Value of massage therapy ceritification

What is the job outlook like after gaining certification? Is this something that you can live off of or more like something you'll have to pair with another job?

I'm really interested in massage therapy, but I don't want to pay $5,000-$8,000 for this and end up without a job or with a job that doesn't pay too much.

Attempting to establish a clientele of professionals who can afford $65 and up for massage on a weekly basis without obtaining the certification or licensure would be nearly impossible. Professional folks aren't looking for an unskilled "fluff-and-buff" massage. They want someone with a thorough understanding of anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, contraindications, assessment & evaluation, and techniques. Yes, there are those clients who only want a female's touch, however unskilled she is, but you can't make a real living catering to that type of clientele. Do you want to struggle to make $20K a year, or do you want the $80K that professional, licensed massage can bring you?
I can sympathise with you about the cost of 750 or more hours of school, plus about $250 for the one-time licensure exam fee,$50 a year for license renewal,$330 a year for malpractice insurance, the cost of space rental to establish yourself before going out on your own, the cost of a table, linens, oils & creams, etc. I would definitely recommend pairing with a spa or chiropractor for your first massage position. As your clientele builds, you can decide when it's time to be your own boss.

I'm not going to do massage without a license. Getting into this line of work, especially independently, is not something I'd do without being trained properly.

I was worried because I read something that said the yearly income for a massage therapist is about $10,000. That was one source, but it wouldn't be a good idea to get into this if I can truly expect to pay $5,000 for a 6-month class and end up only making $10,000 a year. Not trying to sound like I'm only about the money, I really am interested in massage, but money is very important. I'm not looking for a hobby. I'd plan to take business classes sometime after becoming certified to pair with my certification.

I expect that if I work hard and do my best to master what is taught that I will get to practice it successfully when I'm done.

Thanks for you thoughtful answer.