Special Effects Artists and Animators Salary in California
Special Effects Artists and Animators in California earn a median of $130,540 a year, +28% compared with the U.S. median.
Updated October 2026 · Data: BLS OEWS May 2025 · How we match careers
- Median pay
- $130,540
- vs. U.S. median
- +28% ($102,030)
- Rank among states
- 2 of 31
- Jobs in the state
- 7,410
Pay range in California
The lowest-paid 10% earn under $71,710; the top 10% earn over $206,160. Nationally the range is $58,600 to $177,110.
States ranked near California
Similar jobs in California
- Graphic Designers$75,130 median in California
- Film and Video Editors$88,490 median in California
- Art Directors$137,780 median in California
- Producers and Directors$129,790 median in California
- Video Game Designers$136,110 median in California (broader BLS group)
- Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators$58,240 median in California
Special Effects Artists and Animators pay in California
How much do special effects artists and animators make in California?
The median is $130,540 a year. The lowest-paid 10% earn under $71,710 and the top 10% earn over $206,160. BLS OEWS May 2025.
Is California a good state for special effects artists and animators?
On pay alone it ranks 2 of 31 (+28% vs. the national median of $102,030). Living costs are not included.