Roofer Salary Guide in the United States 2025
If you’re thinking about starting a career in roofing or are already working in the field, you’ve probably asked yourself, “How much do roofers make?” or “What’s the average roofer salary in the U.S.?”
The answer varies, but the good news is that roofing can be a financially rewarding trade. With steady demand, opportunities for growth, and strong earning potential—especially for skilled professionals or business owners—roofing offers a bright future.
With extreme weather events becoming more frequent and aging infrastructure requiring constant upkeep, the demand for roofing services is only growing. This means a steady salary and job security for those in the trade.
In this guide, we’ll break down average roofing salaries, the factors that influence pay, and real-world examples from across the country.
Let’s dive into it!
Roofer Salary Guide Contents
What Is The Yearly Roofer Salary?
On average, roofers in the U.S. earn between $35,000 and $70,000 per year, with hourly wages ranging from $17 to $34, depending on location, experience, and specialization.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the median annual salary for roofers in 2024 was $48,890, with the top 10% earning over $70,000 per year.
Entry-Level Roofer Salary
Typically earn between $30,000 and $40,000 annually. These roles often involve learning basic skills, assisting experienced roofers, and performing less complex tasks.
Experienced Roofer Salary
With a few years of experience, salaries can climb to $50,000 to $65,000 per year, especially for those skilled in specialized techniques or working in high-demand areas.
Roofing Business Owners Salary
Roofers who start their own companies often earn $70,000 to $150,000+ annually, depending on the size of their business and the projects they take on.
Mike, an experienced roofer in California, earns $72,000 annually, focusing on high-end residential projects. By specializing in energy-efficient and premium roofing options, he attracts high-paying clients.
Factors That Impact Roofers Salaries
1. Location
Where you work plays a major role in determining how much you can earn as a roofer. States with higher living costs, like California, New York, and Massachusetts, often offer higher salaries, typically ranging from $60,000 to $80,000 annually.
On the other hand, states with a lower cost of living, such as Alabama or Kansas, may see roofing salaries closer to $35,000 to $50,000 per year.
Here’s a look at average roofing salaries in a few key states:
California
- $65,000-$80,000
High demand for roof replacements and energy-efficient roofing regulations drive up salaries.
Texas
- $50,000–$65,000
- A booming construction industry ensures steady demand for roofers.
Florida
- $45,000–$60,000
Frequent hurricanes and storm damage create high demand for roof repairs.
New York
- $60,000–$75,000
Urban density and a higher cost of living lead to competitive salaries.
Kentucky
- $40,000–$50,000
- A lower cost of living means salaries are more modest but steady.
2. Experience and Skill Level
Experience is key to higher earnings in roofing. Entry-level roofers typically earn $30,000–$40,000, but with time, advanced skills, and a solid reputation, income grows significantly.
Specializing in areas like metal roofing or solar panel installations can boost pay, with certified specialists often earning 10–20% more due to the technical expertise required.
Certifications such as OSHA safety training or NRCA ProCertification also enhance earning potential by opening doors to higher-paying projects and leadership roles.
Sarah, a certified metal roofer in Texas, transitioned from traditional roofing to specialize in metal installations. Her salary jumped from $52,000 to $75,000 within three years, thanks to the technical expertise required.
3. Type of Work
The type of roofing work you specialize in has a significant impact on your income. Different areas of roofing require varying levels of expertise, materials, and project scope, all of which influence pay rates.
Residential Roofing
This typically involves repairing or installing roofs on houses and smaller buildings. While residential roofing tends to pay less than commercial work, it can still be highly lucrative if you specialize.
Take on custom projects or work with luxury materials like slate, cedar shake, or clay tiles. High-end residential jobs often come with premium pricing, allowing skilled roofers to earn more.
Commercial Roofing
Working on commercial buildings like warehouses, office complexes, or retail spaces often comes with larger-scale projects and higher pay.
Commercial roofing requires expertise in materials like TPO, EPDM, or metal, which are used for flat or low-slope roofs. Salaries for commercial roofers generally range from $50,000 to $80,000+, with project managers and supervisors earning even more.
Specializations and Niche Expertise
Specializing in niche roofing services can significantly boost your earning potential.
As demand for sustainable and innovative solutions grows, roofers with expertise in areas like green roofing, solar panel installations, and metal roofing are commanding premium rates and securing higher-paying projects.
