Massage Therapist Salary in Knoxville, Tennessee
The median massage therapist salary in Knoxville, TN is $43,877 per year, which is 12% below the national median and 1.1% below the Tennessee state average.
Massage Therapist Pay in Knoxville: What to Expect (2026)
Knoxville offers a median massage therapist salary of $43,877, which is $498 below the Tennessee state average of $44,375. Compared to the national median of $49,860, Knoxville pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Knoxville's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 88% of the national average. This means the $43,877 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $49,860 in an average-cost city. This makes Knoxville an attractive option for massage therapists seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for massage therapists in Knoxville spans from $24,640 at the 10th percentile to $77,440 at the 90th percentile — a $52,800 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $26,400, while senior massage therapists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $72,160. With a population of 190,740, Knoxville is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Massage Therapist Salary in Knoxville by Experience
In Knoxville, an entry-level massage therapist earns around $26,400, while experienced professionals earn up to $72,160 per year. The local cost of living index is 88% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Knoxville, TN
| Percentile | Knoxville |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $24,640 |
| 25th Percentile | $31,680 |
| Median (50th) | $43,877 |
| 75th Percentile | $59,840 |
| 90th Percentile | $77,440 |
Massage Therapist Salary in Other Tennessee Cities
How to Become a Massage Therapist in Knoxville
Education
Most massage therapist positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Knoxville and the surrounding Tennessee area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, massage therapist employment is projected to grow 18% over the next decade (much faster than average). Demand in Knoxville may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Massage Therapist Jobs in Knoxville
Browse open massage therapist positions in Knoxville, TN: