Summary
- A 60-minute massage costs $80–140 (US) or £45–85 (UK).
- Match the type to the problem — sports, remedial or relaxation.
- Verify state licensure (US) or professional registration (UK).
- Persistent problems need three to five sessions, not one.
- Deep work should be intense, never sharply painful.
Quick answer
A 60-minute massage costs $80–140 in the US and £45–85 in the UK. Clinical or sports massage sits at the top of that range; relaxation massage at the bottom. For an injury, choose a therapist with a recognised remedial or sports qualification, not a spa.
Typical 2026 prices
| Type | 60 minutes US | 60 minutes UK |
|---|---|---|
| Swedish / relaxation | $70–110 | £40–70 |
| Deep tissue | $85–140 | £50–85 |
| Sports massage | $90–150 | £50–90 |
| Remedial / clinical | $95–160 | £55–95 |
| Pregnancy massage | $85–140 | £50–85 |
| Hot stone | $95–150 | £55–90 |
| Mobile (at your home) | +$20–40 | +£15–30 |
| Course of 5 sessions | 10–15% discount | 10–15% discount |
Which type for which problem
Qualifications to look for
Ask which qualification the therapist holds, whether they are on a professional register, and whether they carry insurance. In the UK, look for membership of a recognised body such as the CNHC or a sports therapy association. In the US, most states require licensure — check the state board and the licence number.
Anyone who diagnoses medical conditions, promises to cure illness or advises stopping prescribed treatment is outside their scope. Leave.
What to expect at a first session
Getting value
Book a course rather than one-offs for a persistent problem; most improvements need three to five sessions. Tell the therapist what changed since last time — that feedback is what makes the next session better. And if a therapist only ever works where it hurts without looking at the surrounding area, try someone else.
Summary
Expect £45–85 or $80–140 for an hour. Match the type to the problem, check licence or professional registration and insurance, and book a short course for anything persistent rather than a single session.