Raksha
Hiring the right 2D animator can make your project stand out. Whether it’s a marketing video, explainer animation, or full-scale cartoon series. But before you post your brief, it’s important to understand typical 2D animator hourly rates so you can set a realistic budget and attract top talent.
In this guide, we’ll break down freelance 2D animator rates by experience, project type, and complexity, and show you how to calculate total project costs.
Key Factors Influencing 2D Animator Hourly Rates:
Experience Level
Entry-level 2D animators charge around $25–$50/hour, while experienced professionals can command $100+ depending on their portfolio and niche expertise.
Project Complexity
Detailed character animations or cinematic sequences require more hours, which increases total cost.
Deadline (Rush Jobs)
If your project has a tight turnaround, expect to pay a rush fee of 20–50% more to prioritize your work.
Location
Animators based in high-cost regions (like the US, UK, or Western Europe) usually charge higher rates compared to artists in Asia or Eastern Europe.
Software Expertise
Professionals using premium software such as Toon Boom Harmony or TVPaint Animation may charge more due to advanced capabilities and license costs.
2D Animator Hourly Rates
Here’s a table outlining typical 2D animator hourly rates based on experience level and location:
Experience Level | Small Project | Medium Project | Large Project |
|---|---|---|---|
Beginner (0–2 yrs) | $25 – $50/hr | $50 – $75/hr | $75+/hr |
Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $50 – $75/hr | $75 – $125/hr | $125+/hr |
Senior (6+ yrs) | $75 – $125/hr | $125 – $175/hr | $175+/hr |
💡 Tip: Use this table as a guide, but always discuss your project scope and complexity with the 2D animator to get an accurate quote.
It’s important to note that these 2D animator hourly rates are approximate and can vary depending on the specific project requirements, deadlines, and the animator’s level of expertise.
2D Animation Cost Per Minute
While hourly rates help with budgeting, many clients prefer to estimate costs per minute of finished animation. On average, 2D animation costs range from $500 to $5,000 per minute, depending on the complexity and style.
Animation Type | Description | Cost per Minute |
|---|---|---|
Simple Motion Graphics | Basic character movements, limited backgrounds | $500 – $1,500 |
Explainer Videos | Business or product animations | $1,500 – $3,000 |
Complex Character Animation | Full scenes, dynamic movement, multiple assets | $3,000 – $5,000+ |
🎨 Example: A 60-second product animation with moderate detail typically costs around $2,000–$3,000.
On average, a single minute of high-quality 2D animation can cost anywhere from $500 to $5,000 or more, depending on the complexity and the studio or freelancer’s rates. Simple animations with limited character movements and straightforward backgrounds may fall on the lower end of the spectrum, while intricate character animations with detailed backgrounds and visual effects can easily reach the higher end.
For a detailed breakdown, read our guide to the real cost of 2D game animation.
How to Calculate the Total Cost of a 2D Animation Project
While hourly rates for freelance 2D animators provide a general idea of animator compensation, clients often seek to determine the overall cost of their animation project. To calculate the 2D animation cost, it’s essential to consider the estimated number of hours required to complete the project and multiply it by the animator’s hourly rate.
To estimate your project cost, multiply the expected hours by the animator’s hourly rate.
Example:
A 2D promo video requiring 40 hours at $50/hour = $2,000 total cost.
Always confirm deliverables, revisions, and style expectations upfront. This ensures you stay on budget and avoid unexpected costs later in production.
You can also post a detailed brief on Twine, where vetted 2D animators will send you transparent quotes tailored to your needs.
Final Thoughts on 2D Animator Hourly Rates
Understanding 2D animator hourly rates helps you plan your animation budget wisely and ensures fair pay for skilled creatives. Rates depend on the animator’s experience, project type, and region, but with the right research, you can find the perfect balance between quality and cost.
Ready to hire? Post your animation brief for free on Twine and connect with professional 2D animators who specialize in explainer videos, character animation, and motion design.
Related Reads:
- Learn how much 3D animation costs
- Read our guide to The Real Cost of 2D Game Animation
- Discover how to write the perfect 2D animator job description
