How Much to Tip A Massage?
Updated 2026-05-23 · 2026 U.S. tipping standard
Tip 18–20% on the full menu price of a massage — $20 on a $100 hour-long session. Use the menu price even when you paid less because of a membership or package discount. Medical or sports massages at a clinic (not a spa) are not customarily tipped — when in doubt, ask the front desk.
Tip calculator
U.S. norm is to tip on the pre-tax subtotal.
Advanced — tip on pre-tax amount
- Tip
- $0.00
- Bill (tipped on)
- $0.00
- Each person
- $0.00
- Each tip share
- $0.00
Enter a bill amount above to calculate.
What's normal for massage?
- Spa massage: 18–20% of menu price.
- Hotel or resort spa: 18–20% — check for a service charge already added.
- Mobile massage to your home: 20% is the norm.
- Medical / clinical massage: optional, often not done.
When to tip more
- Therapist customized for an injury or specific need.
- Deep-tissue or other physically demanding work.
When a smaller tip is reasonable
- Therapist late or inattentive without acknowledgement.
Worked example
On a $100 massage bill at the standard 20%, the calculator above shows the exact tip and total — adjust the bill or percent to match your own situation, and split it among multiple people using the stepper.
Massage tipping FAQ
Is the tip included in spa pricing?
Sometimes — a service charge of 15–20% may already be added. Check your bill.
Do I tip on a Groupon massage?
Yes, on the full original price — not the discounted Groupon price.
Tip cash or card?
Cash goes directly to the therapist; card tips are routed through the spa.
What's a fair tip on a $90 massage?
$16–$18 at 18–20%.