How Much Do Roofers Make? Complete Salary Guide
⚡ Quick Answer: How much do roofers make? On average, roofers in the U nited States earn between $45,000 and $65,000 per year. The median annual wage is approximately $48,720 (BLS, 2024). Entry-level roofers start around $30,000–$38,000, while experienced journeymen and foremen earn $55,000–$80,000+. Self-employed roofing contractors can earn $75,000–$120,000+ annually depending on location, specialty, and business volume.
The Real Money in Roofing
Whether you're considering a career in the trades, hiring a roofing crew, or simply curious about how much roofers make, this guide delivers every data point you need — broken down by experience, state, specialty, and employment type. We've compiled the most up-to-date national salary data, regional breakdowns, and real-world earning factors so you get the full picture.
At Assured Contracting LLC, we work with roofing professionals daily. We know firsthand that roofing isn't just a physically demanding trade — it's a highly skilled career path with serious earning potential that most people underestimate.
How Much Do Roofers Make — National Average
Understanding what roofers earn nationally provides the baseline. Here is the complete salary breakdown:
| Pay Metric | Annual Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0–2 yrs) | $30,000 – $38,000 | $14 – $18/hr |
| Average / Median | $45,000 – $52,000 | $21 – $25/hr |
| Experienced (5–10 yrs) | $55,000 – $72,000 | $26 – $35/hr |
| Master Roofer / Foreman | $70,000 – $90,000 | $34 – $43/hr |
| Self-Employed Contractor | $75,000 – $120,000+ | $36 – $58/hr |
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for roofers is $48,720. However, this figure represents the midpoint — the top 10% of roofers earn more than $79,000 annually, and those in specialized roles or high-cost markets earn even more.
The BLS median understates actual earning potential because it excludes self-employed contractors, overtime pay, and seasonal bonuses — all of which are common in roofing.
How Much Do Roofers Make by State
Location is one of the single biggest factors in roofing salaries. States with higher costs of living, more extreme weather, and greater construction demand consistently pay more. Here's a state-by-state comparison:
| State | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | $70,500 | $33.89 | Highest avg. in USA |
| Illinois | $66,800 | $32.11 | Union-heavy market |
| Massachusetts | $65,200 | $31.34 | High cost of living |
| New Jersey | $63,900 | $30.72 | Dense metro market |
| Connecticut | $62,700 | $30.14 | Strong union presence |
| California | $61,400 | $29.52 | High demand, regulations |
| Florida | $48,200 | $23.17 | Hurricane repair demand |
| Texas | $46,800 | $22.50 | High volume, lower rates |
| North Carolina | $44,500 | $21.39 | Growing market |
| Alabama | $39,200 | $18.84 | Lower cost of living |
| Mississippi | $37,800 | $18.17 | Lowest avg. nationally |
Florida Focus: In South Florida markets like Oakland Park and Broward County, roofers average $48,000–$58,000/year with storm-season surge pay pushing totals higher. The demand for Metal Roofing in Oakland Park has driven specialty roofer wages well above the state average, as metal installation requires additional certifications and skill sets.
Roofer Salary by Experience Level
Entry-Level Roofers (0–2 Years)
New roofers typically start as helpers or laborers. At this stage:
- Hourly pay: $14 – $18/hr
- Annual earnings: $30,000 – $38,000
- Work primarily involves carrying materials, basic installation, and cleanup
- Many start through apprenticeship programs (NRCA, union apprenticeships)
- Overtime during busy seasons can add $3,000–$6,000/year
Journeyman Roofer (2–5 Years)
After gaining core skills, roofers become journeymen and see significant pay increases:
- Hourly pay: $20 – $28/hr
- Annual earnings: $42,000 – $58,000
- Can work independently on most residential and light commercial projects
- Specialty certifications (metal roofing, flat roof systems) add $2–$5/hr
Experienced / Senior Roofer (5–10 Years)
- Hourly pay: $26 – $35/hr
- Annual earnings: $55,000 – $72,000
- Often leads crews or manages smaller jobs
- Strong track record allows for higher negotiating leverage
Roofing Foreman / Crew Lead
- Annual earnings: $65,000 – $90,000
- Responsible for job site safety, quality control, and crew management
- Often earns 20–35% more than senior installers
Roofing Contractor (Self-Employed)
- Annual earnings: $75,000 – $120,000+
- Income depends heavily on business development, market, and volume
- Top contractors in high-demand metros can exceed $150,000/year
- Must account for business overhead: insurance, equipment, payroll
Roofer Salary by Roofing Specialty
Not all roofing is equal — specialty areas command significantly higher wages. Here's how specialty impacts pay:
| Roofing Specialty | Avg. Hourly Pay | Avg. Annual Salary | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asphalt Shingles (Residential) | $20 – $28/hr | $42,000 – $58,000 | Moderate |
| Metal Roofing | $28 – $42/hr | $58,000 – $87,000 | High |
| Flat / Low-Slope (EPDM, TPO) | $25 – $36/hr | $52,000 – $75,000 | High |
| Tile Roofing (Clay/Concrete) | $26 – $38/hr | $54,000 – $79,000 | High |
| Slate Roofing | $32 – $48/hr | $67,000 – $100,000 | Very High |
| Green / Living Roofs | $30 – $45/hr | $62,000 – $93,000 | Very High |
| Commercial Roofing | $27 – $40/hr | $56,000 – $83,000 | High |
| Roof Repair Specialist | $24 – $38/hr | $50,000 – $79,000 | Moderate-High |
🔧 Metal Roofing Premium: Metal roofing specialists consistently earn 30–50% more than asphalt shingle installers. The installation requires precision, specialized tools, and knowledge of expansion/contraction properties — skills that take years to master and command premium wages.
