The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) anticipates that the demand for massage therapists will increase by 18% in the next decade. That rate is considered “much higher than the average” job growth for all careers (2025, Job Outlook). According to the bureau’s statistics, roughly 22,800 new positions for massage therapists will be created every year in the decade between 2023 and 2033.
To put those numbers in context, all other healthcare support jobs are projected to have a 12% growth in employment for the coming decade. The average for all occupations across the board is projected at just 4% (BLS, 2025, Job Outlook tab).
Today we’re considering the importance of job outlook data as well as the driving factors behind positive predictions for massage therapy.
Why should workers consider job outlook predictions when selecting a career?
Job outlook describes future demand. It is a good indicator of whether a new worker will be able to find a position in their chosen career. A healthy job outlook also implies job security and advancement opportunities. According to the 2024 Best Jobs Report from U.S. News and World Report, the unemployment rate among massage therapists is just 1.6%.
Fields with a strong job outlook will also tend to have ongoing training opportunities. For instance, clock and watch repair is one of the lowest-rated professions according to current predictions. Because demand for this profession is low, fewer continuing education opportunities exist.
There are a few things to keep in mind about the limitations of job outlook data. First, the fact that there is high demand does not indicate market saturation. Your area may have many others with valid credentials, increasing competition for open positions. Secondly, economic factors change, shifting demand. For example, the current presidential administration is de-prioritizing access to solar power (Reuters, 2025). As such, the predicted 52% growth rate for solar photovoltaic installers may decrease (University of the Potomac, para 24).
What is driving the positive job outlook for massage therapists?
More spas and massage clinics. According to U.S. News and World Report, the growing number of massage businesses is a factor in positive job outlook for massage therapists. (U.S. Best Jobs, n.d.).
Demand for Pain Relief. Massage therapy is increasingly sought after as an accepted method of managing pain naturally and safely (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).
Replacing Current LMTs. The BLS suggests that there will be a need to replace workers who are retiring or exiting the massage therapy profession.
Considering a Career in Massage? What the Job Projection Numbers Mean for You.
A positive job outlook suggests educational investment is likely to pay off. If you’ve been dreaming about becoming an LMT, consider this your sign that now is the time. Our admissions staff would be delighted to get you started with a campus tour, funding information, and any other questions you might have. Call us at 503-233-6500 to connect, or visit East West College admissions online to learn more.
Sources
Reuters. (2025, August 7). Trump administration will end $7 billion solar energy grant program. https://www.reuters.com/legal/litigation/trump-administration-will-end-7-billion-solar-energy-grant-program-2025-08-07/
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025, April 19). Massage Therapists. Occupational outlook handbook. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/massage-therapists.htm
U.S. News and World Report. (n.d.) Massage Therapists. 2024 Best Jobs Rankings. https://money.usnews.com/careers/best-jobs/massage-therapist
University of the Potomac. (2023, December 8). Career guide: What is a job outlook? https://potomac.edu/what-is-a-job-outlook/#:~:text=What%20can%20I%20do%20if,industry%20demand%2C%20and%20specialized%20skills
