How much to tip a massage therapist in Canada (2026 Guide)
15–20% on the treatment
15–20% of the bill is the typical range.
Tipping calculator
Cultural notes
Spa and massage tipping in Canada is similar to the US: 15–20% on each treatment. Some resort and destination spas (Banff, Whistler, Mont-Tremblant) automatically add an 18% "service charge" or "gratuity" to all treatments — check the receipt before tipping more, because that line item goes to the therapist. Hand the cash directly to the therapist if you prefer, or add to the card total at reception. For Nordic/Scandinave-style spas (Scandinave Spa Mont-Tremblant, Whistler), tipping is generally not expected because there is no single dedicated therapist for the experience.
Frequently asked questions
Is gratuity included in the package price?
Some resort spas auto-add 18%; check the bill.
Do I tip on a thermal/Nordic spa (no therapist)?
Generally no — there is no dedicated service provider.
Tipping other services in Canada
- Sit-down restaurant15–20% pre-tax (national average 17.2%)
- Counter / takeaway$1–$2 or 10–15% if you choose to tip
- Café$1–$2 per drink, or 10–15% via POS prompt
- Bar$1–$2 per drink at the bar, or 15–20% on a tab
- Housekeeping$3–$5 per night, left daily
- Porter$2–$5 per bag
- Concierge$5–$20 for a meaningful favour
- Taxi10–15% of fare, $2 minimum
- Rideshare15–20% in-app, $2–$3 minimum
- Food delivery15–20% of order, $5 minimum
- Grocery delivery10–15% of order, $5 minimum
- Hairdresser15–20% on the service
- Tour guide15–20% of tour price, or $10–$20 per person full day
- Tattoo artist15–20% of the piece cost
- Valet$2–$5 on car return
- Airport baggage$2 per bag for skycap/porter
- Busker$1–$5 if you stop to listen
- Movers$20–$40 per mover half-day; $40–$60 per mover full-day
- TradespersonNo tip routinely; $20–$50 cash for emergency or after-hours
Tipping a massage therapist in nearby countries
Last verified: · Sources: ctvnews.ca