CreativeOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead 3D Animator Salary in New York
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$150,700/yr
Typical range: $156,258 – $201,717
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
3D Animator salary by experience level in New York
3D Animator Salary Progression in New York
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 | $72,995 | $6,083 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $94,187 | $7,849 | +29% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $109,885 | $9,157 | +51% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $124,327 | $10,361 | +70% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $150,700 | $12,558 | +106% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $171,421 | $14,285 | +135% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $176,601 | $14,717 | +142% |
Current Salary
$150,700
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $72/hr
Next Level Target
$171,421
Principal · 14
+$21Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
41/100
Below Average
+12% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead 3D Animator salary in New York, NY?
Staff / Lead 3D Animators in New York, NY earn approximately $151K 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 New York, NY?
Based on $151K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $72/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior 3D Animator in New York, NY?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior 3D Animator in New York, NY earns $156K–$202K/yr.