Union vs. Non-Union Roofer Pay
Union membership is a major salary differentiator in the roofing industry. Here's an honest comparison:
| Factor | Union Roofer | Non-Union Roofer |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Hourly Wage | $32 – $48/hr | $18 – $30/hr |
| Benefits Package | Full (health, dental, pension) | Varies by employer |
| Apprenticeship | Structured (JATC) | On-the-job learning |
| Job Security | Higher (contract protections) | Market-dependent |
| Geographic Flexibility | Limited to jurisdiction | More flexible |
| Overtime Rules | Strictly regulated | Employer-determined |
Bottom Line: Union roofers in major metros (Chicago, New York, Boston) can earn $80,000–$110,000+ annually with benefits factored in. Non-union roofers often have more flexibility but less income certainty.
Roofer Hourly Wage: What You Actually Take Home
The hourly wage is the most common way roofing pay is discussed. Let's break down what the numbers actually mean in take-home pay:
| Hourly Rate | 40-hr Week | Monthly (gross) | Annual (gross) |
|---|---|---|---|
| $15/hr (entry) | $600 | $2,600 | $31,200 |
| $20/hr (junior) | $800 | $3,467 | $41,600 |
| $25/hr (mid-level) | $1,000 | $4,333 | $52,000 |
| $30/hr (senior) | $1,200 | $5,200 | $62,400 |
| $38/hr (foreman) | $1,520 | $6,587 | $79,040 |
| $45/hr (specialist) | $1,800 | $7,800 | $93,600 |
Note: These are gross figures. After taxes, a roofer earning $52,000/year typically takes home $38,000–$42,000 depending on state income tax, deductions, and filing status.
Roofers regularly work 50–60 hour weeks during peak season (spring through fall). At 1.5x overtime for hours over 40, a roofer making $25/hr base can earn $37.50/hr for overtime — significantly boosting annual income by $5,000–$15,000 during busy periods.
7 Key Factors That Determine How Much Roofers Make
Beyond the basics, these variables have a direct, measurable impact on roofer earnings:
7.1 Geographic Location
The single biggest variable. Urban metros pay 40–70% more than rural areas. Weather patterns (hurricane zones, heavy snow regions) create consistent demand, supporting higher wages.
7.2 Certifications and Licenses
Certified roofers earn measurably more. Key certifications that boost pay:
- GAF Master Elite Contractor Certification
- CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster
- OSHA 30 Safety Certification
- NRCA ProCertification (Steep-Slope and Low-Slope)
- Metal Roofing Alliance (MRA) Certification
- State contractor's license (required in most states)
7.3 Seasonality
Roofing is highly seasonal. Most roofers earn 60–70% of their annual income between April and October. In northern states, winter months may involve unemployment or reduced hours. In Florida and the Southwest, the season is longer but summer heat creates its own slowdowns.
7.4 Employer Type
- Large commercial roofing companies: Most stable pay, benefits, overtime
- Small residential contractors: Often higher hourly but fewer hours
- General contractors: May include roofing alongside other trades
- Self-employment: Highest ceiling, highest risk
7.5 Insurance and Benefits Value
When evaluating total compensation, don't ignore benefits. A roofer making $40,000 with full health insurance, a pension, and paid vacation has a total compensation package worth $52,000–$58,000 when benefits are monetized.
Roofing Industry Job Outlook & Future Earning Potential
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects roofing jobs to grow 2–4% through 2032, roughly on par with the average for all occupations. However, real-world demand factors suggest stronger actual growth:
- Aging housing stock: Millions of American homes have roofs that are 15–25+ years old and due for replacement
- Climate-driven damage: Increasing hurricane, hail, and wind events driving repair and replacement demand
- New construction: Population growth in Sun Belt states fueling new residential and commercial roofing work
- Trade shortage: Fewer young workers entering the trades means those already in the field command higher wages
- Energy-efficient roofing: Growing demand for cool roofs, metal roofing, and solar-integrated systems creating premium specialty niches
📈 Wage Trend: Average roofing wages have increased approximately 18–22% over the past five years — outpacing inflation. The trade labor shortage is expected to keep upward pressure on wages through the late 2020s.
How to Make More Money as a Roofer (Actionable Strategies)
If you're already in roofing — or planning to enter the field — these proven strategies will maximize your earning potential:
Specialize in High-Value Roofing Types
Metal, slate, tile, and green roofing pay 30–60% premiums over asphalt. Invest in training and certifications for these specialties.
