Roofers Charge Per Square: What’s Typical and Why It’s Not Always Simple

If you’ve ever asked a roofing contractor, “How much will this cost?” you’ve probably heard the phrase “per square.” But here’s the catch: a “square” isn’t just any square. In roofer talk, one square means 100 square feet of roofing. So if your house has a 2,000 square foot roof, that’s 20 squares.

Prices per square are all over the map. On asphalt shingles, which are super common, most roofers in the U.S. will throw out numbers anywhere between $350 and $650 per square in 2025. Big city? Prices can hit $800—or more if you want metal, tile, or specialty stuff. Small town? Maybe closer to the lower end.

The price a roofer gives per square usually includes tearing off the old shingles, hauling the mess away, and putting the new roof on. But—and this is key—always ask what’s included. Nobody likes surprise costs halfway through a job.

• Roofing ‘Per Square’: What Does It Mean?
• Typical Price Ranges in 2025
• What Changes the Price Per Square?
• Smart Tips to Get a Fair Deal

Roofing ‘Per Square’: What Does It Mean?

Roofers have their own way of measuring things, and the “per square” method is right at the top. A roofing square equals exactly 100 square feet. It’s just easier to price, order, and plan jobs this way instead of saying, “Yeah, your roof is 2,600 square feet.” Most invoices, contracts, and even material lists with your supplier will use this standard lingo.

So, let’s break down how it works in real life. Say your roof measures 2,000 square feet. Divide that by 100, and you end up with 20 squares. If a roofer quotes you $500 per square, you’d multiply it: 20 (squares) x $500 = $10,000 total (not counting extras like rotten wood repair or new gutters).

Here’s a fun fact: This measurement isn’t just for shingles. Roofers use “squares” for metal, tile, wood shakes—pretty much every material. It’s like a universal language in the industry for talking about roof size and cost.

To make the math clear, check out the table below with a few example roof sizes and how many squares they equal:

When a roofer gives you a price “per square,” it usually covers installing materials, labor, and cleanup. But always double-check what’s included on your quote. Some roofers will add charges for things like steep pitches, tall houses, or special materials. A straightforward price for roofers charge per square helps you compare apples to apples when getting bids.

Typical Price Ranges in 2025

Talking money? Here’s what most homeowners are seeing as they call around for quotes this year. The price for a new roof is almost always given “per square”—remember, that’s 100 square feet. But what you pay depends heavily on your roof size, style, where you live, and the material you pick.

For 2025, here’s what the numbers look like for the most common materials:

If you’re in a big city, expect to be on the higher end—or even above. In smaller towns, you might find someone who’ll roof for less, but always double-check what’s included so you’re not comparing apples to oranges.

Quick tip: Most quotes for roofers charge per square are “all-in” prices, meaning tear-off, new materials, labor, and basic disposal are wrapped into one number. Sometimes, stuff like steep roofs, rotten wood, or new skylights will cost extra. Ask every contractor for a breakdown so you know what you’re paying for.

• If a price seems way low or high, get at least one more quote.
• Bad weather, steep angles, and specialty materials add to the price fast.
• If you want a warranty, that sometimes costs extra, but is usually worth it.

Real data from a 2024 national home improvement survey showed that the average total roof replacement clocked in around $12,000, but ranges went from $7,000 up to $25,000, mostly because of size and material choices.

What Changes the Price Per Square?

It’d be easy if there was one price and everyone stuck to it, but the world of roofing doesn’t work like that. The price a roofer charges per square depends on a handful of factors, and most of these aren’t obvious unless you’ve replaced a roof before.

• Material type: The biggest price swinger is what you’re putting on your roof. Asphalt shingles are usually the cheapest, while metal, clay tile, slate, or wood shake can double or even triple that cost. For example, in 2025, basic asphalt shingles run from $350 to $650 per square, but metal might jump to $700 to $1,100 per square in some regions.
• Roof pitch and complexity: Flat, simple roofs are faster (and safer) to work on, so they cost less. If your roof has a steep slope, multiple angles, or tricky valleys, it’ll cost more per square because it takes longer and has higher risk for the crew.
• Old roof removal: Some roofs have layers stacked on like pancakes from remodels past. More shingles to tear off means increased labor and disposal costs.
• Location: Where you live affects material costs, labor rates, and even permit fees. Roofs in San Francisco or New York tend to cost quite a bit more than a roof in rural Oklahoma. Transportation and local code requirements can add dollars per square, too.
• Roof access: A two-story house with beds of flowers or fences makes it tough for workers to move materials. Difficult access means more time and sometimes extra equipment, like a lift or scaffolding, which can pump up your bill.
• Warranty and quality: Are you getting a quick, basic install, or do you want top-notch underlayments, heavy-duty ice shields, and an extended labor warranty? Better products and workmanship raise the price per square, but they can also mean fewer headaches down the line.

One last thing: a roofer’s experience matters. A pro who’s licensed, insured, and comes well-reviewed might charge a little more, but skipping on experience could end up costing you way more in repairs later. Don’t just chase the lowest number—make sure you’re getting what you pay for from roofers charge per square quotes.

Smart Tips to Get a Fair Deal

Nobody wants to overpay for a new roof—or wind up with shoddy work. Getting a fair price from a roofer isn’t just about picking the lowest bid. Here’s how to stay sharp and keep your money working for you.

First thing: always get at least three written quotes. Pros know that prices (and what’s included) can swing wildly from one company to another. Ask for details. What materials are they using? Is cleanup included? Will they replace bad wood if they find it?

• Check online reviews and ratings. Google and Yelp can show obvious red flags.
• Make sure the roofer is licensed and insured. Ask to see proof—don’t just take their word.
• Never pay the full price upfront. A common deposit is around 10-30%, with the rest due after the job is done right.
• Insist on a written contract before any work starts. This should spell out the "per square" price, materials, timeline, and warranty info.

Watch out for upsells or surprise charges—like extra fees for dumpster rental or replacing unexpected plywood. Ask, in plain language, "Is there anything that can add to my total bill after we start?" Companies that hesitate with honest answers are worth steering clear of.

"A reputable roofer will break down every cost and answer questions in simple terms. If anyone tries to rush you or dodges details, walk away." — Sam Richards, Roofers Guild of America president

For reference, here’s a basic snapshot of price ranges for roofers charge per square in the U.S. as of summer 2025:

Bonus tip: Check if your homeowner’s insurance or local programs can help with some of the cost, especially if the roof needs replacing because of storm damage. And remember—sometimes, the middle price from a trustworthy local company ends up as the real bargain.