- Salary statistics
- Illustrator, other
Illustrator, other
41 395 - 39 779 kr / month
Kultur, media, design
Salary progression Illustrator, other
What does an illustrator do – tasks and work environment
An illustrator works with creating visual images and graphic elements used in books, magazines, advertising, digital media, and educational materials. The tasks can vary greatly – from developing concept sketches and detailed drawings to producing digital illustrations for the web or animations. The work is often commissioned by publishers, advertising agencies, companies, or public organizations. The work environment can be both freelance and employed, with many illustrators working from home or in shared studios. Digital tools such as drawing tablets and advanced design software are now an integral part of daily work life.
Salary development over time
The salary for an illustrator has gradually increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 36,200 SEK per month, which rose to 38 400 SEK in 2023. In 2024, a new level was reached with an average monthly salary of 39 779 SEK. This represents a total increase of about 10% over the period, which is higher than the general salary increase for many other creative professions. This positive trend can partly be explained by increased demand for visual content on digital platforms and marketing, as well as a growing need for specialized skills in digital illustration. Industry developments have also led employers to offer more competitive salaries to attract and retain talented illustrators.
Illustrator, other salary – complete overview
- Average salary: 39 779 SEK/month
- Lowest/Highest salary: Data not available
- Hourly wage: 239 SEK/hour
- Gender differences: Data not available
- Regional differences: Data not available
Education and qualifications
To work as an illustrator, a post-secondary education in art, design, or illustration is usually required, but many pathways into the profession are possible. Combining formal education, technical skills, and a well-developed portfolio is often crucial for establishing oneself. Internships and short courses can be valuable for building networks and gaining industry experience.
- Art or design university: 2–5 years
- Short vocational training or courses: 6–24 months
- Internships or traineeships: Recommended for industry experience
- Prerequisites: High school diploma with an aesthetic focus is often advantageous
- Portfolio requirements: A strong portfolio is central when applying for jobs or education
Many illustrators combine multiple artistic expressions, such as animation, graphic design, and traditional drawing, which broadens opportunities for assignments and collaborations across different industries.
Common benefits and compensations
In addition to the base salary, illustrators often receive compensation for overtime, project bonuses, and sometimes royalties or licensing income for reuse of images. Freelancers can also negotiate fees and supplements for quick deliveries or exclusive rights. Some employers offer wellness allowances, equipment reimbursements, or remote work options.
Competition and challenges
Competition for assignments and permanent positions as an illustrator is often intense, especially in larger cities where many creative professionals operate. Digitalization has made it easier to reach a global market but has also increased competition from abroad. Employers’ requirements for technical competence and adaptability are high, and it is important to continuously develop portfolios and stay updated on the latest tools. Uncertainty about workload and income is a challenge for many freelancers, even as demand for unique and niche illustrations increases.
Tips for aspiring illustrators
To succeed as an illustrator, it’s beneficial to be creative and eager to develop your expression. Building a broad and professional portfolio increases chances of getting assignments and demonstrates versatility to employers. Accuracy and the ability to listen to clients’ wishes are important qualities, as is patience in improving technical skills and finding your own style. Networking and self-promotion, both digitally and at industry events, open up more opportunities for collaboration and work. Flexibility and adaptability are crucial in a rapidly changing industry, and being open to new techniques or fields of work is an advantage. Last but not least, resilience and willingness to accept feedback are key to ongoing development in the profession.
Key facts about Illustrator, other
- Education level: Post-secondary education in art or design is common
- Work environment: Freelance, remote, or employed at agency/publisher
- Average salary: 39 779 SEK/month
- Job market: 620 available jobs in the profession
- Future outlook: No forecast due to limited data
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years in the profession, many illustrators have the opportunity to take on more advanced and well-paid projects, work as art directors, or specialize in areas such as animation, concept design, or digital illustration. Some choose to start their own business and build a client base, while others seek employment at larger agencies or publishers. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, there is no specific forecast for the illustrator profession due to limited data, but within the visual artists category, there were 620 available jobs at the latest measurement. Industry development depends on demand for visual services, and digitization and new media are expected to continue creating opportunities for skilled illustrators.
Frequently asked questions about Illustrator, other
- What does an Illustrator, other earn?
- The average salary is 39 779 SEK per month, with an hourly wage of 239 SEK. - What education is required to become an illustrator?
- Often, post-secondary education in art, design, or illustration is required, along with a strong portfolio. - What is the job market like for illustrators?
- There are approximately 620 available jobs within the profession, but competition is fierce. - What work environments are most common for illustrators?
- Many work freelance or remotely, but employment at agencies and publishing houses also occurs. - What benefits can illustrators receive?
- Common benefits include project bonuses, royalty income, wellness allowances, and sometimes equipment reimbursement. - Are there regional salary differences?
- Specific information about regional salary differences is not available for this profession. - What are the future prospects?
- There is no exact forecast, but digitization and new media continue to create demand for illustrators.
Salary distributed by age and sector
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 Illustrator, other has the SSYK code 2651, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.
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