True Cost Guide Roofing Replace a Roof in California

How Much Does a New Roof Cost in California?

Typical Range:

$8,000 - $15,000

Cost data is based on research by HomeAdvisor.

Published November 10, 2022

Written by HomeAdvisor.

The cost of a new roof in California typically ranges between $8,000 and $22,000, with the average California homeowner spending $15,000 on a new 2,000-square-foot roof. The size of the roof, the material of the roof, and your location can all impact your overall roof replacement cost in California. For example, a small roof with asphalt shingles in Fresno, California, may cost as little as $4,850 while a large slate roof in Los Angeles can cost more than $40,000.

2022 Notice: Material Prices are Surging

Demand for roofing has grown over the past year. And, as a result, manufacturers are increasing materials prices. Prices have gone up 5% to 10% this year, and many parts of the country are experiencing long delivery times. If you're planning a roofing project, we recommend starting as early as possible in the season, preparing for potential price fluctuations, and allowing extra time to order materials.

Average Cost to Replace a Roof in California

Average Cost	High Cost	Low Cost
$15,000	$22,000	$8,000

Cost of Roof Replacement per Square Foot in California

The average cost of a new roof in California ranges between $4 and $11 per square foot, fully installed. This includes materials and labor. Roofing materials are often sold in squares (100 square feet), making the average roof cost $400 to $1,100 per square, installed.

However, California is a large state, and new roof prices are much higher in the southern half—so take square footage estimates with a grain of salt.

This table breaks down the typical roof replacement cost in California by roof size:

Roof Size (Square Feet)	Number of Roofing Squares	Typical Cost Range
1,000	10	$4,000 – $11,000
1,500	15	$6,000 – $16,500
2,000	20	$8,000 – $22,000
2,500	25	$10,000 – $27,500
3,000	30	$12,000 – $33,000

California Roofing Costs by Material Type

The type of roofing material you choose will impact your overall cost. Keep in mind that not all roofing materials make sense for California’s climate.

The most common roofs in California include:

Asphalt shingle roofs
Metal roofs
Clay tile roofs
Concrete tile roofs
Slate roofs

Here’s a breakdown of new roof costs in California by these common materials:

Roofing Material	Typical Cost Range (for 2,000-Square-Foot Roof)
Asphalt shingles cost	$5,875 – $24,400
Metal roof cost	$5,000 – $37,600
Clay tile roof cost	$28,000 – $38,000
Concrete tile roof cost	$26,000 – $36,000
Slate roof cost	$20,000 – $40,000

Note: Wood shingle roofs are growing in popularity, but in parts of California more prone to wildfires, they aren’t a wise choice. Wood shingle roofs cost between $12,000 and $16,700 for a 2,000-square-foot roof.

Consult a Contractor for a Roof Replacement

Roof Replacement Cost Factors in California

The size and material of the roof are two of the biggest factors in calculating the average cost of a new roof in California, but local roofing companies may adjust their prices based on other factors, including your roof’s pitch and shape.

Roof Pitch

In general, the steeper the slope (or pitch) of your roof, the more difficult it is to install new materials. Roofers must be more careful with their safety, which can stretch the project time and thus increase labor costs.

Conventionally sloped roofs are the most common in California, though you can sometimes find flat roofs in the southern part of the state where snow is less likely. Steep-sloped roofs are less common. Because flat roofs are easier and safer to work with, flat roof installation costs tend to cost less. Get quotes from multiple flat roof installers in your area before moving forward.

Roof Shape

The shape of the roof can also influence labor and material costs. Difficult-to-navigate roofs may increase labor costs while unique shapes may lead to more waste when ordering roofing materials.

Gable roofs, hipped roofs, and Dutch roofs are among the most common roof styles in California, though some homes in Southern California may have flat roofs. Modern homes may have shed roofs while older homes commonly have mansard roofs. Up north, some Californian homes may even have A-frame rooms.

Labor

Labor generally accounts for $1.50 to $3 per square foot for installation. Prices may be higher if the old roof is difficult to remove, if the roof's pitch is steep, or if you’re hiring a roofer during busy months—or during the winter.

Inspection

You’ll pay up to $1,100 for a roof inspection in California. If you’re unsure if your current roof is salvageable, it’s worth hiring a local roof inspector. They’ll be able to check out the condition of your roof and advise if it makes sense to repair your roof instead, which could save you considerable money.

Asbestos Removal

If your old roof has asbestos, the roofing company may quote you a higher cost for removal. In fact, roof asbestos removal costs $150 per square foot, on average, given the dangers involved.

California Roof Replacement Costs by City

Because California is a large state with varying climates and costs of living, the cost of a new roof in California can vary significantly. Generally, southern, coastal areas have higher roof replacement costs in California than northern, inland areas.

