SOC 271014
Special Effects Artists and Animators
Create special effects or animations using film, video, computers, or other electronic tools and media for use in products, such as computer games, movies, music videos, and commercials.
National Median
$99,800
per year
National Salary Overview
Median Annual
$99,800
Entry Level (10th pct)
$57,220
Experienced (90th pct)
$174,630
Total Employed
21,280
Salary Distribution
Salary percentiles show the range from entry-level (10th) to top earners (90th)
Salary by Experience Level
| Experience Level | Estimated Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Entry Level0-2 years experience | $57,220 - $73,030 |
| Mid Career2-8 years experience | $73,030 - $135,600 |
| Senior / Expert8+ years experience | $135,600 - $174,630 |
Highest Paying Locations for Special Effects Artists and Animators
Special Effects Artists and Animators Salary by Location
Compare salaries across 50 metropolitan areas
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for a Special Effects Artists and Animators?
The national median annual salary for Special Effects Artists and Animators is $99,800, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data. This means half of workers in this occupation earn more, and half earn less.
Where do Special Effects Artists and Animatorss earn the most?
The highest-paying metro area for Special Effects Artists and Animatorss is San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA, with a median salary of $158,070.
How much can an experienced Special Effects Artists and Animators make?
Top-earning Special Effects Artists and Animatorss (90th percentile) make $174,630 or more annually. This typically reflects workers with significant experience, specialized skills, or positions in high-paying regions.