If you want to live and work in a state that offers the best of what bustling cities and small town life have to offer, the state of New York makes an excellent option. Whether you’re a massage therapist in New York City or working in a resort in the Finger Lakes, there’s an excellent lifestyle to be had in New York.

For the most part, New York has a very competitive job market in nearly every field, massage therapy included. That means that there are plenty of people to take your job if you’re not up to the challenge. With this in mind, it’s important to have a solid education in the field of massage therapy, generally as a certificate or degree program. If you have not already obtained one of these, it’s important that you get one. They can be obtained by completing a program in one of New York’s career colleges, four year universities, massage therapy schools, or other educational institutions. These programs will teach you everything you need to know in order to be a successful massage therapist, including massage techniques, business management, ethics, anatomy, kinesiology, history and theory of massage therapy, and more.

While a certificate or degree in massage therapy is almost a requirement for success in New York, they are often expensive programs, with some reaching $9,000 and higher. Many students cannot afford to pay for their education out of pocket, and if that’s the case for you, rest assured that you’re not alone. If you need help paying for school, the New York State Financial Aid Administrators Association can offer assistance. Through this association, you’ll be able to find financial aid in New York, including work study programs, loans, grants, scholarships, and federal aid.

Obviously, the bulk of New York’s massage therapy jobs are located in New York City, however that are a multitude of opportunities beyond the metropolitan area. You’ll find that resorts are particularly rewarding places to find employment, as well as hospitals, spas, and occupational clinics.

Throughout New York, you’ll find a cost of living that is high, and is especially high in New York City. Although the cost of living is high, so are salaries. If you decide to work as a massage therapist in New York City, you can earn between $34,000 and $77,000 per year.

Top Massage Therapy Programs

	Boca Beauty Academy of Massage - If you're interested in becoming a massage therapist, Boca Beauty Academy of Massage offers a fantastic program for students interested in this growing industry.
Cincinnati Cleveland	Center for Massage & Natural Health - The Center for Massage & Natural Health assists students in reaching their goal of becoming a massage therapist affordably and conveniently.
Boston Tampa Scottsdale	Cortiva Institute for Massage - Cortiva Institute for Massage prepares aspiring massage therapists with a rigorous program in the field of massage therapy. With locations available across the country, students can get prepared quickly.
	U.S. Career Institute - At the U.S. Career Institute, students will be taught alternative health treatments to assist people in feeling better. With a number of organizations hiring in various positions, don't pass up this opportunity to go back to school and start a great career.