CreativeOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead 3D Animator Salary in Austin
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$120,122/yr
Typical range: $124,552 – $160,788
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
3D Animator salary by experience level in Austin
3D Animator Salary Progression in Austin
From entry-level through staff — based on BLS OEWS percentile data
| Experience Level | Years | Percentile | Annual Salary | Monthly | vs Entry |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry | 0 yrs | 0 yrs | $58,184 | $4,849 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $75,076 | $6,256 | +29% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $87,589 | $7,299 | +51% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $99,100 | $8,258 | +70% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $120,122 | $10,010 | +106% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $136,638 | $11,387 | +135% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $140,768 | $11,731 | +142% |
Current Salary
$120,122
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $58/hr
Next Level Target
$136,638
Principal · 14
+$17Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
41/100
Below Average
+12% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead 3D Animator salary in Austin, TX?
Staff / Lead 3D Animators in Austin, TX earn approximately $120K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead 3D Animator make per hour in Austin, TX?
Based on $120K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $58/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior 3D Animator in Austin, TX?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior 3D Animator in Austin, TX earns $125K–$161K/yr.