Barnstable vs Worcester: Massage Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare massage therapist salaries between Barnstable, MA and Worcester, MA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Barnstable, MA | Worcester, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $60,294▲ | $52,591 |
| Hourly Rate | $28.99▲ | $25.29 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $34,971▲ | $34,226 |
| 25th Percentile | $47,242 | $49,961▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $77,176▲ | $69,375 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $93,456▲ | $87,570 |
| Total Employed | 8 | 250▲ |
Verdict
Barnstable, MA offers better overall compensation for massage therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Worcester.
The salary gap between Barnstable and Worcester is $7,703 (14.65%). Barnstable's median is -2.71% compared to the US national median of $61,975.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Barnstable spans $58,485,Worcester spans $53,344. Barnstable 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, Barnstable ($55,571 effective) pays 8.33% more than Worcester ($51,297 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Barnstable if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($60,294/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($93,456)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $55,571)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Choose Worcester if…
- ✓Larger job market (250 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, massage therapist salaries in Barnstable grew -10.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 33.6% growth in Worcester over the same period.
Barnstable, MA
$63,281 (2024) → $56,865 (2025)
Worcester, MA
$37,120 (2019) → $49,600 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Barnstable, MA
Worcester, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays massage therapists more: Barnstable or Worcester?
What is the hourly rate difference between Barnstable and Worcester?
Should I relocate from Barnstable to Worcester as a massage therapist?
What do entry-level massage therapists earn in Barnstable vs Worcester?
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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