Illustrator vs Game Designer: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
Illustrator
Create original artwork and illustrations for books, media, and brands.
Game Designer
Design game mechanics, levels, and systems that create engaging player experiences.
Game Designer earns more on average — the national median is $33,000/year (60%) higher than a Illustrator. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Illustrator vs Game Designer — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Illustrator | Game Designer | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $78,562 | $131,260 | Illustrator $52,698 |
| New York, NY | $65,350 | $103,602 | Illustrator $38,252 |
| Seattle, WA | $79,449 | $125,525 | Illustrator $46,076 |
| Austin, TX | $60,796 | $95,576 | Illustrator $34,780 |
| Chicago, IL | $58,603 | $96,015 | Illustrator $37,412 |
| Boston, MA | $73,498 | $112,735 | Illustrator $39,237 |
| London, UK | £43,732 | £68,296 | Illustrator $24,564 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$74,599 | CA$118,988 | Illustrator $44,389 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Illustrator or Game Designer earn more?+
A Game Designer earns more on average. The national median salary for a Illustrator is $55,000/year, compared to $88,000/year for a Game Designer — a difference of $33,000 (60%).
Which has better career growth — Illustrator or Game Designer?+
Illustrator roles are growing at 5% YoY while Game Designer demand is growing at 14% YoY. Game Designer has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Illustrator to Game Designer?+
Yes. Many professionals transition between these roles, especially since both are in the same category. Shared skills include: analytical thinking, communication, and industry knowledge.
Which is harder to automate — Illustrator or Game Designer?+
Game Designer has a lower AI automation risk (28% vs 48%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.