How Much Do Massage Therapists Make in Canada?

Massage therapy is one of the most popular and fastest-growing healthcare professions in Canada. According to Statistics, there were more than 10,000 massage therapists practicing across the country in 2022, representing a 7% increase from 2018. With a wide array of potential benefits for both physical and mental health, it’s no wonder why so many people are turning to massage therapy as an alternative form of healing.

But how much does a massage therapist make in Canada? That depends on several factors including region, experience level and type of practice. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what goes into determining the salary for Canadian massage therapists so you can determine if this profession is right for you.

Salary Range for A Massage Therapist in Canada

In Canada, the average salary for a massage therapist is between $18 to $38 per hour. However, there are many factors that can impact this number including geographical location, experience level and type of practice.

For example, massage therapists in Alberta typically make higher wages than those in other provinces due to their province’s higher cost of living. Additionally, massage therapists who work in spas and resorts or those who specialize in certain techniques such as deep tissue massage typically command higher salaries than general practitioners.

Finally, the experience level of a massage therapist also plays a role in salary. Those with more years of experience are often able to negotiate higher rates.

Massage Therapist Salaries by Province

The salary range for massage therapists in Canada can vary significantly by province.

• In Ontario, massage therapists make around $42 per hour.
• In British Columbia, the average salary is $60 per hour.
• In Alberta, the salary is $33.50 per hour.
• Manitoba’s salary for massage therapists is around $51.50 per hour.
• Saskatchewan has a salary of around $32.82per hour.
• Finally, in the Maritimes such as in Nova Scotia, salaries hover around the lower end of the scale at around $27.50 per hour.

In addition to these figures, many massage therapists also receive tips from their clients, which can further increase their earnings.

How Much Does a Massage Therapist Make in Quebec?

The province of Quebec has a higher-than-average salary for massage therapists. The average pay is $48.41 per hour, although salaries can range from as low as $14.53 to as high as $66.76 depending on experience and location. Furthermore, massage therapists in Montreal tend to make more than those in other parts of the province, with wages averaging around $40.14 per hour.

This is an attractive salary for those considering massage therapy in Quebec. Massage therapists can benefit from the province’s competitive pay and attractive lifestyle opportunities. For instance, Montreal is home to many cultural activities and vibrant nightlife scenes, making it a great place to work as a massage therapist. Plus, there is no shortage of potential clientele in the province, making it an ideal place to start a massage therapy career.

Factors That Influence Massage Therapist Salaries

The salary for massage therapists in Canada is largely determined by a few key factors.

Geographical location plays a role

Provinces like Alberta and Ontario have higher pay rates than those in the Maritimes or even Quebec. This is due to the higher cost of living in these regions. And cities like Montreal, with its strong economy and a wide array of cultural offerings, tend to pay higher salaries than other parts of the province.

Qualification and experience level

Generally speaking, massage therapists who have more years of experience can command higher salaries than those just starting out. This is due in part to the fact that experienced practitioners typically have a larger client base and more specialized massage therapist skills.

For instance, those who are trained in Swedish massage or sports massage from an accredited massage therapy school can often command higher rates than those with more general expertise. This is especially true for those working in spas or resorts, where the clientele is expecting a higher caliber of service.

Type of practice

The type of practice also plays a role when it comes to salary. For example, massage therapists who work in private practices typically make more than those who are employed by spas and resorts. This is because private practitioners often have more freedom to set their own rates, while those in spas and resorts are typically bound by the establishment’s policies.

Owning a business vs. being employed in a clinic

Finally, massage therapists who are self-employed have a higher earning potential than those who are employed by clinics. This is due to the fact that entrepreneurs can set their own rates and attract more clients. Plus, they don’t need to pay for overhead if they are working from home, such as clinic rent or employee benefits.

When it comes to specialties like Swedish massage training or kinesitherapy, self-employed massage therapists can offer more competitive prices than spas and clinics, allowing them to attract more clientele.

In addition to these factors, massage therapists can also increase their earnings by gaining additional certifications or expanding their services. Having more certifications under their belts allows them to charge higher rates and appeal to a wider range of potential clients. By doing so, they can maximize their earning potential and further their career as a massage therapist in Canada. This is why continuing education is so important in the massage therapy industry.

Become a Massage Therapist with IKRA Academy of Massage Therapy

If you’re looking to become a massage therapist and want to know how much does a massage therapist make in Quebec, then IKRA Academy of Massage Therapy’s programs are the place to start. At IKRA, you’ll receive comprehensive instruction on all aspects of massage therapy so that you can be sure of delivering quality services when you begin your career.

At IKRA, you’ll learn about massage techniques and strategies for growing your massage business, or preparing you for your first job interview at a spa. You’ll also be taught about the range of practices related to massage therapy such as anatomy and pathology, professional practice, assessment and treatment planning, therapeutic exercises, nutrition and lifestyle counselling. Through our comprehensive curriculum and experienced instructors, IKRA ensures that you are fully prepared to become a successful massage therapist.

Contact us today to find out more about how much massage therapists make and start your journey toward becoming a massage therapist. With their help, you’ll soon be able to enjoy the financial rewards that comes with this rewarding career path!