Get Manufacturer Certifications
GAF Master Elite, CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster, and similar certifications qualify you for higher-margin work and preferred contractor programs.
Move to High-Demand Markets
Relocating from a rural area to a major metro or hurricane belt can increase your salary by $10,000–$25,000 without any change in skill level.
Join a Union
In union-heavy states, joining the UBCA (United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners) or local sheet metal/roofing union can double your hourly rate and add benefits worth tens of thousands per year.
Start Your Own Company
The income ceiling for employees is around $90,000; the ceiling for contractors is unlimited. With a strong reputation and business acumen, $150,000+ is achievable.
Pursue Foreman or Superintendent Roles
Moving into supervision adds $15,000–$30,000/year over field pay without requiring business ownership.
Master Commercial Roofing
Commercial projects pay more, run longer, and provide steadier year-round income than residential work
Offer Emergency / Storm Restoration Services
Post-hurricane and post-storm work pays at premium rates with urgent timelines. Being licensed for insurance restoration work is a major income multiplier
Roofing Apprenticeship Programs & Starting Salaries
Most roofers enter the trade through informal on-the-job training or formal apprenticeship programs. Here's what you can expect:
NRCA (National Roofing Contractors Association) Apprenticeship
- Duration: 2–3 years
- Starting wage: $14–$18/hr
- Completion wage: $22–$28/hr
- Includes: Safety, installation techniques, blueprint reading, material science
Union Apprenticeship (UBCA / Sheet Metal Workers)
- Duration: 3–4 years
- Starting wage: 50% of journeyman rate (typically $16–$22/hr)
- Completion wage: Full journeyman rate ($32–$48/hr in most union markets)
- Includes: Paid classroom instruction, benefits during training, guaranteed wage progression
On-the-Job Training (Non-Apprenticeship)
- Most common path: 70%+ of roofers learn this way
- Starting wage: $13–$17/hr
- Advancement based on performance and employer
- Faster to full income but less structured skill development
Roofer Salary vs. Other Construction Trades
How does roofing pay compare to other trades? Here's an honest comparison:
| Trade | Median Annual Pay | Top 10% Earns | Union Potential |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrician | $61,590 | $100,000+ | Very High |
| Plumber | $59,880 | $98,000+ | High |
| HVAC Technician | $57,300 | $92,000+ | Moderate |
| Roofer | $48,720 | $79,000+ | High |
| Carpenter | $51,390 | $85,000+ | High |
| Painter | $46,800 | $75,000+ | Moderate |
| Drywall Installer | $48,240 | $77,000+ | Moderate |
| Flooring Installer | $47,100 | $76,000+ | Low-Mod |
Roofing pays slightly below electricians and plumbers at the median level, but specialized roofers and contractors can close that gap significantly — especially in storm-prone markets where demand surges seasonally.
Self-Employed Roofer Income: The Real Numbers
Self-employment is where the highest roofer incomes are generated — but it comes with significant complexity. Here's an honest breakdown:
| Business Size | Annual Revenue | Overhead (avg. 40–50%) | Net Owner Income |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solo Contractor (1 crew) | $200,000 – $400,000 | $90,000 – $180,000 | $80,000 – $150,000 |
| Small Company (2–4 crews) | $500,000 – $1.2M | $250,000 – $600,000 | $120,000 – $250,000 |
| Mid-Size Company (5–10 crews) | $1.5M – $4M | $750K – $2M | $200,000 – $500,000 |
Key overhead costs for roofing contractors include: liability insurance ($8,000–$25,000/year), workers' compensation ($15,000–$60,000/year), vehicles and equipment, marketing, materials, and payroll. Controlling these costs is what separates profitable contractors from struggling ones.
About Assured Contracting LLC
At Assured Contracting LLC, we bring together experienced roofing professionals who are among the best-compensated in the industry — because we believe in paying for quality skill and delivering superior results to every client.
Our team specializes in residential and commercial roofing, storm damage restoration, and specialty roofing systems across South Florida. We maintain strict hiring standards and invest in ongoing training and certification for every member of our crew.
When you hire Assured Contracting LLC, you're working with verified professionals who are licensed, insured, and compensated fairly — which means they take pride in their work.
Conclusion: The Full Picture on Roofer Salaries
So, how much do roofers make? The answer depends on where you are, what you specialize in, and how far you advance your career. Here's the summary:
- National median: ~$48,720/year ($23/hr)
- Experienced roofers: $55,000–$80,000/year
- Specialists (metal, slate, commercial): $60,000–$100,000+
- Self-employed contractors: $80,000–$150,000+ net income
- Union journeymen in high-cost metros: $80,000–$110,000+ with benefits
Roofing is a physically demanding trade, but it's also one of the most economically rewarding for those who commit to mastering their craft. With the right certifications, the right market, and the right work ethic, roofing offers a clear path to a six-figure income without a college degree.
At Assured Contracting LLC, we're proud to be part of an industry that creates real, lasting careers for skilled tradespeople across South Florida and beyond. Whether you're researching the trade or looking for expert roofing services, we're here to help.