How much should you tip for a massage?

Asked by: Arely Howell  |  Last update: July 27, 2025
Score: 4.8/5 (65 votes)

A good rule of thumb for tipping in the massage industry is between 15% and 20% of the total service cost, which is the standard practice in the broader service industry. This range is widely accepted as a standard gesture of appreciation for satisfactory to excellent service, and is a perfectly acceptable tip.

How much do you tip for a 60 minute massage?

Many people tip around 15-20% of the massage cost.

This range is a good starting point and is commonly accepted across different settings: at-home or mobile therapists, franchise spas or clinics, or an individual massage therapist. If you're unsure, it's always a safe bet to stick within this range.

Is it rude not to tip a massage therapist?

It is generally considered rude not to tip a massage therapist. Tipping is a customary way to show appreciation for their skill and service. A standard practice is to tip 15-20% of the total cost of the massage, but it can vary based on your satisfaction and the therapist's performance.

Is $15 a good tip for a massage?

A general guideline for tipping after a massage is 15-20% of the service cost. For a 2-hour massage, the cost could vary depending on the location and type of massage, but assuming the cost is $100, a 15-20% tip would be $15-$20.

How much to tip for a 2 hour massage?

A general guideline for tipping after a massage is 15-20% of the service cost. For a 2-hour massage, the cost could vary depending on the location and type of massage, but assuming the cost is $100, a 15-20% tip would be $15-$20.

How Much Should You Tip for A Massage?

44 related questions found

Is $20 a good tip for massage?

Calculating Tips for Different Service Costs

To keep the math simple, tipping 20% makes it easy to calculate and ensures you're on the generous end of the gratuity spectrum. For a $100 massage, a $20 tip is both generous and straightforward to figure out.

What is proper etiquette when getting a massage?

10 tips to get the most from your massage
  1. Be as receptive and open to the massage process as possible.
  2. Don't eat just before a massage session. ...
  3. Be on time. ...
  4. Take off only as much clothing as you are comfortable removing. ...
  5. Communicate with your massage therapist. ...
  6. Remember to breathe normally.

Do massage therapists prefer cash tips?

Cash tips are preferred by most massage therapists as they provide immediate gratification and may help with income reporting for independent contractors.

Where to leave tip after massage?

After your massage is over, the massage therapist leaves the room, you get dressed, and come out of the room. The therapist should be waiting there with some water for you to drink and to walk you back out to the front desk. That's when you hand them the tip.

How much does a 90 minute massage cost?

Here is a summary of the average cost of massage therapy based on the duration of the session: 30 minutes: $30 to $65. 60 minutes: $50 to $130. 90 minutes: $90 to $175.

How much do you tip a girl for massage?

We spoke to two etiquette experts, who suggested leaving a 15% to 20% tip, if you're able. Twenty percent is generous for the massage therapist and easy on the brain, which may be feeling more relaxed than ever after a massage. The math is straightforward.

What is the difference between Swedish and deep tissue massage?

Stroke Style: Swedish massage focuses on longer, more fluid strokes. The deep tissue massage technique uses more pinpointed and broad strokes. Areas of Focus: The relaxing Swedish massage is usually a full body experience. Deep tissue massage typically focuses on problem areas.

Is 10% tip good for massage?

Since tips are standard protocol for a private masseuse, you should assume a 20 percent tip in any massage or spa treatment situation (unless a self-employed therapist specifically tells you their rate is all-inclusive).

Is $40 a good tip for a massage?

General Tipping Guidelines

“If you're at a day spa, it's appropriate to tip 15-20% of the bill”, says Navrajvir Singh, owner of Lakeview and Palm Tree. So if your treatment costed $200, it's appropriate to tip $30. You can go higher and tip $40 if the therapist provided exceptional service.

What is it called when a masseuse comes to your house?

There are many names for a massage therapist that comes to your home or office like Mobile massage, In home massage, or traveling massage therapists.

Are you supposed to take everything off for a massage?

It is possible to receive a massage fully clothed. Your massage therapist can perform your massage service regardless of attire. While they will still be able to work on your body, you may miss out on the thoroughness that comes when your therapist addresses the whole muscle, end-to-end.

Do I tip my chiropractor?

Unlike a massage therapist at the spa, tipping your chiropractor is unnecessary. Chiropractors are healthcare professionals who help with muscle and bone problems. When you visit them, it's like going to see your regular doctor. You don't tip your regular doctor, and the same goes for chiropractors.

How many massages should a therapist do a day?

How many appointments you have in a day depends on your availability and scheduling preferences, but most full-time therapists will see around five clients a day with massage appointments typically lasting between 60 and 90 minutes.

How much do massage therapists make in tips?

In general, massage therapists who do earn tips receive tips that are between 15 and 20% of the cost of the massage.

How to get the most out of your massage?

Our Top 10 Tips to Make the Most of Your Massage
  1. Be on time. And remember to slow down when you get here! ...
  2. Not too hungry, not too full. ...
  3. Drink plenty of water. ...
  4. Communicate. ...
  5. Undress to your comfort level. ...
  6. Be present, allow yourself to quiet. ...
  7. Let go. ...
  8. Breathe.

Is a massage good or a waste of money?

Massage is good for you, although there's little proof that the main benefits are the ones most commonly talked about. Even one session of massage therapy can influence symptoms of depression and anxiety, with regular sessions increasing the effect.

What not to say during a massage?

Here are some examples of what you, as the client, should never do! :
  • Don't joke if this is a “happy ending" massage or make any sexual comments. ...
  • Don't get sexually excited, it's inappropriate. ...
  • Don't break wind. ...
  • Avoid talking too much. ...
  • Don't use your phone. ...
  • Don't be under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

What do they touch in a full body massage?

A full-body massage doesn't have to include your sensitive areas. You can say which parts of your body you don't want to be touched. A full-body massage usually includes your arms, legs, hands and feet, your neck and back, your stomach and buttocks.

What is the 1st rule of massage therapy?

The first rule of massage therapy is to ensure the comfort and safety of the client. This includes creating a comfortable and relaxing environment, using proper techniques and pressure, and communicating effectively with the client to ensure that they are comfortable with the massage.