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How much should you tip for a massage? It’s a common question with no easy answer. Check out our blog post for a breakdown of what to consider when tipping for a massage.
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Introduction
When you get a massage, the quality of the service will usually dictate how much you should tip. A good rule of thumb is to tip 15-20% of the cost of the massage. For example, if you paid $100 for a one-hour massage, a 15% tip would be $15.
If you received exceptional service or if you had a more expensive massage, you may want to tip a higher percentage. You may also want to tip more if you received extra services such as hot stones or aromatherapy.
If you were unhappy with your massage or felt that the therapist did not meet your expectations, you can still leave a small tip of $5-$10.
Remember, tipping is always optional and it is up to you to decide how much to give.
Tipping for a Massage in the U.S.
In the U.S., it is customary to tip your massage therapist 15-20% of the cost of the massage. So, if you had a 60-minute massage that cost $100, you would tip $15-$20.
Tipping for a Massage at a Spa
Tipping for a massage at a spa is not required, but appreciated. If you received an excellent massage and would like to show your appreciation with a tip, 15-20% of the service cost is standard. For example, if your massage cost $100, a 15-20% tip would be $15-20.
Tipping for a Massage at a Hotel
If you receive a massage at a hotel, it is common to tip 15-20% of the total bill. If you received exceptional service, you may want to tip more. For example, if your massage bill was $100 and you wanted to give a 20% tip, you would add $20 to the bill, for a total of $120.
Tipping for a Massage at a Salon
In the United States, it is customary to leave a 15-20% tip for good service at a salon. If you receive a spa service such as a massage, facial, or body treatment, it is common to leave an additional $5-10 for the technician.
At high-end spas or salons, it is not uncommon to see a sign that reads “Gratuities are Not Included in the Price of Services.” This means that the tips are not built into the cost of the service and are greatly appreciated by salon staff.
Tipping for a Massage Outside the U.S.
When getting a massage outside of the United States, it is common to tip the massage therapist. In most cases, you should tip 10-20% of the total cost of the massage. For example, if the massage costs $100, you would tip $10-$20.
Tipping for a Massage in Europe
In Europe, tipping for a massage is not common practice and is usually not expected by the massage therapist. If you feel that you received an exceptional massage and would like to show your appreciation with a tip, it is acceptable to do so. However, it is not expected or required.
Tipping for a Massage in Asia
In Asia, it is not customary to tip for a massage. If you do feel the need to show your appreciation with a gratuity, a 10 percent tip is sufficient.
Conclusion
After considering all of the factors above, we would recommend tipping 15-20% for a massage. If you had a particularly good experience or felt that your therapist went above and beyond, you could consider increasing your tip to 20-25%.