How Much Does a Metal Roof Cost? [2026 Data]

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Cost Insights:
  • Metal roof replacement costs between $6,043 and $18,340, with your total determined by roof size and the metal you choose.

  • The metal gauge and roof design complexity affect your final cost, with steeper pitches and thicker materials increasing the labor required.

  • Remember to account for old roof removal, underlayment, permits, and roof decking repairs when you create your project budget.

  • Hiring a local metal roof installation professional keeps your home weather-tight and boosts ROI with a professional finish.

In 2026, the national average cost for a metal roof is $11,764, based on 4,408 verified projects from Angi Pros. Most homeowners pay between $6,043 and $18,340, with the range driven by roof size, metal type and gauge, and the complexity of your roof's design.

What Is the Average Metal Roof Cost?

A new metal roof costs an average of $11,764, with most homeowners spending between $6,045 to $18,342, depending on roof size and material choice. Totals can run as low as $1,500 for a small, simple project or as high as $34,900 for a large home with premium materials. The type of metal you choose is the single biggest driver of cost, so getting clear on your material options early helps you set a realistic budget.

How Angi Gets Its Cost Data

To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We’ve surveyed thousands of real Angi customers about their project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects. 

How Does Metal Roof Pricing Change With Size?

Metal roofs cost between $4 to $30 per square foot, with the type of material being the primary driver of where your project lands in that range. The larger your roof area, the higher your total will be. Most pros charge by the roofing square, with each square covering 100 square feet. 

Use the chart below to estimate your cost based on your home's footprint, noting that prices assume a simple gable roof with a standard roof pitch:

Home Square FootageAverage Metal Roof Cost Range in 2026
1,000$6,000–$45,000
1,500$9,000–$67,500
2,000$12,000–$90,000
2,500$15,000–$112,500
3,000$18,000–$135,000

Metal Roof Material Costs: Which Type Fits Your Budget?

The type of metal you choose has the biggest impact on material cost, ranging from $4 to $11 per square foot for aluminum roofs up to $15 to $30 per square foot for copper. Lead, rusted, steel, tin, and zinc roofs cost somewhere in between those two extremes. Materials differ in visual appeal, durability, and maintenance requirements, so talk through your options with a roofing pro before committing. 

Here's how metal type affects your cost, including materials, labor, and the proper fasteners and underlayment for your metal roof:

Metal Roof MaterialAverage Cost Range per Sq. Ft. in 2026
Aluminum$4–$11
Copper$15–$30
Lead$10–$15
Rusted$9–$15
Steel$6–$16
Tin$5–$12
Zinc$6–$12

Roof Contractor Costs: What You Pay for Labor

Labor typically accounts for 60% of your total metal roof cost, averaging around $7,000 for most projects. The roofer's experience level, local market demand, and the warranty coverage the company offers all influence where your labor costs land. Getting multiple quotes from licensed contractors helps you understand the going rate in your area before you commit.

Metal Roof Costs by State: Where Rates Run the Highest

Metal roof replacement costs vary significantly by location, with higher-cost states like California ($16,800) and New York ($14,300) sitting well above the national average. More affordable states like Georgia ($10,600) and Texas ($10,700) offer lower rates, largely due to differences in labor costs and cost of living. Prices also tend to run higher in major metropolitan areas compared to rural markets. 

Here's what you might pay for a metal roof based on location:

  • California: $16,800

  • Florida: $12,000

  • Georgia: $10,600

  • Illinois: $10,800

  • Michigan: $10,600

  • New York: $14,300

  • North Carolina: $11,400

  • Ohio: $10,900

  • Pennsylvania: $11,100

  • Texas: $10,700

Additional Metal Roof Cost Factors: What Determines the Price?

Metal gauge costs range from $20 to $30 per square foot for the thickest 22-gauge option down to $4 to $10 per square foot for the thinnest 29-gauge option. Beyond material and labor, several other factors shape your final metal roof cost, including roof style, fastener type, and roof pitch. Your roof style alone can shift costs considerably. Steeper pitches, complex roof designs, and add-ons like snow guards or rails push costs higher, while choices like exposed fasteners can reduce them.

