The Growing Demand for Massage Therapists

If you're considering a career in massage therapy, there has never been a better time to explore the profession. As more people prioritize wellness, stress management, pain relief, and preventive healthcare, demand for qualified massage therapists continues to grow across the country.

Massage therapy is no longer viewed as an occasional luxury. Today, it is widely recognized as an important part of overall health and wellness. As awareness of its benefits increases, so does the need for trained professionals who can provide safe, effective care.

A Growing Profession Backed by Demand

According to the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA), there were an estimated 355,075 massage therapists practicing in the United States in 2025. While that may sound like a large number, it represents roughly one massage therapist for every 950 to 1,000 people nationwide.

Closer to home, Illinois had approximately 9,583 active licensed massage therapists serving a population of about 12.7 million residents in 2025. That works out to approximately one licensed massage therapist for every 1,325 people in the state.

These numbers highlight an important reality: although massage therapy is growing, there are still far fewer therapists than the number of people who could benefit from regular massage and bodywork services.

Employment Growth Is Outpacing Most Careers

Current demand is strong, but future projections are equally encouraging.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment for massage therapists to grow 15% between 2024 and 2034. By comparison, the average projected growth rate for all occupations is approximately 3%.  This means massage therapy is expected to grow at a rate nearly five times faster than the overall job market.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics also projects approximately 24,700 massage therapy job openings each year during that period due to growth and workforce turnover.

Why More People Are Seeking Massage Therapy

Several trends continue to drive demand for massage services.

People increasingly seek massage therapy for:

• Stress management and relaxation

• Relief from muscle tension and soreness

• Chronic pain management

• Recovery from injuries

• Improved mobility and flexibility

• Overall health and wellness support

Consumers are becoming more proactive about their health and are looking for natural, non-invasive ways to improve their well-being. Massage therapy fits well within this growing wellness-focused lifestyle.

Growing Recognition Within Healthcare

Massage therapy is also gaining recognition within healthcare settings.

Physicians, physical therapists, chiropractors, and other healthcare providers increasingly recommend massage as part of a comprehensive approach to patient care. Consumer acceptance of massage therapy as healthcare continues to grow as well. According to the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA), 86% of consumers agree that massage therapy should be considered a form of health care. Additionally, among consumers who discussed massage therapy with their doctor or medical provider, 22% were referred to a massage therapist.

Many individuals now include massage therapy alongside exercise, nutrition, and other wellness practices as part of their long-term health plans. As healthcare professionals and consumers continue to recognize its benefits, demand for qualified massage therapists is expected to remain strong.

The growing acceptance of massage therapy within both healthcare and wellness settings creates additional opportunities for trained professionals entering the field.

What This Means for Future Massage Therapists

For individuals considering a career in massage therapy, these trends create exciting opportunities.

Growing consumer demand, strong employment projections, and increasing acceptance within healthcare all point toward a profession with long-term potential.

Whether you hope to work in a spa, wellness center, chiropractic office, healthcare setting, or private practice, there is a growing need for skilled and compassionate massage therapists.

Start Your Journey

The demand for massage therapy continues to rise as more people prioritize their physical and mental well-being.

If you're interested in a career that combines science, wellness, and helping others, now is the perfect time to explore massage therapy training.

At Premier Spa Training Academy, we help students develop the knowledge, confidence, and hands-on skills needed to begin a successful career in massage therapy. Schedule a school visit and discover where a future in wellness could take you.