Animator Salary in Hilo, Hawaii
The median animator salary in Hilo, HI is $119,761 per year, which is 52.0% above the national median and 10.6% below the Hawaii state average.
Animator Pay in Hilo: What to Expect (2026)
Hilo offers a median animator salary of $119,761, which is $14,182 below the Hawaii state average of $133,943. Compared to the national median of $78,790, Hilo pays above average for this role.
However, Hilo's cost of living index is 152%, significantly above the national average. After adjusting for local costs, the $119,761 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $78,790. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Hilo should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for animators in Hilo spans from $69,920 at the 10th percentile to $206,720 at the 90th percentile — a $136,800 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $72,960, while senior animators with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $197,600. Hilo is a smaller market (pop. 45,703), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Animator Salary in Hilo by Experience
In Hilo, an entry-level animator earns around $72,960, while experienced professionals earn up to $197,600 per year. The local cost of living index is 152% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Hilo, HI
| Percentile | Hilo |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $69,920 |
| 25th Percentile | $91,200 |
| Median (50th) | $119,761 |
| 75th Percentile | $159,600 |
| 90th Percentile | $206,720 |
Animator Salary in Other Hawaii Cities
How to Become a Animator in Hilo
Education
Most animator positions require a bachelor's degree. Hilo and the surrounding Hawaii area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, animator employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Hilo may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Animator Jobs in Hilo
Browse open animator positions in Hilo, HI: