Animator Salary in Hawaii
The median animator salary in Hawaii is $133,943 per year, which is 70.0% above the national median of $78,790.
Animator Salary Overview in Hawaii (2026)
Hawaii ranks #1 out of 50 states for animator compensation. This places Hawaii in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for animators seeking high pay. At $133,943 per year, animators in Hawaii earn $55,153 more than the national median of $78,790.
It's worth noting that Hawaii's cost of living is 170% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $133,943 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $78,790.
The salary spread in Hawaii is significant: animators at the 10th percentile earn $78,200, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $231,200 — a $153,000 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Hawaii for this role is Honolulu, where the median reaches $137,883.
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 Hawaii by Experience
In Hawaii, an entry-level animator earns around $81,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $221,000 per year. The cost of living index in Hawaii is 170% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Hawaii
| Percentile | HI Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $78,200 |
| 25th Percentile | $102,000 |
| Median (50th) | $133,943 |
| 75th Percentile | $178,500 |
| 90th Percentile | $231,200 |
Animator Salary by City in Hawaii
The largest employment areas for animators in Hawaii include Honolulu, Pearl City, Hilo, and Kailua. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Animator in Hawaii
Education
Most animator positions require a bachelor's degree. Hawaii has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Hawaii
Nationally, animator employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Hawaii's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Animators who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $87,057 over your career trajectory.
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