Massage Therapist in Florida
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for FL
How to Become a Massage Therapist in Florida
To become a Licensed Massage Therapist in Florida, individuals must obtain a state license from the Florida Board of Massage Therapy. Key steps include completing a board-approved massage therapy program of 500 or more clock hours, passing a national licensing examination such as the MBLEx, and submitting an application with a fee of $155. Additionally, applicants must complete specific Florida pre-licensure courses, undergo a background check with fingerprinting, and meet age or education prerequisites. Florida also offers a pathway for licensure by endorsement for experienced massage therapists licensed in other states.
Massage Therapist Requirements in Florida
| Detail | Florida |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Florida Board of Massage Therapy |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | 500-hour training program |
| Exam | Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) or National Certification Exam in Therapeutic Massage (NCETM) ($265) |
| Application Fee | $155 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 24.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | Applicants must be at least 18 years of age or have a high school diploma/GED. A background check and fingerprinting are required. Additionally, applicants must complete a 10-hour Florida Laws and Rules course, a 3-hour HIV/AIDS course, and a 2-hour Prevention of Medical Errors course. |
Source: Florida Board of Massage Therapy
Massage Therapist Salary in Florida
The median massage therapist salary in Florida is $49,880 per year, which is 13.9% below the national median of $57,950.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $26,760 |
| 25th | $38,800 |
| 50th (median) | $49,880 |
| 75th | $56,960 |
| 90th (experienced) | $74,490 |
Florida employs approximately 7,660 massage therapists.
Massage Therapist Job Outlook
AI Impact on Massage Therapists
Low AI Exposure (Score: -1.41/1.00)
This career has low exposure to AI automation. Most tasks require physical presence, human judgment, or hands-on skills that AI cannot easily replicate.
Is Becoming a Massage Therapist in Florida Worth It?
Factors to consider: Florida's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, strong job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.