Creative & Education Oregon (OR) Rank #10 of 50

Animator Salary in Oregon

The median animator salary in Oregon is $86,669 per year, which is 10.0% above the national median of $78,790.

Median Salary
$86,669
vs National
+$7,879
State Rank
#10 of 50
Cost of Living
110%

Animator Salary Overview in Oregon (2026)

Oregon ranks #10 out of 50 states for animator compensation. This places Oregon in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for animators seeking high pay. At $86,669 per year, animators in Oregon earn $7,879 more than the national median of $78,790.

It's worth noting that Oregon's cost of living is 110% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $86,669 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $78,790.

The salary spread in Oregon is significant: animators at the 10th percentile earn $50,600, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $149,600 — a $99,000 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Oregon for this role is Portland, where the median reaches $92,972.

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 Oregon by Experience

In Oregon, an entry-level animator earns around $52,800, while experienced professionals earn up to $143,000 per year. The cost of living index in Oregon is 110% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$52,800
+$4,800 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$88,000
+$8,000 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$143,000
+$13,000 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Oregon

Percentile OR Salary
10th Percentile $50,600
25th Percentile $66,000
Median (50th) $86,669
75th Percentile $115,500
90th Percentile $149,600

Animator Salary by City in Oregon

The largest employment areas for animators in Oregon include Portland, Salem, Eugene, and Gresham. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Animator in Oregon

Education

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

Key Skills

Maya/BlenderAfter EffectsCharacter DesignStoryboarding3D ModelingTiming/Motion

Job Outlook in Oregon

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

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Frequently Asked Questions: Animator Salary in Oregon

How much does a Animator make in Oregon? ▼
The median animator salary in Oregon is $86,669 per year, which is 10.0% above the national median of $78,790. Salaries range from $50,600 (10th percentile) to $149,600 (90th percentile).
How much does a Animator make per hour in Oregon? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $86,669, a animator in Oregon earns approximately $42 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Oregon a good state for animators? ▼
Oregon ranks #10 out of 50 states for animator pay. The cost of living index is 110% of the national average. Entry-level animators earn $52,800, while senior professionals earn $143,000.
How does Oregon compare to other states for animator salary? ▼
The highest paying state for animators is Hawaii at $133,943. Oregon's median of $86,669 ranks #10 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Connecticut ($88,245) and Maryland ($86,669).
What is the entry-level animator salary in Oregon? ▼
An entry-level animator in Oregon earns approximately $52,800 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $88,000. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $143,000.
What city in Oregon pays animators the most? ▼
Portland is the highest paying city in Oregon for animators, with a median salary of $92,972. Other cities include Salem and Eugene.