Creative & Education Maine (ME) Rank #18 of 50

Animator Salary in Maine

The median animator salary in Maine is $77,214 per year, which is 2% below the national median of $78,790.

Median Salary
$77,214
vs National
$-1,576
State Rank
#18 of 50
Cost of Living
98%

Animator Salary Overview in Maine (2026)

Maine ranks #18 out of 50 states for animator compensation. Maine falls in the middle of the pack for animator pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $77,214 per year, animators in Maine earn $1,576 less than the national median of $78,790.

Maine's cost of living is near the national average at 98%, meaning animator salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.

The salary spread in Maine is significant: animators at the 10th percentile earn $45,080, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $133,280 — a $88,200 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Maine for this role is Portland, where the median reaches $85,093.

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 Maine by Experience

In Maine, an entry-level animator earns around $47,040, while experienced professionals earn up to $127,400 per year. The cost of living index in Maine is 98% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$47,040
$-960 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$78,400
$-1,600 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$127,400
$-2,600 vs national

Build Wealth on Your Income

With a $77,214 income, financial advisors recommend investing 15–20% annually. Start building a diversified portfolio with as little as $10.

See Investment Options →

Salary Percentiles in Maine

Percentile ME Salary
10th Percentile $45,080
25th Percentile $58,800
Median (50th) $77,214
75th Percentile $102,900
90th Percentile $133,280

Animator Salary by City in Maine

The largest employment areas for animators in Maine include Portland, Lewiston, Bangor, and South Portland. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Animator in Maine

Education

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

Key Skills

Maya/BlenderAfter EffectsCharacter DesignStoryboarding3D ModelingTiming/Motion

Job Outlook in Maine

Nationally, animator employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Maine'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 $50,186 over your career trajectory.

Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →

Open to Animator Roles in Maine?

Get matched with recruiters hiring animators in Maine at competitive salaries.

Or browse positions directly:

Frequently Asked Questions: Animator Salary in Maine

How much does a Animator make in Maine? ▼
The median animator salary in Maine is $77,214 per year, which is 2% below the national median of $78,790. Salaries range from $45,080 (10th percentile) to $133,280 (90th percentile).
How much does a Animator make per hour in Maine? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $77,214, a animator in Maine earns approximately $37 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Maine a good state for animators? ▼
Maine ranks #18 out of 50 states for animator pay. The cost of living index is 98% of the national average. Entry-level animators earn $47,040, while senior professionals earn $127,400.
How does Maine compare to other states for animator salary? ▼
The highest paying state for animators is Hawaii at $133,943. Maine's median of $77,214 ranks #18 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Vermont ($79,578) and Florida ($77,214).
What is the entry-level animator salary in Maine? ▼
An entry-level animator in Maine earns approximately $47,040 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $78,400. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $127,400.
What city in Maine pays animators the most? ▼
Portland is the highest paying city in Maine for animators, with a median salary of $85,093. Other cities include Lewiston and Bangor.