High Point vs Raleigh: Massage Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare massage therapist salaries between High Point, NC and Raleigh, NC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | High Point, NC | Raleigh, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $66,031 | $75,790▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $31.75 | $36.44▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $38,489 | $43,112▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $49,078 | $62,643▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $84,520 | $91,207▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $102,349▲ | $101,025 |
| Total Employed | 23 | 650▲ |
Verdict
Raleigh, NC offers better overall compensation for massage therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to High Point.
The salary gap between High Point and Raleigh is $9,759 (14.78%). Raleigh's median is +22.29% compared to the US national median of $61,975.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in High Point spans $63,860,Raleigh spans $57,913. High Point 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, Raleigh ($77,213 effective) pays 9.45% more than High Point ($70,546 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose High Point if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($102,349)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Raleigh if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($75,790/year)
- ✓Larger job market (650 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $77,213)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, massage therapist salaries in High Point grew 59.3% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 86.5% growth in Raleigh over the same period.
High Point, NC
$39,094 (2024) → $62,276 (2025)
Raleigh, NC
$38,320 (2019) → $71,480 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
High Point, NC
Raleigh, NC
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