How Animators in Colorado get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical Colorado compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $75,700 | $57,500 | $98,400 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $94,100 | $71,500 | $122,300 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $108,200 | $82,200 | $140,600 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $129,800 | $98,600 | $168,700 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $147,100 | $111,700 | $191,200 |
Pay varies sharply within Colorado. Major metros usually outpay state-wide averages.
| Metro | Median | 25th % | 75th % | vs Colorado |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Denver | $108,900 | $82,800 | $141,600 | +1% |
Top occupations by median pay in Colorado — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
→ See full ranking of top 25 highest-paying jobs in Colorado
If you'd consider relocating, here's how regional and comparable markets pay for the same job.
The average Animator salary in Colorado is $108,200 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $82,200 and the 75th at $140,600.
Pay-wise, Colorado sits +17% above the national Animator median ($92,500). That makes it one of the stronger markets — though cost of living should always be factored in alongside raw salary.
Senior Animators (10–14 years of experience) in Colorado earn around $129,800 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $147,100 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), Colorado ranks 9th for Animator pay. The highest-paying state pays around $138,700 on average.
The median is a benchmark, not a verdict. Your exact market value depends on your experience and education — plus your specific employer's pay band. Run the free calculator for a personalized number.
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