Special Effects Artists and Animators vs. Public Relations Specialists: Who Earns More?
Special Effects Artists and Animators out-earn Public Relations Specialists by $27K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Special Effects Artists and Animators land at $102,030 and Public Relations Specialists at $74,750. The education gap is real: special effects artists and animator programs typically require bachelor's degree, while public relations specialist programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Special Effects Artists and Animators is Washington ($133,480); for Public Relations Specialists it's District of Columbia ($102,740).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Special Effects Artists and Animators median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Special Effects Artists and Animators or Public Relations Specialists?
Special Effects Artists and Animators earn more nationally. The median is $102,030 for Special Effects Artists and Animators versus $74,750 for Public Relations Specialists, a difference of $27K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Special Effects Artists and Animators or Public Relations Specialists?
Public Relations Specialists has the better 10-year outlook at 4.8% projected growth, compared to 1.6% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Special Effects Artists and Animators or Public Relations Specialists?
Special Effects Artists and Animators typically requires bachelor's degree. Public Relations Specialists requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Special Effects Artists and Animators get paid the most?
Washington is the top-paying state for Special Effects Artists and Animators at $133,480/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Special Effects Artists and Animators vs. Public Relations Specialists pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Washington, Special Effects Artists and Animators earn $133,480 vs. $87,470 for Public Relations Specialists. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.