Animator Salary in Des Moines, Iowa
The median animator salary in Des Moines, IA is $72,487 per year, which is 8% below the national median and 3.4% above the Iowa state average.
Animator Pay in Des Moines: What to Expect (2026)
Des Moines offers a median animator salary of $72,487, which is $2,364 above the Iowa state average of $70,123. Compared to the national median of $78,790, Des Moines pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Des Moines's cost of living is 92% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for animators in Des Moines spans from $42,320 at the 10th percentile to $125,120 at the 90th percentile — a $82,800 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $44,160, while senior animators with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $119,600. With a population of 214,133, Des Moines is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Animator Salary in Des Moines by Experience
In Des Moines, an entry-level animator earns around $44,160, while experienced professionals earn up to $119,600 per year. The local cost of living index is 92% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Des Moines, IA
| Percentile | Des Moines |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $42,320 |
| 25th Percentile | $55,200 |
| Median (50th) | $72,487 |
| 75th Percentile | $96,600 |
| 90th Percentile | $125,120 |
Animator Salary in Other Iowa Cities
How to Become a Animator in Des Moines
Education
Most animator positions require a bachelor's degree. Des Moines and the surrounding Iowa 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 Des Moines may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Animator Jobs in Des Moines
Browse open animator positions in Des Moines, IA: