Atlanta vs Augusta: Massage Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare massage therapist salaries between Atlanta, GA and Augusta, GA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Atlanta, GA | Augusta, GA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $51,541 | $62,346▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $24.78 | $29.97▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $20,156 | $44,077▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $35,775 | $50,651▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $85,863▲ | $78,727 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $87,284 | $94,112▲ |
| Total Employed | 1,220▲ | 130 |
Verdict
Augusta, GA offers better overall compensation for massage therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Atlanta.
The salary gap between Atlanta and Augusta is $10,805 (20.96%). Augusta's median is +0.60% compared to the US national median of $61,975.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Atlanta spans $67,128,Augusta spans $50,035. Atlanta has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Augusta ($67,839 effective) pays 31.70% more than Atlanta ($51,511 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Atlanta if…
- ✓Larger job market (1,220 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Choose Augusta if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($62,346/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($94,112)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $67,839)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, massage therapist salaries in Atlanta grew 122.2% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 29.5% growth in Augusta over the same period.
Atlanta, GA
$21,880 (2019) → $48,610 (2025)
Augusta, GA
$45,410 (2019) → $58,800 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Atlanta, GA
Augusta, GA
Frequently Asked Questions
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Written by Jordan Lee, LMT
Career Analyst
Jordan Lee has 10 years of experience in massage therapy. They specialize in sports massage. They work in a wellness center.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 6.03% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Jordan Lee, LMT, a licensed massage therapist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov