The average cost of roof shingles is between $7,500 and $15,000 for a 2,500-square-foot roof, or $3 to $6 per square foot installed.
The type of shingles you choose is one of the biggest cost factors when pricing a roof replacement. Basic 3-tab asphalt shingles cost as little as $1.50 to $3 for material and installation, while luxury asphalt shingles can exceed $15 per square foot. You can also find shingles made from slate, composite, rubber, metal, and wood. These usually carry a significantly higher price tag.
The size of your roof, necessary repairs, and old shingle removal will also contribute to your final bill. Read below for a breakdown of the average roof shingles cost by type, and learn what factors will influence how much you pay for a roof replacement.
This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
What Is the Cost of Roof Shingles?
On average, roofing shingles cost $3 to $6 per square foot. Lower-end shingles may cost as little as $1 per square foot, while premium options can reach $20 per square foot or higher.
| Cost Range | Cost Per Square Foot | Average Cost Per Project* |
| Low-end cost range | $1–$2 | $2,500–$5,000 |
| National average cost range | $3–$6 | $7,500–$15,000 |
| High-end cost range | $8–$12 | $20,000–$30,000 |
| Extreme high-end cost range | $14–$20 | $35,000–$50,000 |
*Estimates based on a 2,500-square-foot roof.
We source cost data from a project estimator for contractors and home improvement experts. The figures listed in this article include rough labor and material costs.
What Factors Impact the Cost of Roof Shingles?
Not all shingles — or roofs, for that matter — are built equal. When shopping for a new shingle roof, consider how the following factors may affect the price:
- Type of shingle
- Shingle material
- Roof size
How Much Roof Shingles Cost by Type
Although asphalt shingles are often the most cost-effective and popular roofing material, their prices vary by style.
Here are the three types of asphalt shingles and their associated price ranges:
| Roof Shingle Type | Cost per Square Foot | Average Cost per Project* |
|---|---|---|
| 3-tab shingles | $1–$3 | $3,750–$8,750 |
| Architectural shingles | $4.50–$8.50 | $11,250–$21,250 |
| Luxury shingles | $8–$13 | $20,000–$32,500 |
*Estimates based on a 2,500-square-foot roof.
3-tab Roof Shingles
3-tab shingles ($1 to $3 per square foot) are the cheapest, most basic asphalt shingle option. They consist of mineral bits, asphalt, and fiberglass sectioned into three tabs. These shingles lack the dimension of architectural shingles, which may be an aesthetic drawback for some homeowners. However, they’re ideal for those seeking a clean, flat roofline.
Architectural Roof Shingles
The cost of architectural shingles, also called laminated or dimensional shingles, typically ranges from $4.50 to $8.50 per square foot. They provide a more original look than their 3-tab counterparts. Architectural shingles also contain a higher-quality asphalt-fiberglass mixture, making them more durable and longer-lasting.
Luxury Roof Shingles
Luxury shingles ($8 to $13 per square foot) are the most expensive asphalt shingle options due to their larger size, unique shape, and higher-end composition. Premium shingles are designed to mimic the appearance of natural slate shingles, which yield higher manufacturing costs.
How Much Shingle Roofing Costs by Material
Shingles aren’t only available for asphalt roofs. They come in many materials to suit unique aesthetic preferences and can offer benefits beyond what asphalt shingles can provide. While asphalt, rubber, and cedar shingles are often the lowest-cost materials, others like composite, fiberglass, and slate can double or even triple your costs.
Before choosing a specific roof shingle material, assess the price points and the pros and cons accompanying each. The table below provides an overview of average shingle prices by material.
| Shingle Material | Cost per Square Foot | Average Cost per Project* |
| Asphalt shingles | $3–$6 | $7,500–$15,000 |
| Rubber shingles | $4–$8 | $10,000–$20,000 |
| Wood shingles | $4.50–$8.50 | $11,250–$21,250 |
| Metal shingles | $6–$14 | $15,000–$35,000 |
| Wood shakes | $6–$11 | $15,000–$27,500 |
| Fiberglass shingles | $7–$9 | $17,500–$22,500 |
| Composite shingles | $4-$8 | $10,000–$20,000 |
| Natural slate shingles | $9–$30 | $22,500–$75,000 |
*Estimates based on a 2,500-square-foot roof.
Asphalt Roof Shingles
Asphalt shingle roofing is the most popular option among homeowners. The cost of asphalt shingles are low, and the shingles are durable and easy to install, allowing for lower installation costs and maintenance expenses down the road.
Rubber Roof Shingles
Rubber shingles are popular for homes in severe weather climates. These affordable shingles feature hurricane-grade performance and excellent resistance to water damage, mold, pests, and rot.
Wood Roof Shingles
Wood shingles are a higher-end alternative to asphalt shingles, providing a classic, rustic aesthetic. Wood is energy-efficient and insulative, keeping indoor temperatures stable even as external temperatures rise and fall. However, wood roofing requires more maintenance than asphalt and may not be permitted in fire-prone areas.
Metal Roof Shingles
Metal shingles, (also known as stamped metal roofing), is ideal for homeowners who don’t mind spending more on a new roof. The material is highly energy-efficient and completely fire-resistant, making it a top choice for homes in hot, dry climates. Read our article to find out the cost of a metal roof.
Wood Shakes
Wood shakes are a pricier version of wood shingles that offer added visual benefits. Cedar shakes are hand-split instead of machine-cut, which creates a natural appearance and a higher price. Cedar shakes, like wood shingles, are relatively high maintenance but provide good insulation and unique curb appeal.
Fiberglass Roof Shingles
Fiberglass shingles (find out the cost of fiberglass shingles) contain a dense fiberglass material layered with asphalt and a UV coating. They often closely resemble asphalt shingles but provide added resistance against warping, UV damage, water, and fire.
Composite Roof Shingles
Composite shingles are a top choice for homeowners seeking a long-lasting, highly durable roof. They’re designed to mimic wood or slate roofing shingles but can last up to 50 years with little to no maintenance. This means enhanced curb appeal and longevity for a fraction of the effort.
Slate Roof Shingles
Slate roofing shingles are comprised of natural stone cut into individual tiles. This material’s high sourcing and manufacturing costs mean it costs significantly more than asphalt shingles. However, when properly maintained, slate can last up to 100 years or more.
How Much Roof Shingles Cost by Roof Size
Roofing materials are often priced by square, equivalent to 100 square feet of roofing area.
But beware — you can’t just use your home’s square footage to determine your roof size. Roofs are sloped to provide water runoff and visual appeal. For this reason, your roof has more square footage than your home’s first floor.
Read also: Top-Rated Roofing Materials
When calculating your potential roof shingle costs, use the 1.25 Rule. Multiply your home’s size by 1.25 for a solid estimate of your roof’s square footage. For example, someone with a 3,000-square-foot home should assess cost estimates for a 3,750-square-foot roof.
If the surface is particularly sloped, you must account for a larger roof size. We recommend using a roofing calculator tool to find more accurate size estimates based on your home’s size and roof pitch.
We used the 1.25 Rule to estimate the potential cost of asphalt shingles for various home sizes:
| Home Size (Square Feet) | Average Project Cost |
| 1,000 | $2,000–$4,000 |
| 1,500 | $3,000–$6,000 |
| 2,000 | $4,000–$8,000 |
| 2,500 | $5,000–$10,000 |
| 3,000 | $6,000–$12,000 |
| 3,500 | $7,000–$14,000 |
| 4,000 | $8,000–$16,000 |
This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
Which Other Factors Impact Roof Shingle Costs?
The price of your new roofing shingles depends on more than just roof size, materials, and shingle style. When planning roof replacement costs, you must also account for the added expenses of labor and installation, brand premiums, and geographic location.
- Labor and installation fees: These add approximately $45 to $60 per hour per crew member to your total cost. For more intricate roof patterns and steeper roofs, this cost can exceed $100 per worker per hour. Labor fees often account for much of your final cost, so budget accordingly.
- Existing roofing materials replacement: Contractors must tear off and discard old shingles, which can add $2 to $4 per square foot to your price. You may also pay extra for disposal and haul-away fees to remove the old materials.
- Roof type: Simple gable roofs are easier to access, which means lower labor fees. Other, more intricate roof patterns like hip and gambrel roofs may cost more.
- Location: Where you live may play a role in your final project costs. Labor and material costs vary depending on availability and by region. For this reason, your prices may be higher or lower than the national average.
- Shingle brand: The brand you select will inevitably affect your costs. Some brands offer specialized shingles with impact-resistance and solar-powered qualities. These premium products will have a much higher cost than standard roofing shingles. Meanwhile, budget brands focus on high-quality standard shingles at affordable prices. We recommend researching and getting quotes from multiple roofing companies to compare potential prices.
What Are the Benefits of Investing in New Roof Shingles?
The benefits of installing new roof shingles depend primarily on the material. For example, metal roof shingles provide optimal fire resistance, while wood offers an eye-catching rustic appeal.
Materials such as asphalt and rubber shingles offer extended durability at a more affordable price.
