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Special Effects Artists and Animators Salary in Illinois
Last updated: 2025 BLS data · Page refreshed:
How much do Special Effects Artists and Animators make in Illinois?
Last updated: 2025 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics
$81,180
Median Annual Salary
▲
+8.5% vs 2024
$92,680
Mean Salary
$81,180
Median Salary
$39.03
Hourly Rate
630 people work as Special Effects Artists and Animators in Illinois
Special Effects Artists and Animators salary by percentile in Illinois
BLS-reported salary distribution — from entry-level (10th percentile) to top earners (90th percentile).
Special Effects Artists and Animators in Illinois earn a median salary of $81,180 per year ($6,765/month).
This is 3.0% above the national average of $78,841.
Illinois ranks #15 out of 31 states for Special Effects Artists and Animators pay.
Approximately 630 people work in this occupation across Illinois.
Salaries increased by 8.5% compared to 2024.
About This Job: Special Effects Artists and Animators
Create special effects or animations using film, video, computers, or other electronic tools and media for use in products, such as computer games, movies, music videos, and commercials.
Top Skills
Active Listening
3.88
Reading Comprehension
3.75
Critical Thinking
3.75
Speaking
3.25
Writing
3.12
Key Knowledge Areas
Computers and Electronics
4.95
English Language
4.38
Design
4.22
Communications and Media
4.11
Customer and Personal Service
3.94
Typical Education: High School Diploma or Equivalent
(5.4% of workers)
Salary Range: Special Effects Artists and Animators in Illinois
Salaries for Special Effects Artists and Animators in Illinois range from $60,760 at the 10th percentile (entry level) to $136,710 at the 90th percentile (experienced). The middle 50% earn between $67,230 and $108,640.
How much do Special Effects Artists and Animators make in Illinois?
The median annual salary for Special Effects Artists and Animators in Illinois is $81,180 as of 2025. The average (mean) salary is $92,680.
What is the salary range for a Special Effects Artists and Animators in Illinois?
Salaries for Special Effects Artists and Animators in Illinois range from $60,760 at the 10th percentile to $136,710 at the 90th percentile. The middle 50% earn between $67,230 and $108,640.
What is the starting salary for a Special Effects Artists and Animators in Illinois?
Entry-level Special Effects Artists and Animators positions in Illinois typically start around $60,760 (10th percentile). With some experience, salaries rise to $67,230 (25th percentile).
How many people work as Special Effects Artists and Animators in Illinois?
According to 2025 BLS data, approximately 630 people are employed as Special Effects Artists and Animators in Illinois.
What is the hourly rate for a Special Effects Artists and Animators in Illinois?
Based on a standard 2,080-hour work year, the median hourly rate for a Special Effects Artists and Animators in Illinois is approximately $39.03 per hour.
Salary data is sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey, 2025 estimates. The OEWS survey covers approximately 1.1 million establishments nationwide.
Annual salaries are calculated based on a standard 2,080-hour work year. Actual compensation may vary based on experience, education, employer, and local market conditions. Figures do not include benefits, bonuses, or overtime pay.
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