Massage Therapist Salary in Arkansas
The median massage therapist salary in Arkansas is $41,882 per year, which is 16% below the national median of $49,860.
Massage Therapist Salary Overview in Arkansas (2026)
Arkansas ranks #48 out of 50 states for massage therapist compensation. Massage Therapist salaries in Arkansas are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $41,882 per year, massage therapists in Arkansas earn $7,978 less than the national median of $49,860.
A key advantage of working in Arkansas is its below-average cost of living (84% of the national index). This means the $41,882 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $49,860 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Arkansas is significant: massage therapists at the 10th percentile earn $23,520, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $73,920 — a $50,400 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Arkansas for this role is Fayetteville, where the median reaches $43,877.
Nationally, massage therapist employment is projected to grow 18% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Arkansas and beyond.
Massage Therapist Salary in Arkansas by Experience
In Arkansas, an entry-level massage therapist earns around $25,200, while experienced professionals earn up to $68,880 per year. The cost of living index in Arkansas is 84% of the national average.
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Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Arkansas
| Percentile | AR Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $23,520 |
| 25th Percentile | $30,240 |
| Median (50th) | $41,882 |
| 75th Percentile | $57,120 |
| 90th Percentile | $73,920 |
Massage Therapist Salary by City in Arkansas
The largest employment areas for massage therapists in Arkansas include Little Rock, Fort Smith, Fayetteville, and Springdale. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Massage Therapist in Arkansas
Education
Most massage therapist positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Arkansas has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Arkansas
Nationally, massage therapist employment is projected to grow 18% over the next decade (much faster than average). Arkansas's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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