Wages vary by area of the country. Wages also vary based on the type of project and the skill of the artist or animator. Experienced, self-employed special effects artists and animators can earn much more than those who earn salaries. However, when they are starting out, they can earn much less. Wages tend to be higher in some industries, such as advertising or film.
Full-time special effects artists and animators usually earn benefits such as sick leave, paid vacation, and health insurance.
Special effects artists and animators (SOC 27-1014)
| Location |
Pay Period | |
||
| 25% |
Median |
75% |
||
| Illinois | Hourly | $29.00 | $38.32 | $48.92 |
| Yearly | $60,324 | $79,693 | $101,764 | |
| Cook County | Hourly | $25.96 | $38.45 | $46.27 |
| Yearly | $54,001 | $79,972 | $96,253 | |
| Lake County | Hourly | $31.57 | $39.46 | $49.11 |
| Yearly | $65,668 | $82,073 | $102,141 | |
| United States | Hourly | $34.41 | $47.63 | $64.13 |
| Yearly | $71,570 | $99,060 | $133,400 | |