What is the average salary for an animator?

Animator salaries vary according to level of experience and specific jobs, but the average annual salary ranges from $40,000 to $50,000. Entry level averages are much lower, while highly paid, seasoned animators can make well over $100,000 a year.

With the exception of freelancers, an animator's pay is typically through salary and carries the same benefits and range that comes with a salary position. In addition to the animator's level of experience and position, the location of the job also comes into play when factoring in salary rates.

Types of animation also pay differently. A video game animator makes a different salary than a film animator.