Motion Graphics Designer vs Illustrator: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
Motion Graphics Designer
Create animated graphics and visual effects for film, TV, and digital media.
Illustrator
Create original artwork and illustrations for books, media, and brands.
Motion Graphics Designer earns more on average — the national median is $17,000/year (31%) higher than a Illustrator. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Motion Graphics Designer vs Illustrator — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Motion Graphics Designer | Illustrator | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $103,885 | $78,562 | Motion +$25,323 |
| New York, NY | $87,015 | $65,350 | Motion +$21,665 |
| Seattle, WA | $104,088 | $79,449 | Motion +$24,639 |
| Austin, TX | $81,376 | $60,796 | Motion +$20,580 |
| Chicago, IL | $77,537 | $58,603 | Motion +$18,934 |
| Boston, MA | $91,285 | $73,498 | Motion +$17,787 |
| London, UK | £57,762 | £43,732 | Motion +$14,030 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$98,134 | CA$74,599 | Motion +$23,535 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Motion Graphics Designer or Illustrator earn more?+
A Motion Graphics Designer earns more on average. The national median salary for a Motion Graphics Designer is $72,000/year, compared to $55,000/year for a Illustrator — a difference of $17,000 (31%).
Which has better career growth — Motion Graphics Designer or Illustrator?+
Motion Graphics Designer roles are growing at 15% YoY while Illustrator demand is growing at 5% YoY. Motion Graphics Designer has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Motion Graphics Designer to Illustrator?+
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 — Motion Graphics Designer or Illustrator?+
Motion Graphics Designer has a lower AI automation risk (45% vs 48%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.