Trades & Labor California (CA) Rank #2 of 50

Roofer Salary in California

The median roofer salary in California is $67,367 per year, which is 43.0% above the national median of $47,110.

Median Salary
$67,367
vs National
+$20,257
State Rank
#2 of 50
Cost of Living
138%

Roofer Salary Overview in California (2026)

California ranks #2 out of 50 states for roofer compensation. This places California in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for roofers seeking high pay. At $67,367 per year, roofers in California earn $20,257 more than the national median of $47,110.

It's worth noting that California's cost of living is 138% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $67,367 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $48,817.

The salary spread in California is significant: roofers at the 10th percentile earn $42,900, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $107,250 — a $64,350 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in California for this role is San Francisco, where the median reaches $88,096.

Nationally, roofer employment is projected to grow 2% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for roofers across the country.

Roofer Salary in California by Experience

In California, an entry-level roofer earns around $45,760, while experienced professionals earn up to $102,960 per year. The cost of living index in California is 138% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$45,760
+$13,760 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$68,640
+$20,640 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$102,960
+$30,960 vs national

Build Wealth on Your Income

With a $67,367 income, financial advisors recommend investing 15–20% annually. Start building a diversified portfolio with as little as $10.

See Investment Options →

Salary Percentiles in California

Percentile CA Salary
10th Percentile $42,900
25th Percentile $52,910
Median (50th) $67,367
75th Percentile $85,800
90th Percentile $107,250

Roofer Salary by City in California

The largest employment areas for roofers in California include Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, and San Jose. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Roofer in California

Education

Most roofer positions require a high school diploma. California has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Roofing SystemsSafety/Fall ProtectionMaterial KnowledgePhysical StaminaBlueprint ReadingWaterproofing

Job Outlook in California

Nationally, roofer employment is projected to grow 2% over the next decade (as fast as average). California's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay

Data shows Roofers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $35,593 over your career trajectory.

Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →

Open to Roofer Roles in California?

Get matched with recruiters hiring roofers in California at competitive salaries.

Or browse positions directly:

Frequently Asked Questions: Roofer Salary in California

How much does a Roofer make in California? ▼
The median roofer salary in California is $67,367 per year, which is 43.0% above the national median of $47,110. Salaries range from $42,900 (10th percentile) to $107,250 (90th percentile).
How much does a Roofer make per hour in California? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $67,367, a roofer in California earns approximately $32 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is California a good state for roofers? ▼
California ranks #2 out of 50 states for roofer pay. The cost of living index is 138% of the national average. Entry-level roofers earn $45,760, while senior professionals earn $102,960.
How does California compare to other states for roofer salary? ▼
The highest paying state for roofers is Hawaii at $83,856. California's median of $67,367 ranks #2 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Hawaii ($83,856) and Massachusetts ($63,599).
What is the entry-level roofer salary in California? ▼
An entry-level roofer in California earns approximately $45,760 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $68,640. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $102,960.
What city in California pays roofers the most? ▼
San Francisco is the highest paying city in California for roofers, with a median salary of $88,096. Other cities include Los Angeles and San Diego.