What does a roofer do?
- Remove old roofing and inspect for damage.
- Install shingles, metal, tile and flat roofing systems.
- Seal and waterproof roofs and flashing.
- Repair leaks and storm damage.
Where do roofers work?
- Rooftops of homes and businesses
- Outdoors in all seasons
- New construction and repair jobs
Is a career as a roofer right for you?
It could be a good fit if:
- You're comfortable with heights and physical work.
- You like working outdoors as part of a crew.
- You want to start earning without a long training program.
How to become a roofer
There are usually no formal education requirements. Most roofers learn on the job, and some enter through an apprenticeship.
How much do roofers make?
The median pay for roofers in the U.S. was $55,440 a year in May 2025, and most earned between $37,460 to $81,720 a year. Median pay describes the whole trade, not a first-year wage: pay usually rises with experience, licenses and specialty.
Roofer pay by state
| State | Median annual wage |
|---|---|
| United States | $55,440 |
| Massachusetts | $72,750 |
| New Hampshire | $59,830 |
Job outlook for roofers
U.S. employment of roofers is projected to change by +5% (faster than average) from 2025 to 2035, with about 12,000 openings each year on average. There were 166,900 roofer jobs in the U.S. in 2025.
Things to know
- Median pay describes the whole trade, not a first-year wage. Pay rises with experience and skills.
- Roofing is physically demanding and carries a real risk of falls, so safety training and equipment matter.
- Summer is the busiest season, often with overtime.
Roofer FAQ
What does a roofer do?
Roofers replace, repair and install the roofs of homes and other buildings. Typical work includes: remove old roofing and inspect for damage; install shingles, metal, tile and flat roofing systems; seal and waterproof roofs and flashing; repair leaks and storm damage.
How do you become a roofer?
There are usually no formal education requirements. Most roofers learn on the job, and some enter through an apprenticeship.
How much do roofers make?
The median pay for roofers in the U.S. was $55,440 a year (May 2025, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook: Roofers). Most earn between $37,460 to $81,720 a year. Pay varies by state, experience and specialty.
Are roofers in demand?
U.S. employment of roofers is projected to change by +5% (faster than average) from 2025 to 2035, with about 12,000 job openings each year on average (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).
Which states pay roofers the most?
By median annual wage in May 2025, the highest-paying states for roofers were Massachusetts ($72,750), New Hampshire ($59,830), according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Sources
Figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Wayforge is a career-planning tool, not an official licensing source; always confirm requirements with your state licensing board.