Healthcare HQs (HCA), music, tech relocation. Here's how Animators in Nashville get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Nashville metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $61,300 | $46,600 | $79,700 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $76,200 | $57,900 | $99,000 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $87,600 | $66,600 | $113,900 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $105,100 | $79,900 | $136,600 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $119,100 | $90,500 | $154,900 |
Highest-paying metros for Animators — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Nashville metro economy.
The average Animator salary in the Nashville metro is $87,600 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $66,600 to $113,900 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $144,600 or more.
Yes — Nashville pays +5% relative to the Tennessee state median for Animators. Major metros typically concentrate higher-paying employers and command a wage premium over rural and small-city areas in the same state.
Nashville vs. national: -5%. Nashville pays roughly in line with the national average for Animators. Whether that's a 'good' deal depends on local cost of living and your career stage.
In Nashville, the median Animator salary of $87,600 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Animators in Nashville start around $61,300, while seniors (10+ years) reach $105,100 or more.
Metro medians are useful benchmarks — but your exact number depends on your experience, education, and the specific employer. Run the free calculator for a personalized read.
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