New Roof Shingles Improve the Value of Your Home
A new shingle roof can boost your home’s resale value. According to Zillow, a new roof can speed up the sale process while increasing the dollar amount and quantity of offers you receive. Among these attractive benefits, new shingle roofs also boast 60%–70% returns on investment, helping you recoup the money you spent on the replacement.
Professional Vs. DIY Roof Shingle Installation: Which Is Worth It?
You may be tempted to reshingle your roof without the help of a professional to save money on labor fees. But remember, all roofing projects require specific skills to protect your home from the elements and special equipment to ensure your safety while working dozens of feet off the ground.
Read this guide to learn more about the steps involved with DIY shingle installation.
Cost Comparison of Hiring a Pro Vs. DIY
Shingling your own roof can cost between $6,000 and $7,000 for materials alone, depending on the roof’s size. Let’s say you purchase 3-tab shingles, metal flashing, underlayment, and nails for the project. Add on the costs of tools, safety equipment, dumpster rental, and any helping hands, and your costs will likely exceed $8,500.
Compare this cost estimate to the national average price range of $7,500 to $15,000 for hiring a professional. Considering the benefits you’ll get with a professional roofing job — expertise, liability insurance, and product warranties — and the potential savings of DIY may not be worth the work or the safety risk.
Hiring a Professional Roofer Is Worth the Cost
Roofing is one of the most dangerous home improvement projects. We recommend hiring a professional roofer for your shingle installation project. Not only will a pro have the materials, equipment, and expertise to get the job done right, but they’ll also provide added benefits that could save you money on future repairs and replacements. In this sense, investing in a professional roofer is worth the extra cost you might save by going DIY.
How To Hire a Professional for Roof Shingle Installation
Not sure how to start the hiring process? Follow the steps below to find the best contractor for your roof shingle installation.
- Explore local roofing company options. Search for trustworthy roofing contractors in your area. We recommend reading real customer reviews and assessing company standing before retrieving quotes.
- Obtain multiple quotes. Get shingle roof installation quotes from at least three top providers to ensure you get the services you need at the right prices.
- Discuss your options with the contractor. Before embarking on the project, ask your contractor for recommendations on the shingle types and materials available. Professional roofers will likely have insight into the benefits and drawbacks of different shingle types for your location and climate.
- Read the fine print and get a final quote. Never hire a home improvement expert without first reading the fine print of your contract and ensuring your agreed-upon quote is binding. This step will save you from costly surprises and headaches throughout the process.
So, Are New Roof Shingles Worth the Cost?
Roofing shingles generally cost $3 to $6 per square foot, making them one of the most economical options for a new roof. However, roofing costs ultimately depend on the material, type, and the number of shingles your roof needs.
Now that you understand the costs and benefits of investing in a new shingle roof, you can start retrieving quotes from reputable contractors. Use the form below to find the best roofing installers in your area.
This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
FAQs About Roofing Shingles
A bundle of shingles includes between 15 and 30 individual shingles or 33 square feet of roofing material. The cost of a bundle varies by shingle type and material, with 3-tab shingles costing between $35 and $40 per bundle.
A bundle of architectural shingles costs significantly more, usually from about $50 to $100, if you purchase them at a major home improvement store.
The national average cost of a roof repair is $1,000. For water damage and leaks, this price jumps to between $1,500 and $3,000. If you only need to replace a small section of curled or damaged shingles and you’re doing the work yourself, the price could be as low as a couple hundred dollars.
We suggest replacing the entire roof if repair costs exceed $3,000. Putting the money toward a full roof replacement will save you on future repairs while improving your home’s curb appeal and functionality.
Solar shingles or solar roof tiles consist of thin photovoltaic panels. These shingles operate as hundreds of tiny solar panels, capturing and transforming sunlight into electricity to power your home. Solar shingles can mimic the look of other shingle types, such as slate or asphalt.
While solar shingles can provide renewable energy and lower electricity bills, they are expensive, costing between $20 and $30 per square foot. However, tax incentives may be offered to help offset the high price. Solar shingles usually last about as long as an asphalt roof, with a lifespan of 20 to 30 years.
Whether you need a new roof often depends on the type and age of your current roof. One rule of thumb is to assess how long you’ve had it. If the material is reaching the end of its projected life span, around 20 years for asphalt shingles, you should likely consider a replacement.
Otherwise, you can look for the following signs that your roof needs to be replaced:
- Interior leaks or water damage
- Serious wind or hail damage
- Ice dam formation in winter
- Sagging or roof deck rot
- Numerous cracked or warped shingles
- Roofing particle buildup in your gutters
A professional inspection will give you the best insight into your roof’s condition and determine whether repairs or a full replacement is in your best interest.