Green Roofing
Eco-friendly roofs with vegetation systems are increasingly popular among environmentally conscious clients.
Green roofing requires advanced skills in waterproofing, structural integrity, and drainage design, allowing professionals to charge 10–15% higher rates than traditional roofing. These projects not only pay well but also position roofers as leaders in sustainability.
Emma, a green roofer in New York, increased her rates by 20% after completing training in waterproofing and drainage systems for green roofs.
Solar Panel Integration
The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) reported that solar installations in the U.S. grew by 40% year-over-year in 2023, with more homeowners integrating solar panels into their roofing systems.
With renewable energy on the rise, roofers who specialize in solar panel installations are seeing substantial income growth. Solar roofing combines electrical knowledge with roofing expertise, making it one of the most profitable niches in the industry.
James, an Arizona roofer, added solar installation services and grew his income from $55,000 to $95,000 annually within two years.
Metal Roofing
Known for its durability and low maintenance, metal roofing requires specific installation techniques, enabling specialists to charge premium prices. Roofers proficient in working with materials like steel, aluminum, and copper can earn significantly more than those focused on traditional shingles.
Roofers proficient in installing steel or copper roofs earn $70,000+, especially in areas like California, where durability is key.
Energy-Efficient Roofing Systems
Energy-efficient roofing solutions, such as cool roofs and advanced insulation systems, are gaining traction as homeowners and businesses look to reduce energy costs. These services often require additional training and certifications, but they open the door to high-value projects.
How to Maximize Your Roofer Salary
If you’re looking to take your roofing career to the next level, here are a few proven strategies to boost your income and grow your professional reputation:
1. Gain Certifications
Certifications not only improve your skills but also make you more valuable to clients and employers. Programs like OSHA safety training ensure you’re well-versed in workplace safety, which is essential for many job sites.
Additionally, manufacturer-specific certifications, such as becoming a GAF Certified Contractor or earning credentials from CertainTeed or Owens Corning, demonstrate expertise with specific products. These certifications can position you for higher-paying jobs and give clients confidence in your work.
2. Start Your Own Business
Owning a roofing company offers the potential for much higher earnings than working as an employee. While the upfront effort to establish your business can be significant, the rewards are worth it.
Successful roofing business owners often earn between $80,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on their market and the scale of their operations.
By hiring skilled workers, building a trusted brand, and managing multiple projects using tools like our Invoicing Software for Roofing Businesses, you can multiply your income.
3. Focus on Customer Service
In the roofing industry, word-of-mouth referrals are invaluable. A satisfied customer can lead to repeat business and new clients through recommendations.
Build a reputation for high-quality workmanship, reliability, and excellent communication. Respond promptly to inquiries, keep clients informed throughout projects, and always follow through on your promises.
Happy customers are more likely to leave positive reviews and recommend your services to friends and family, helping you secure higher-paying jobs.
4. Specialize in High-Demand Niches
Focusing on niche services like solar panel installation, green roofing, or energy-efficient systems can significantly boost your income. These specialized areas often command premium rates and are in growing demand as more clients prioritize sustainability and renewable energy.
5. Stay Updated on Industry Trends
The roofing industry is constantly evolving, with new technologies, materials, and techniques emerging regularly.
By staying up to date—whether through continuing education, attending trade shows, or networking with industry professionals—you can offer clients cutting-edge solutions and stand out from competitors.
6. Present Accurate Bids
Accurate and professional bids are essential for maximizing your earnings as a roofer. An accurate bid not only helps you secure projects but also ensures you’re appropriately compensated for your time, materials, and effort.
Tip! Read our article on How to Bid A Roofing Job to learn more about how to improve your bidding process.
Final Thoughts About Roofer Salaries
So, to sum up, how much do roofers make?
The answer varies widely based on factors like location, experience, and specialization. With average annual salaries ranging from $40,000 to $60,000—and the potential to earn over $100,000 as a contractor or business owner—roofing is a stable and rewarding career path.
The industry’s steady growth and increasing demand for skilled professionals mean there’s plenty of opportunity to advance, whether you’re starting out or looking to expand your business.
By gaining experience, pursuing certifications, and staying up-to-date on industry trends, you can set yourself apart and boost your earning potential.
