A comic book illustrator's income will vary based on numerous factors.
Comic books are a multi-billion dollar industry, lining the shelves of specialty stores nationwide and lending their likenesses to successful Hollywood films, video games and a plethora of merchandise. Illustrators, the artists who pencil the individual pages of comic books, are at the heart of it all. In an industry that is anything but typical, it's difficult to gauge the average income of a comic illustrator. Experience, reputation, employers and numerous other factors exert a huge influence on an artist's income.
Starting Income
Salary Expert reports average annual income ratings for comic book illustrators ranging from about $20,000 to $45,000. Most comic book illustrators earn a per-page rate, though in some cases, they receive royalties based on the sales of the comic. Illustrators can increase their income by penciling multiple books each month.
Top Tier Income
As with many jobs in the entertainment industry, the annual income of a comic book illustrator increases based on his experience and popularity. In 2008, top tier artists reported per-page earnings of up to $1,000. Most books feature between 20 and 24 pages of illustration, so that figure amounts to $20,000 or more per book. Star illustrators can earn up to $250,000 per year, according to comic book artist John Cassady -- a top-tier illustrator for titles such as "Captain America" and "X-Men" -- in 2008.
Additional Income
Comic book illustrators supplement their income in various ways. Illustrators who create their own characters receive royalties, provided they retain the rights to said characters. Royalties provide large and ongoing income if the character is optioned for use in other media, such as movies, video games or merchandise. On a smaller scale, comic artists earn additional money by selling original panel and cover art. At 2011 prices, these works of art generally fetch about $200 to $300 per page, though the work of famed illustrators sell for thousands of dollars. In 2008, Neal Adams' artwork for "Green Lantern" Number 84 sold for a record-setting price of $115,000.
Considerations
Some illustrators work freelance, but certain publishers may employ others. Income varies greatly depending on the size and success of the publishing company. For instance, an illustrator makes a lot less working for an independent press than a major player such as Marvel or D.C. However, illustrators at smaller presses may have more creative control over their work. Location plays a role as well; 2011 reports from Salary Expert indicate average yearly earnings of $20,515 for illustrators in Atlanta while New York City artists earn an average of $49,021 annually.
