than minimum wage when its averaged out. The majority of them also pay their own taxes meaning even if she got $20 dollars for each massage she would actually only MAKE $16. Also realize that Massage therapists can not work 8 hours a day, like most people work in other less physical jobs. Tipping is really your own preference when it comes to an amount. If you feel they did a great job, then give them a little more than you would have originally. If they did poorly, give them a very small one (if it was awful then dont feel like you need to tip at all). I have clients who tip all the time, some who tip occasionally, and some who never do, all ranging from $0-$40 for an hour ($50 is what i charge for an hour). The average amount I get tipped is $10 for an hour. But again, any tip is going to make them feel appreciated for their hard work and it is up to you to decide what it was worth.