How much do massage therapists cost?

With different types of massages varying in technique such as shiatsu, hot stone, deep tissue or aromatherapy, it makes sense that the price will vary quite a lot. Every type of massage solves a different issue – whether that may be to stress relief or help rehabilitate damaged muscle. An experienced masseuse should listen to your needs and determine the best way to solve your problem. The region will also have a significant impact on cost, the more urban areas tend to jump up in price because of operational costs. The average cost for a massage in Australia is estimated at between $55 to $100 per session.

Relaxation – $55 – $105 average reported cost
This massage is designed to calm you down and soothe tension. It usually consists of flowing strokes, kneading of the muscles and a gentle touch that is executed at your chosen pressure. Comparatively, it’s a pain-free way to clear your mind and relax your body. The benefits of relaxation massages include temporarily lowering your blood pressure.

Remedial – $60 – $105 average reported cost
This kind of massage is aimed at treating pre-existing injuries or tension. These massages can be similar to relaxation, however, a remedial massage is more focused on relieving pain in a particular muscle region. Your masseuse should assess your muscles to determine where the problem or pain is coming from, and perform to relieve the pain accordingly. Remedial massages may involve some deep tissue techniques to relieve the stress effectively.

An example of a remedial massage technique. | Source: Wade The Massage Guy

Sports Massage – $60 – $110 average reported cost
Sports massages target specific ailments of athletes. It is used to either prevent or treat sports-related injuries, as well as keeping the athlete’s body in optimal shape and condition. Sports massage services have three basic forms; pre-event massage, post-event massage, and maintenance massage

Deep Tissue Massage – $60 – $110 average reported cost
This type of massage uses intense pressure to affect the fascia and connective tissues. It is designed to relieve muscle tension and pain, and other benefits include recovery from an injury and improved posture. Deep tissue massages can be painful, however, the short term pain is all for a long term gain on your overall well-being and health.

An example of a deep tissue massage. | Source: Sara Jane Cleland

When you are booking a massage, along with the type of massage you require, there are a variety of factors that will affect the price. The principal factors being, proximity to the massage therapist, how long you want to be treated, frequency of the treatments and whether or not you require an additional treatments.

Location
Depending on whether the masseuse you hire has their own space, works from a spa or studio or works mobile will affect the price. Spas and studios may be able to provide a host of additional services but will have to contend with overhead costs as well, increasing the price. Massages provided in your own home may incur a travel fee depending on the proximity of your home to the masseuses’ business.

Duration
The duration of the massage is a key factor in determining the price of the job. Typically massage sessions last 60 minutes with longer sessions, treating multiple areas, lasting for 90 minutes. Whether the business charges by the hour or as a single fee may also affect the price quoted.

Frequency
If you are looking to make regular appointments with a massage therapist there will be an impact on the price. You will ultimately be paying more than a one-off, however, you may find that the cost of each session comes down in prices with the guarantee of a longer contract.

Specialisation
Depending on the treatment required you may need to find a specialised masseuse. That specialisation often requires an extra level of training and, in some cases, certification on the behalf of the masseuse. Remedial massage, acupressure or reflexology all require a greater level of specialisation and will, in turn, incur a higher cost. Make sure you know what you are looking for from your masseuse in order to make sure that you don’t end up paying more for something that you don’t need.

Additional treatments
Some masseuses will offer add ons alongside their massage treatment. Hot stone treatment, acupuncture, ear candling are common and will incur an additional charge if they are applied.

Massage prices can be changed based on the type of massage you’re wishing to have, length of your massage or whether you’re looking for a mobile service home. Below are quotes Oneflare customers have received ranging from full-body massages to organising a massage party for an event: 

Qualifications
Professional masseuses undertake training and education to gain the knowledge and skills to provide a quality service. Hiring a qualified masseuse can be beneficial in the business determining your specific needs and tailoring their service to solve any complications.

What’s their specialty?
Hire a business that specifies which area they mainly perform massages in. For example, a massage business may specialise in sports massage or reflexology, and another in aromatherapy, hot stone massages, Thai or Swedish massages. These types differ greatly and it’s rare that you’ll find a masseuse that can do it all.

Location arrangements
Most often, you’ll have to go into the massage business to receive the service. However, depending on the business, it’s possible that they can come to you if that’s what you prefer. If you have to travel to them, make sure they’re within desired distance, and alternatively, if you want your massage in the comfort of your own home, make sure the business provides the option of a home visit.

Past customer reviews
Reading past customer reviews will give you the ability to effectively indicate if they are a competent and capable worker that can get the job done smoothly and brilliantly.

* The cost data is based on Oneflare and third-party sources