What U.S. Market Research Analysis Says About the Future of Health Coaching

Wondering what the outlook is like for the health coaching industry? We break it down here!

“The health coaching industry has been invigorated. Employment opportunities for health coaches are growing exponentially as the provisions of healthcare reform are implemented.” – the National Institutes of Health. 

According to a 2021 report: “The U.S. Health Coaching Market”, by Marketdata LLC, the health coaching market was worth an estimated $7.1 billion in 2020. People are turning their attention to the gaps in our healthcare system, and recognizing the important role of the health coach in bridging those gaps! Now more than ever, individuals are taking charge of their health, and partnering with health coaches to achieve healthy, lasting lifestyle and behavior change. 

How many health coaches are there?

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 127,100 health educators and community health workers (health coaches) employed nationwide in 2019, compared to 99,400 in 2012. By 2029, this employment figure is projected to increase by 17,000 to 144,100, which implies 13% growth over the 10-year period. 

Looking at the growth of this profession, health educators held 57,900 jobs in May 2006, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The number of health educators (coaches) has grown from 57,900 to 127,100 in 11 years (or 9.2% per year on average). Their salary has grown at an average annual rate of 1.04% from 2006 to 2019. These statistics indicate that these health occupations are growing faster than the average growth for all other occupations.

How much money do health coaches make?

The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that in May 2012 health educators received a median annual wage of $48,790. Newer data show that in 2019 the median was $55,220.

The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that community health workers earned a median annual wage of $34,620 in 2012. As of 2019, this figure was $40,360. State, local, and private hospitals are credited with paying health educators higher salaries than any other industry. 

According to Glass Door, the average annual earnings for a health coach are $43,387. Based on our discussions with hundreds of coaches in many settings, wellness coaches typically earn from $25 to $100 per coaching hour, or $50,000 to $100,000 a year, depending on the setting.

Learn More About Becoming a Functional Health Coach
Download Your Free Prospective Student Guide

Where are health coaches working?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, health coaches have worked primarily in general medical and surgical hospitals, individual and family services, and local and State governments. In addition, some coaches have worked in outpatient care centers.

Many health coaches do one-on-one health coaching, but also run group coaching programs, corporate wellness programs, or online programs. They might offer retreats or intensives, or even consult.

Many health coaches are also selling eBooks or online programs. Health coaches, including FMCA alumni, have written cookbooks, diet and lifestyle books, books about their own health journey, and more. With so many different options available, it’s easier than ever to get your story out there, and earn money for doing what you love.

Interested in becoming a health coach through our award-winning online Health Coach Certification Program? Download our free Info Packet!

Published: September 2, 2021