Creative & Education Alaska (AK) Rank #4 of 50

Animator Salary in Alaska

The median animator salary in Alaska is $97,700 per year, which is 24.0% above the national median of $78,790.

Median Salary
$97,700
vs National
+$18,910
State Rank
#4 of 50
Cost of Living
124%

Animator Salary Overview in Alaska (2026)

Alaska ranks #4 out of 50 states for animator compensation. This places Alaska in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for animators seeking high pay. At $97,700 per year, animators in Alaska earn $18,910 more than the national median of $78,790.

It's worth noting that Alaska's cost of living is 124% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $97,700 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $78,790.

The salary spread in Alaska is significant: animators at the 10th percentile earn $57,040, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $168,640 — a $111,600 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Alaska for this role is Juneau, where the median reaches $106,367.

Nationally, animator employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for animators across the country.

Animator Salary in Alaska by Experience

In Alaska, an entry-level animator earns around $59,520, while experienced professionals earn up to $161,200 per year. The cost of living index in Alaska is 124% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$59,520
+$11,520 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$99,200
+$19,200 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$161,200
+$31,200 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Alaska

Percentile AK Salary
10th Percentile $57,040
25th Percentile $74,400
Median (50th) $97,700
75th Percentile $130,200
90th Percentile $168,640

Animator Salary by City in Alaska

The largest employment areas for animators in Alaska include Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau, and Sitka. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Animator in Alaska

Education

Most animator positions require a bachelor's degree. Alaska has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Maya/BlenderAfter EffectsCharacter DesignStoryboarding3D ModelingTiming/Motion

Job Outlook in Alaska

Nationally, animator employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Alaska's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Animator Salary in Alaska

How much does a Animator make in Alaska? ▼
The median animator salary in Alaska is $97,700 per year, which is 24.0% above the national median of $78,790. Salaries range from $57,040 (10th percentile) to $168,640 (90th percentile).
How much does a Animator make per hour in Alaska? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $97,700, a animator in Alaska earns approximately $47 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Alaska a good state for animators? ▼
Alaska ranks #4 out of 50 states for animator pay. The cost of living index is 124% of the national average. Entry-level animators earn $59,520, while senior professionals earn $161,200.
How does Alaska compare to other states for animator salary? ▼
The highest paying state for animators is Hawaii at $133,943. Alaska's median of $97,700 ranks #4 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include California ($108,730) and Massachusetts ($106,367).
What is the entry-level animator salary in Alaska? ▼
An entry-level animator in Alaska earns approximately $59,520 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $99,200. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $161,200.
What city in Alaska pays animators the most? ▼
Juneau is the highest paying city in Alaska for animators, with a median salary of $106,367. Other cities include Anchorage and Fairbanks.