Here is how additional cost factors affect your budget: 

  • Roof style: $3.50–$15 per square foot for corrugated metal, $7–$22 per square foot for metal shingles, $4–$6.50 per square foot for sheet metal, $7–$30 per square foot for standing seam roofs

  • Roof design: 15%–25% more expensive for complex designs, such as hip roofs or roofs with bump-outs and dormers, than for simple gable metal roofs

  • Type of fasteners: 30%–50% less for exposed fasteners than for hidden fasteners

  • Gauge of metal: $20–$30 per square foot for 22 gauge (the thickest option) to $4–$10 per square foot for 29 gauge (the thinnest option), with other gauges in between

  • Roof pitch: 15%–35% more expensive for steeper pitches

  • Snow guards or rails: $1,000–$4,000

  • Old roof removal: $1,000–$5,000

  • Roof decking repair: $2–$5 per square foot

  • Underlayment: $1 per square foot for felt paper, $1.30 per square foot for high-heat shield, $1.20 per square foot for synthetic (adhered), $1.15 per square foot for synthetic (nailed)

  • Permits: $250–$500

  • Warranties: $300–$500 more for a reliable roofing contractor who stands behind their work with a labor warranty and uses high-quality materials backed by a long manufacturer's warranty

What to Expect With a Roof Installation

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro To Install a Metal Roof

DIYing your metal roof installation could save you an average of around $7,000 on labor costs, or between $3,400 and $10,500 total. That said, while the potential cost savings might be tempting, we recommend leaving the work to a professional.

Here's why it's beneficial to hire a pro:

  • Metal roof installation is a complex process that requires specialized skills.

  • DIY installation could lead to expensive roof leaks, water damage, and other related problems that might cost thousands to repair.

  • Working on any roof is inherently dangerous, and the risk increases when installing slick metal roofing.

  • Most roofing manufacturers will void their warranty coverage if a licensed professional doesn't complete the installation.

While it's best to hire a pro, you might attempt DIY installation in the following scenarios:

  • You have construction or roofing experience.

  • The roof is small and simple (like a shed or barn).

  • You're using a simple system, such as corrugated panels with exposed fasteners.

  • You have the proper safety gear, including harnesses and ladders.

  • You're not concerned with voiding warranties.

Contact a metal roof installer near you for safe and reliable roof replacement, done right the first time.

Metal Roof Replacement vs. Repair

The cost to install a metal roof will almost always be higher than the cost of a partial repair:

Here's when you might replace your metal roof:

  • Widespread corrosion or rust

  • Recurring leaks in multiple areas

  • Structural issues

  • Nearing the end of lifespan

  • Improper installation or significant installation errors

  • Desire to upgrade energy efficiency, curb appeal, or resale value

Here's when a metal roof repair might be better:

  • Isolated damage (a couple of panels, minor dents, sealant failures, etc.)

  • Limited leaks in small areas

  • Less than 25 to 30 years old

  • Superficial rust

  • Tight budget

Paying for a roof inspection might be a good idea to see if a repair is a feasible option; these cost $250 on average.

How To Save Money on Metal Roof Costs

The cost of metal roof replacement can add up quickly, but several things can keep the costs down:

  1. Considering more affordable options, such as aluminum, tin, or steel, over a luxurious copper roof could save you thousands. For example, aluminum costs $4 to $11 per square foot while copper costs $15 to $30 per square foot.

  2. Consider the temperatures in your area and choose a more reflective metal or color to reduce cooling costs by 10% to 25%.

  3. Adding insulation beneath your metal roof can reduce heating costs by approximately 10% to 40%, depending on your climate, the quality and thickness of the insulation, and your home's overall energy efficiency.

  4. If only a portion of your existing metal roof is damaged, consider a roofing repair, which might cost $1 to $5 per square foot.

Does a Metal Roof Increase Home Value?

You can expect an ROI of around 60% for metal roof replacement, or an average return of $7,000. Replacing an old metal roof will increase a home's value. Not only does it improve curb appeal, but buyers often pay more for the peace of mind that a new roof and lengthy warranties provide.

Next Steps
  • DIY metal roof installation could save between $3,400 and $10,500 on labor costs, but it’s not recommended for most homeowners. 

  • Pros have the proper skills and safety equipment for the job, and incorrect installation often leads to costly repairs. 

  • Pros normally charge a flat rate that includes permit costs, removing the old roof, and installing the new one.

  • Consider repairs instead for minor issues on a newer roof. 

Frequently Asked Questions

You can technically install a metal roof over asphalt shingles, but it isn’t a good idea. This is because you’re essentially creating a moisture barrier under the metal, which can easily—and often does—lead to significant mold damage. Removing an asphalt roof isn’t terribly expensive, and some roofing companies might cut you a serious labor and disposal discount if you add it to a new install.

You can install solar panels on a metal roof, but it will require some additional thought and care versus a traditional asphalt shingle roof. That’s because heat dissipates off a metal roof differently than asphalt or wood, so you may need to space the panels further from the roof. However, a pro can help you with the details and provide a safe and effective installation.

When properly insulated and installed, rain on metal roofs and asphalt roofs shouldn’t differ too much. Most modern metal roofs should make the sound of a tiny thud, not the metal panging one might expect. You should note that gaps between the roof and the support may increase the sound of rain, and it will be heard more in the upper floors than in a downstairs living room or kitchen.

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