How Much Do Acupuncturists Make?

Acupuncturists in the United States earn an average annual salary of $84,260, according to recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. With over 9,300 professionals employed in this field, acupuncture continues to gain recognition as a complementary health care practice.

These skilled practitioners use ancient Chinese techniques to promote healing and relieve pain by inserting thin needles into specific points on the body. Acupuncturists often work alongside other health care professionals to provide holistic treatment options for various conditions. In this article, we'll explore the world of acupuncture as a career, examining how salaries and job opportunities vary across different regions of the country. We'll also compare this profession to similar roles in alternative medicine and traditional health care, offering valuable insights for those considering a career in acupuncture or looking to understand the financial prospects of this growing field.

Highest Paying States for Acupuncturists

Acupuncturists seeking the highest compensation in their field should consider practicing in the following states, which offer the most lucrative salaries:

• Minnesota leads the nation with an impressive average annual salary of $117,620 and an hourly mean wage of $56.55. While the total employment in this state is relatively low at 150, the high pay reflects a strong demand for skilled practitioners.
• Rhode Island follows closely with an average salary of $110,840 and an hourly wage of $53.29. Employment data for this state isn't specified, but the salary figures indicate a competitive market.
• Florida offers acupuncturists an average annual salary of $107,340 and an hourly wage of $51.61, with 430 acupuncturists employed, suggesting both a sizable market and competitive pay.

Other states with noteworthy salaries include:

• Oregon and New Jersey, with average annual earnings of $99,290 and $98,230, respectively. Oregon employs 570 acupuncturists, while New Jersey employs 680, both indicating robust opportunities for employment.
• Missouri and Kansas also provide attractive salaries, at $96,700 and $95,950, respectively, although specific employment figures are not available.

These states not only offer higher-than-average salaries but also present opportunities for acupuncturists to thrive in their careers, balancing both financial rewards and professional growth.

## Comparing Salaries: Chiropractors vs. AcupuncturistsWhen looking at the annual salaries and employment numbers for chiropractors and acupuncturists, chiropractors tend to have a higher average income. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), chiropractors earn an average annual salary of $89,760, which breaks down to about $43.15 per hour. In comparison, acupuncturists earn an average of $84,260 a year, or $40.51 hourly. This means chiropractors typically earn about $5,500 more each year than acupuncturists.

In terms of employment, there are significantly more chiropractors than acupuncturists in the workforce. The BLS data shows there are approximately 41,480 chiropractors employed, which is more than four times the number of acupuncturists, who total around 9,370. This difference in employment numbers could suggest that chiropractic care is more widely utilized or has a broader presence in the health care industry compared to acupuncture.

Bottom Line

Choosing a career in acupuncture offers a promising path within the health care field, where practitioners can expect to earn an average annual salary of $84,260. This profession continues to gain traction as a complementary practice, with over 9,300 acupuncturists working in the United States. While the average salary is slightly lower compared to chiropractors, who earn around $89,760 annually, acupuncture remains a viable and rewarding career choice.

For those interested in maximizing their earning potential, certain states, such as Minnesota, Rhode Island, and Florida, offer significantly higher-than-average salaries, reflecting strong demand for skilled acupuncturists. As you consider pursuing this career, keep in mind the following insights:

• Job Opportunities: Acupuncture is recognized for its role in holistic health care, often working alongside other health care professionals.
• Regional Salaries: States like Minnesota and Rhode Island offer lucrative opportunities, with salaries exceeding $110,000 annually.
• Career Growth: Despite a smaller workforce compared to chiropractors, acupuncture offers a unique niche within health care, with room for professional development and financial growth.

Overall, becoming an acupuncturist can lead to a fulfilling career, especially if you are open to relocating to states with higher compensation and demand.