Fresno, California

Fresno is the most affordable major city in California to replace your roof. You’ll typically pay between $6,075 and $9,950, but the average cost of a new roof in Fresno, California, is $7,750.

Los Angeles, California

Los Angeles is the most expensive city in California to install a new roof. Homeowners typically pay between $9,500 and $23,600 for a new roof, though costs can go beyond $40,000 for a large slate roof. The average cost of a new roof in LA is $16,500.

Sacramento, California

The average cost of a roof replacement in Sacramento is $11,500, but costs may range between $7,625 and $16,025. You may spend less on a small flat roof but significantly more on a large metal roof. Get quotes from flat and metal roof installers near you for more accurate estimates.

San Diego, California

San Diego has a wide range of new roof prices. Some homeowners report spending as little as $6,400 on a new roof, while others have spent $15,975. The average cost of a new roof in San Diego is $11,025.

San Francisco, California

The cost to install a new roof in San Francisco ranges between $8,750 and $18,675. On average, homeowners pay $13,625 for a new roof in the Bay Area.

San Jose, California

Residents of San Jose can expect to spend between $10,475 and $22,075 on a new roof, making San Jose one of the more expensive cities in California to have your roof replaced. On average, homeowners spend $16,075.

Hire a Roofing Pro in Your Area

Signs You Need a New Roof

Given California’s range of weather conditions, depending on where you live in the state, your roof may have to contend with extreme heat, lots of rain, high winds, and even fire damage. These elements can cause a lot of problems for homeowners that may necessitate having a new roof installed (rather than repairing your current roof).

Watch out for these signs that you need a new roof in California:

Leaks: Parts of California are known for heavy rainfall, but roofs are designed to keep water on the outside of your home. If water leaks into your home, find a local roofing repair company to check it out immediately. They may be able to offer affordable repairs, but if the problem is extensive enough, you’ll likely need a replacement roof.
Damaged shingles: Shingles can become damaged over time by excessive sun exposure or high winds. Replacing a few shingles as needed is more cost-effective than installing a new roof (asphalt roof shingles cost between $1 and $1.50 per square foot), but at a certain point, it may be time to have a new roof installed.
Drooping or sagging: If your roof is noticeably sagging, it’s likely beyond repair. Hire a roofer to install a replacement roof as soon as possible.
Old age: The lifespan of a roof depends on the material. For example, a copper roof may last 100 years, while an asphalt shingle roof may only survive 15 years. Research your roofing material’s estimated lifespan; if you’re at the tail end of it, it may be time to consider a replacement.

How Long Will a Roof Last in California?

How long a roof lasts in California depends on the type of roof and where in California your home is situated.

Type of Roof

How does the type of roof affect how long it lasts in California?

Asphalt shingles: Asphalt shingles are a popular, cost-effective roofing material in California, but they may only last 15 years.
Clay and concrete tiles: Tile roofs are also popular in California, especially in Spanish-style homes; these roofs tend to last about 50 years.
Slate and metal roofs: Slate and metal roofs can last 100 or more years. While they’re the most expensive type to install, they can be more cost-effective than other roof types in the long run.

Location

Where you live in California can also affect how long your roof lasts:

Southern California is warmer and sunnier. Extreme heat and sun exposure can lead shingles to expand (and then contract when they cool off); over time, this can lead to cracks in the shingles.
Northern California is wetter and can even get snowstorms. Precipitation can wear down roofs over time.

In both instances, regular roof maintenance can extend the lifespan of your roof. Common roof repairs cost between $400 and $1,800—much less than the cost of a new roof in California.

FAQs

What time of year is best to replace a roof in California?

Fall is the best time to replace a roof in California because of the ideal temperatures. Installing a new roof in autumn means roofers won’t work in summer's sweltering heat or the winter's lower temperatures. Spring also offers more ideal temperatures, but the chance for rain can delay work by several days, depending on where in California you live. If you have a few years before you need to replace your roof, start surveying contractors to see if they offer lower rates in a specific season.

Do you need a permit to replace a roof in California?

You need a permit to replace a roof or install a roof on a new home in every city in California. When you work with a local roofing company, the contractors will be familiar with all the required permits and can help you get the permits you need before work begins. Minor roof repair may not require a permit, but it’s always a good idea to check with your city or county before beginning work. Roofing permits cost between $255 and $500, on average.

How much does a roof inspection cost in California?

The national average cost of a roof inspection ranges between $125 and $325, but California roof inspections can go much higher. In some California cities, you’ll pay between $125 and $425 for a standard roof inspection, but in SoCal—like Los Angeles and San Diego—roof inspections cost as much as $1,100. The cost can vary depending on the type of the year and accessibility of the roof.