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How much do massage therapists cost?

$55 - $110

    Cost of hiring a massage therapist

    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.

    Setting a budget for your massage therapy

    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.

    Male masseuse gently massages the neck of a female patient laying on her side.

    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.

    Woman uses her elbows to massage the top of a patients back.

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

    Other factors affecting the cost of your job

    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.

    Does the cost vary based on location?

    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: 

    State/Territory Average reported ost
    Australia Capital Territory $120
    New South Wales $70 – $300 
    Queensland $40 – $100 
    South Australia $85
    Victoria $40 – $300
    Western Australia $65 – $95

    How to hire a massage therapist

    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

    FAQ

    What is a Swedish massage?

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    Swedish massage techniques are gentle and use long strokes on the muscles to promote tension relief and relaxation. Swedish massages are very common and sometimes are referred to in spas as a classic massage.

    What is a Thai massage?

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    A Thai massage takes place on the floor, rather than a massage table, with no oils and the client is clothed. This type of massage involves muscle compression and stretching techniques, rather than rubbing motions.

    What is Lomi Lomi massage?

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    Lomi Lomi massage is an ancient Hawaiian form of massage. The technique involves long and continuous strokes along the body that encourages the participant to very deeply relax while also solving muscle tension.

    Real Oneflare customer quotes

    Laurie's massage job

    Location PinAdelaide, SA
    Purpose

    Relaxation and destress

    Areas of focus

    Arms, hands, head and neck

    Speciality

    Chinese medicine and acupuncture

    $85inc. gst

    Quoted by Chinese Traditional Clinic

    Scott's massage job

    Location PinSunshine Coast, QLD
    Type of massage

    Remedial massage

    Areas of focus

    Full body

    Type of service

    Mobile massage

    $85inc. gst

    Quoted by BMS Fitness (Mobile Remedial Massage)

    Jannette's massage job

    Location PinCentral Coast Sydney, NSW
    Type of massage

    Relaxation massage

    Areas of focus

    Back

    Past conditions or issues

    Has had multiple back fusions

    $70inc. gst

    Quoted by Romero Therapy

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