How Animators in Virginia get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical Virginia compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $73,100 | $55,500 | $95,000 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $90,900 | $69,000 | $118,100 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $104,500 | $79,400 | $135,800 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $125,400 | $95,200 | $162,900 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $142,100 | $107,900 | $184,600 |
Top occupations by median pay in Virginia — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
→ See full ranking of top 25 highest-paying jobs in Virginia
If you'd consider relocating, here's how regional and comparable markets pay for the same job.
The average Animator salary in Virginia is $104,500 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $79,400 and the 75th at $135,800.
Pay-wise, Virginia sits +13% 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 Virginia earn around $125,400 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $142,100 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), Virginia ranks 12th 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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