A comprehensive new study of the illustration industry reveals troubling trends for creative professionals, with mental health struggles increasing while income growth remains stagnant. The annual State of Illustration 2025 report, published by Hireillo (Hire an Illustrator), surveyed 1,500 illustrators worldwide to examine current industry conditions and challenges facing artists trying to make a living in the field.
The 44-page report, which features illustrations by children's book illustrator Beach, is divided into four main sections covering demographics, work patterns, financial situations, and lifestyle factors. The study addresses various aspects of professional illustration, including income trends, contract negotiations, educational backgrounds, mental health issues, and workplace discrimination experiences.
Several significant demographic and workplace shifts emerged from the survey data. The number of female illustrators in the industry continues to grow, while more artists are working from home than ever before. However, fewer illustrators report having dedicated home studio spaces despite the increase in remote work. Additionally, a growing number of illustrators are taking on jobs outside their field to supplement their artistic income, indicating financial pressures within the industry.
Perhaps most concerning, the majority of survey respondents reported experiencing anxiety or confidence issues that have negatively impacted their careers. Mental health challenges appear to be affecting illustrators at unprecedented levels, with 2024 showing higher rates of reported anxiety and mental health issues than during the COVID-19 pandemic period.
The financial picture presents a mixed outlook for illustration professionals. Median earnings are increasing for full-time illustrators in the United States and United Kingdom, suggesting some positive momentum in established markets. However, part-time illustrators are seeing their earnings shrink, creating a concerning divide between full-time and part-time creative professionals.
Despite the challenges, the report identifies several areas of opportunity and resilience within the illustration industry. Report author Darren Di Lieto notes that certain markets, particularly children's publishing, remain strong and continue to provide steady work for illustrators. Many artists are successfully maintaining income through private commissions and editorial assignments, while online sales of prints and products, along with convention sales, continue to generate reliable revenue streams for many professionals.
"I think it's important for artists to consider what works for their peers, then think about what might work for their own business, what changes they could make, what areas they could target," Di Lieto explained. He emphasized that while overall job satisfaction among illustrators has remained stable, with most respondents saying they enjoy their work, the concerning trends in mental health and work-life balance cannot be ignored.
Di Lieto expressed particular concern about the mental health findings, stating, "We were initially surprised to find that reported anxiety and mental health issues were higher in 2024 than they were during the pandemic, but I think that reflects just how tough it is out there financially for many folk nowadays." He attributed much of the stress to financial pressures, noting, "There's definitely been a drop in income growth, with people finding it harder to earn more, or even the same as they were previously."
The State of Illustration 2025 report represents eight years of industry trend analysis and market shift documentation, providing valuable insights for both working illustrators and those considering entering the field. The complete report is available for purchase and download through the Hireillo platform, offering detailed data and analysis for professionals seeking to understand and navigate the current illustration landscape.
