Creative & Education Massachusetts (MA) Rank #3 of 50

Animator Salary in Massachusetts

The median animator salary in Massachusetts is $106,367 per year, which is 35.0% above the national median of $78,790.

Median Salary
$106,367
vs National
+$27,577
State Rank
#3 of 50
Cost of Living
135%

Animator Salary Overview in Massachusetts (2026)

Massachusetts ranks #3 out of 50 states for animator compensation. This places Massachusetts in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for animators seeking high pay. At $106,367 per year, animators in Massachusetts earn $27,577 more than the national median of $78,790.

It's worth noting that Massachusetts's cost of living is 135% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $106,367 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $78,790.

The salary spread in Massachusetts is significant: animators at the 10th percentile earn $62,100, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $183,600 — a $121,500 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Massachusetts for this role is Cambridge, where the median reaches $126,064.

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 Massachusetts by Experience

In Massachusetts, an entry-level animator earns around $64,800, while experienced professionals earn up to $175,500 per year. The cost of living index in Massachusetts is 135% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$64,800
+$16,800 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$108,000
+$28,000 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$175,500
+$45,500 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Massachusetts

Percentile MA Salary
10th Percentile $62,100
25th Percentile $81,000
Median (50th) $106,367
75th Percentile $141,750
90th Percentile $183,600

Animator Salary by City in Massachusetts

The largest employment areas for animators in Massachusetts include Boston, Worcester, Springfield, and Cambridge. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Animator in Massachusetts

Education

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

Key Skills

Maya/BlenderAfter EffectsCharacter DesignStoryboarding3D ModelingTiming/Motion

Job Outlook in Massachusetts

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

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Frequently Asked Questions: Animator Salary in Massachusetts

How much does a Animator make in Massachusetts? ▼
The median animator salary in Massachusetts is $106,367 per year, which is 35.0% above the national median of $78,790. Salaries range from $62,100 (10th percentile) to $183,600 (90th percentile).
How much does a Animator make per hour in Massachusetts? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $106,367, a animator in Massachusetts earns approximately $51 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Massachusetts a good state for animators? ▼
Massachusetts ranks #3 out of 50 states for animator pay. The cost of living index is 135% of the national average. Entry-level animators earn $64,800, while senior professionals earn $175,500.
How does Massachusetts compare to other states for animator salary? ▼
The highest paying state for animators is Hawaii at $133,943. Massachusetts's median of $106,367 ranks #3 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Hawaii ($133,943) and California ($108,730).
What is the entry-level animator salary in Massachusetts? ▼
An entry-level animator in Massachusetts earns approximately $64,800 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $108,000. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $175,500.
What city in Massachusetts pays animators the most? ▼
Cambridge is the highest paying city in Massachusetts for animators, with a median salary of $126,064. Other cities include Boston and Worcester.