3D graphics

47 700 kr

Designers in games and digital media

41 600 - 52 300 kr / month

Women earn 91% of what men do.

Kultur, media, design

What will be the salary after tax?

Salary progression 3D graphics

Average salary 47 700 kr
Males 49 000 kr
Females 44 500 kr

What does a 3D artist do? – Tasks and work environment

A 3D artist works with creating three-dimensional graphics and animations for games, film, advertising, visualizations, and digital media. Tasks include modeling, texturing, lighting, and rendering, using advanced computer programs to build virtual environments and objects. Collaboration with other creative roles such as game developers, directors, and designers is common. The work environment is typically office-based, with opportunities for remote work and flexible hours, especially within the gaming and media industries. The pace can be intense during deadlines or major project deliveries.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, 3D artist salaries have shown some variation but an overall positive trend. In 2022, the average salary was 46,800 SEK per month, which decreased slightly to 45 700 SEK in 2023, then increased sharply to 47 700 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of about 2% over three years, with a clear recovery in the last year. This development can partly be explained by increased demand for digital skills, especially in the gaming and media sectors, and technological advances requiring higher specialization. Despite the temporary dip in 2023, the market indicates a long-term appreciation of the profession, reflected in the salary increase in 2024.

3D artist salary – complete overview

  • Average salary: 47 700 SEK/month
  • Lowest salary: 41,600 SEK/month (men), 42,100 SEK/month (women)
  • Highest salary: 52,300 SEK/month (men), 44,900 SEK/month (women)
  • Hourly wage: 287 SEK/hour
  • Gender gap: Women earn 91% of what men do
  • Regional differences: Data not available

Education and qualifications

To work as a 3D artist, post-secondary education in 3D graphics, game development, digital design, or similar fields is usually required. The education combines technical skills with artistic abilities and often includes practical components. The industry values portfolios and experience, where self-study and online courses can supplement formal education.

  • Formal education: YH training (2–3 years) or university degree (3 years or more)
  • Certifications/courses: Specialization in 3D programs such as Maya, Blender, or 3ds Max
  • Internship/trainee: Common part of education
  • Prerequisites: Basic computer skills and interest in image and form
  • Self-study/online: Recommended to stay updated with new tools and techniques

Many 3D artists have the opportunity to work remotely or as freelancers, opening doors to international collaborations and projects worldwide. Technological developments have made it easier to work in global teams and participate in exciting productions regardless of location.

– statsskuld.se

Common benefits and compensations

Typical benefits for 3D artists include wellness allowances, flexible working hours, and opportunities for remote work. Other perks can include skills development, insurance, and extra vacation days, especially with larger employers in the gaming and media sectors.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs in 3D graphics can be quite high, especially at attractive employers and larger game or film studios. The industry develops rapidly, demanding continuous skills development and adaptation to new technologies and software. Portfolios and networks are often crucial for standing out, and work samples carry significant weight in recruitment. An additional challenge is the gender pay gap, where women on average earn 91% of men's salaries. The market is also influenced by economic conditions and project volumes, which can create periods of greater uncertainty.

Tips for aspiring 3D artists

To succeed as a 3D artist, it’s good to combine a strong visual sense with technical curiosity and a desire to constantly improve. Building a broad and updated portfolio demonstrates both creativity and technical skills, which are essential when applying for new projects. Precision and patience are important traits, especially when complex projects require many iterations and detailed work. Networking and participating in industry forums can open doors to new collaborations and provide valuable feedback. It’s also wise to follow developments in software and trends to maintain competitiveness. Good teamwork skills facilitate collaboration, and the ability to give and receive constructive criticism contributes to personal and professional growth.

Key facts about 3D artists

  • Educational level: Post-secondary education (2–3 years or more)
  • Work environment: Office-based, often with remote work options
  • Typical employment: Employed or freelance within gaming, film, and digital media
  • Demand: About 620 job openings in Sweden
  • Special skills: Experience with 3D programs such as Maya, Blender, or 3ds Max

Career paths and future prospects

After 3–5 years in the profession, a 3D artist can advance to roles such as lead artist, technical artist, art director, or project manager in larger productions. Specialization in animation, visual effects, or real-time rendering is common. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, there is no specific forecast for the profession due to limited data, but there are approximately 620 job openings for designers in gaming and digital media. The market is influenced by rapid technological development and increasing demand for digital content, indicating continued good opportunities for qualified 3D artists.

Frequently asked questions about 3D artists

  • What is the average salary of a 3D artist?
    - An average 3D artist earns 47 700 SEK per month.
  • How large is the salary difference between men and women?
    - Women earn on average 91% of what men do in the profession.
  • What is the highest salary for a 3D artist?
    - The highest salary is 52,300 SEK for men and 44,900 SEK for women.
  • What education is required to become a 3D artist?
    - Post-secondary education in 3D graphics, game development, or digital design is recommended.
  • Are there many jobs for 3D artists?
    - There are approximately 620 job openings in Sweden.
  • Which software programs are most used by 3D artists?
    - Common programs include Maya, Blender, and 3ds Max.
  • Do 3D artists often work remotely?
    - Many have the opportunity for remote work or freelance assignments.

Who has the highest salary?
The highest salary for a 3D graphics is 52300 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Private sector with a post-secondary education, 3 years or more. The highest salary for a woman in this profession is 44900 kr.
Who has the lowest salary?
The lowest salary for a 3D graphics is 41600 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Privately employed workers. The lowest salary for a woman in this profession is 42100 kr.
Salary distributed by age and sector
Age Women's salary as a percentage of men's Base salary Monthly salary
25-34 86% 45100 kr 45300 kr
35-44 93% 54100 kr 54400 kr
45-54 57800 kr 58200 kr
Snitt 91% 47500 kr 47700 kr
Salary per sector
Salary based on education
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About the data

All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.

All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.

Profession 3D graphics has the SSYK code 2173, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

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