Animator Salary in Rochester, New York
The median animator salary in Rochester, NY is $70,911 per year, which is 10% below the national median and 26.2% below the New York state average.
Animator Pay in Rochester: What to Expect (2026)
Rochester offers a median animator salary of $70,911, which is $25,213 below the New York state average of $96,124. Compared to the national median of $78,790, Rochester pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Rochester's cost of living is 90% 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 Rochester spans from $41,400 at the 10th percentile to $122,400 at the 90th percentile — a $81,000 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $43,200, while senior animators with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $117,000. With a population of 211,328, Rochester is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Animator Salary in Rochester by Experience
In Rochester, an entry-level animator earns around $43,200, while experienced professionals earn up to $117,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 90% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Rochester, NY
| Percentile | Rochester |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $41,400 |
| 25th Percentile | $54,000 |
| Median (50th) | $70,911 |
| 75th Percentile | $94,500 |
| 90th Percentile | $122,400 |
Animator Salary in Other New York Cities
How to Become a Animator in Rochester
Education
Most animator positions require a bachelor's degree. Rochester and the surrounding New York 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 Rochester may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Animator Jobs in Rochester
Browse open animator positions in Rochester, NY: