How Much Do Animators Get Paid?

How much do animators earn? This 2025 salary guide from the Animation & VFX Union BECTU gives a good picture of the current market rates in the UK.

Salary transparency is something our industry doesn't always do well, so rates cards like this are very useful, especially for junior artists negotiating a salary for a new role, trying to get a realistic idea of what they can expect to earn. 

Note that much depends where you live in the UK. The difference in the cost of living between London/the South East and the rest of the UK is significant.  If you're further away from London, your expenses are usually lower, but salaries also tend to be lower. 

So whether these are good rates really depends a lot on your location.  In addition rates are, of course, lower for junior roles, for folks looking to break into the industry for the first time. 

Location, Location
So whether these are good rates really depends a lot on your location.  In addition rates are, of course, lower for junior roles, for folks looking to break into the industry for the first time. 

Animation - The Going Rate

Are these rates good or bad? This depends on your point of view.  Animators from most of Europe, and from India or China, will probably find these rates quite competitive. 

Overseas Rates

Rates in Canada, Australia and New Zealand are more or less in line with the UK, although currency exchange can make a difference.  Rates in the USA tend to be quite a bit higher. 

Guidelines Only

Obviously these rates are just guidelines, and there will always be studios paying above or below these numbers.

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