Massage Therapist salary in South Africa

Average Yearly Salary of Massage Therapist in South Africa is approximately 128,720 ZAR (6,439 USD). Data is for 2025 and indicates a pre-tax value. The salary itself depends on multiple factors such as seniority, job performance, certifications, experience or any other bonuses. The value indicated is an average amount based on records we have in database. Real values may vary. The data is for orientational purposes.

What does Massage Therapist do?

A massage therapist is a professional who specializes in providing therapeutic massages to clients. They use various techniques and pressure to manipulate the muscles, tendons, and soft tissues of the body to alleviate pain, reduce stress, improve circulation, and promote overall wellness. Massage therapists typically work in spas, wellness centers, chiropractic offices, or may even be self-employed. Their occupation involves assessing clients' needs, discussing treatment goals, and creating personalized massage plans. During sessions, they apply different massage techniques such as Swedish, deep tissue, sports massage, or aromatherapy, depending on the client's requirements. They may also incorporate hot stones, essential oils, or other therapeutic tools to enhance the massage experience.

Skills: Massage therapist, Therapeutic massage, Pain relief, Stress reduction, Wellness promotion, Self-care.
Job industry: Healthcare

How much does Massage Therapist make?

Difference in salary year over year or average salary increase is approximately 4 %


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Massage Therapist a well paid job?

Yes, our data show that Massage Therapist is an averagely well paid job that still allows for some yearly savings. With years and experience the salary might increase even further, resulting in higher satisfaction.

What is considered a high salary for Massage Therapist?

High salary for Massage Therapist would be somewhere between 141,592 ZAR and 186,644 ZAR. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Massage Therapist in South Africa?

Living in South Africa the approximate monthly expenses are: 271 USD. This amount covers basic needs such as food, housing, clothing, healthcare and education costs for a single person. No luxury expenses such as traveling, leisure, hobbies are included in the estimation.

Estimated Yearly Salary: 128,720 ZAR
Estimated Monthly Salary: 10,727 ZAR
Estimated Weekly Salary: 2,475 ZAR per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 62 ZAR per hour
By working as Massage Therapist a person can save up to 265 USD per month or 3,185 USD yearly. Values are pre-tax.

NOTE: These values are estimates and are averaged for the whole country. Furthermore the value is likely exaggerated as no other expenses are taken into account in the projection. Unessential expenses are very subjective and are difficult to assess. Most likely the previously estimated number is significantly lower for majority of people. Expenses in different cities across the country may vary. Above values accuracy is low and is based on limited set of data obtained.

For more information regarding expenses in South Africa, see costs of living in South Africa.

Salary comparison to region and neighbouring coutries

Country's neighbours are: Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Eswatini, Lesotho.
To make it easier for comparison a conversion from local currency to USD has been made (conversion rates may vary).

Estimated Yearly Salary for Massage Therapist

Last revision of data: 2025-01-04

Salary increase per years of experience

Based on data available the salary increase per years of experience is as following

0 years (beginner) equals base salary

1 to 5 years of experience yields +12% salary increase

6 to 10 years of experience yields +25% salary increase

11 to 15 years of experience yields +16% salary increase

16 to 25 years of experience yields +9% salary increase

more than 25 years of experience yields +10% salary increase

NOTE: Details based on limited set of data. Percentages may vary. The salary increase over years of experience can vary widely based on factors such as job industry, job role, location, company size, and individual performance. To gain even larger increase in salary one is advised to switch jobs and / or employer.

Top 10 highest salaries in South Africa

Data as of 2025

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