Acupuncturists Salary 2025: $76,040 Median, Top States Pay Over $140K
Acupuncturists earn a median salary of $76,040, according to 2024 BLS data. The mean annual wage is $87,020, roughly $37 per hour. Pay ranges from $38,830 at the 10th percentile to $161,470 at the 90th, making it a career with strong upside for experienced practitioners. The field employs 7,830 professionals nationally.
How much Acupuncturists earn
The BLS reports that the middle half of acupuncturists earn between $38,830 and $161,470. The top 10% clear $161,470, while the bottom 10% earn under $38,830.
Wages vary significantly by setting. Self-employed practitioners often have higher earning potential but must cover their own business costs. Those in outpatient care centers or offices of other health practitioners typically earn above the median.
Pay by state
Tennessee tops the list at $141,430, followed by New Jersey ($125,260), Indiana ($120,490), Maryland ($101,650), and Massachusetts ($93,360).
At the lower end, Hawaii ($64,570), Utah ($58,620), and Colorado ($56,950) offer below-average wages. Cost of living can offset some of these differences, but the geographic spread is wide.
How to become an Acupuncturist
Becoming a licensed acupuncturist typically requires a master’s degree in acupuncture or Oriental medicine from a program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (ACAOM). Programs usually take 3–4 years and include clinical training.
After graduation, you must pass the national board exam administered by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) and obtain a state license. Most states require continuing education to maintain licensure.
Many states also require passing a clean needle technique exam. Check your state’s specific regulations, as some have additional requirements like a jurisprudence exam.
- Complete a master’s degree from an ACAOM-accredited program (3-4 years full-time).
- Pass the NCCAOM board exam to earn national certification.
- Apply for a state license; requirements vary but usually include passing a clean needle test.
- Complete continuing education hours each renewal period (typically every 2 years).
Job outlook
Employment of acupuncturists is projected to grow 6.8% from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 900 openings each year over the decade, mostly due to replacement needs and growing demand for integrative medicine.
The increasing acceptance of acupuncture for pain management and stress relief, combined with an aging population seeking non-pharmacological treatments, should sustain growth. However, competition for jobs may be strong in large cities.
Frequently asked questions
Do acupuncturists make good money?
The median salary is $76,040, with top earners making over $161,000. In high-paying states like Tennessee ($141,430) or New Jersey ($125,260), the income is very competitive. However, starting salaries can be under $40,000.
How long does it take to become an acupuncturist?
Most programs take 3–4 years of full-time study to earn a master’s degree. After that, you must pass the NCCAOM exam and get a state license, which can add several months. In total, expect 4–5 years post-bachelor’s.
Is the job market for acupuncturists growing?
Yes. The BLS projects 6.8% growth from 2024 to 2034, faster than average. About 900 job openings per year are expected, driven by increased demand for non-drug pain treatments and integrative healthcare.
Which state pays acupuncturists the most?
Tennessee has the highest average salary at $141,430. New Jersey ($125,260) and Indiana ($120,490) are second and third. The lowest-paying states are Colorado ($56,950), Utah ($58,620), and Hawaii ($64,570).
Can acupuncturists make six figures?
Yes. The top 10% of earners make over $161,470. Practitioners in high-paying states, those with a strong client base, or those in private practice commonly reach six figures.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Acupuncturists data.