Animation is a Real Career
We know that personal stories are great, but maybe you’re more of a numbers fan. If you prefer using data to help make your decisions, here’s some additional information about the animation job market for you.
Animation Job Satisfaction
The majority of animators you’ll meet are happy, creative people who love their job. Although they sometimes work long hours, they love the challenge, collaboration, and continual learning opportunities that animation gives them. Animation Mentor surveyed professional and student animators, many of whom described their work as a place they get to be creative, solve problems, and work with like-minded people.
One such respondent affirmed, “Doing what I love every day is the most rewarding thing I can think of. That includes animating, drawing, and creating fun and enjoyable entertainment.”
Another said, “3D is just right for me. My strength is in art skills and innovative solutions. I get to use both my creative and technical skills. I love to work when the people around me are creative, talented, and organized team players.”
Animation Career Salaries
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) current Occupational Outlook Handbook, there were about 73,700 animators and multimedia artists in 2016, with employment expected to reach 81,400 through 2026.
The BLS states that the median annual salary for both groups was $75,270 (USD) in 2019. Glassdoor concurs with that figure, but notes that the average salary for senior animators is $94,000 (USD) and that major studios pay more. One of the highest paying studios, DreamWorks Animation, had pay rates for animators from $110,000 – $160,000 (USD) annually.
