How Much to Tip for a Massage (or Other Spa Treatment) (2024)

Tip for a Massage

The standard hospitality rate for massage tipping is 20 percent. For example, if a massage or body treatment costs $100, a 20 percent tip would be $20. "You can tip more or less depending on how satisfied you were with the massage," says Schweitzer, who says it's really important to plan ahead and bring cash to tip your massage therapist. "When you pay cash directly to your masseuse, they get to take it home the very same day, instead of waiting for the spa to "tip out" on the therapist's regular paycheck," she says.

Many spas provide small envelopes for tips. Simply write your therapists name on the front and a note that it was from you. No envelopes available? Schweitzer says she always slips her intended cash tip into her spa robe pocket and simply hands it to her therapist after her treatment is over.

Don't forget to simply say thank you. "Telling someone they did a good job is worth its weight in gold," Schweitzer says.

Tip if You're Using a Coupon

If you purchase a series of massages or a deal from a discount site, you should still tip 20 percent on the original price—not the discounted price. "While you may have received a discount, the massage therapist still did the same amount of work, so they deserve a tip on the regular price of the treatment," Post says.

Tip for a Private Massage

Since tips are standard protocol for massage therapists, you should assume a 20 percent tip in any massage or spa treatment situation (unless a self-employed therapist specifically tells you their rate is all-inclusive). Not sure? When in doubt, always ask, says Post, who says tipping is always appreciated.

Tip for a Massage at a Hotel Spa

Some all-inclusive spa destinations, like Canyon Ranch or other destination spas, often include gratuity in their pricing or automatically add it to the final bill. Schweitzer says to always check over your final bill to make sure gratuity was not already added, and to ask the person who checks you in or out of the spa what the tip policy is.

Should You Tip the Owner of the Spa or Salon?

Unless the owner of the spa or salon actually performs the service, there's no reason to tip, says Schweitzer.

Is There Ever a Time Not to Tip?

The only time you should not tip your massage therapist is if you find yourself at an all-inclusive spa where they distinctly say that they have a no-tipping policy.

What about if it wasn't that great an experience? "Even if your massage wasn't the best one you've ever received, it's important to give a tip even if it's less than the standard 20 percent," says Post. If you had a negative experience, speak with the manager or the front desk instead of withholding a tip.

RELATED: How Much to Tip Hairdressers and Stylists

Was this page helpful?

Tell us why!