• A new study has identified the best states for a career in game development if workers want to have the highest income after essential spending - with Georgia ranking eighth
• The study analyzed data on the annual salaries of game developers adjusted to consumer spending to reveal where is best to work in the field
• The Video Games market is expected to reach a projected market volume of $103.80bn by 2027 in the US alone
• Georgia game developers reported an annual salary of $120,797, which is 11% higher than the national average ($109,223)

New data has revealed the states ranked highest for the most potential take-home earnings from a game developer career - and it turns out workers should consider a move to Georgia this year.

The research, pulled together by CSGO Gambling site, CSGOLuck, analyzed data on the average annual salaries offered in each state, compared to the average consumer spending, to identify where Americans are best off.

The cost-of-living crisis made for a tough financial year for many US households, and whilst the economic pressures continue, many are hoping 2024 brings more prosperity than the last.

With the Video Games market in the US expected to hit a projected market volume of $103.80bn by 2027 with the number of users predicted to be 91.0m, a career in game development seems to be a safe bet.

And it turns out if workers want to rake in some of the biggest bucks in the industry, Georgia would be a good place to call home, as - when adjusted to consumer spending - a game developer's annual salary comes out at $120,797 - 11% above the national average wage ($109,223) and the eighth highest in the US.

An even more significant increase from the US average can be found in Idaho, which takes the lead with the top salary of $135,559 - a whopping 24% higher.

Following Idaho as the second-best state for a game development career is Mississippi at $131,158, which is 20% higher than the national average. New Mexico is third with $126,287 - still $15,000 higher (16% increase) than the average.

The 10 highest-paying states for a career in game development

On the other end of the scale, relocating to Colorado wouldn't be the best financial decision. Likewise, workers already based there should consider setting up roots elsewhere if they want more excess spending for savings and personal luxuries, as the annual salary is 19% below the US average at $88,384.

Closely behind is Florida, with a very slight improvement as the state's average salary - when adjusted to consumer spending - increases to $88,582. In third is Connecticut at $92,644, which is still 15% below the national average.

Whilst money isn't the first concern for all workers with many understandably prioritizing other factors when it comes to choosing where to live, if workers are flexible on where they can settle down, it is certainly worth thinking about making it a place that'll offer the least money troubles - especially due to the current economic situation.

The 10 lowest-paying states for a career in game development

Commenting on the findings, a CSGOLuck spokesperson said: “As a multi-billion dollar business that’s not going anywhere anytime soon, working in the booming industry offers a level of job security that not all industries are able to provide - which is no doubt part of the appeal for many workers.

"This, paired with the fact that the career is adaptable to suit so many lifestyles, such as remote workers or those who prefer part-time hours, means there is likely plenty of competition, particularly in the areas that boast the highest salaries.

"But the top salary on paper doesn't necessarily mean game developers will be the best off financially - essential spending needs to be taken into consideration to determine how much extra cash they will have left to splash on whatever they please.

"If workers are hoping to have a year filled with more holidays and treats, making a state such as Georgia their home should be on their 2024 bucket list."