How much does a roof replacement (asphalt) cost in Boston, MA?

The average roof replacement (asphalt) in Boston, MA costs $15,768 in 2026. Costs range from $7,884 for a basic project to $31,536 for a high-end renovation. Boston is 58% more expensive than the national average of $10,000.

What is the labor rate for contractors in Boston?

The average contractor labor rate in Boston, MA is $53.91/hour, compared to the national average of $30/hour. For a roof replacement (asphalt), labor typically accounts for 40% of the total cost, which is approximately $6,307 in Boston.

Are materials more expensive in Boston?

Boston has a material cost index of 143 (national average = 100). Materials cost about 43% more than the national average. For a roof replacement (asphalt), materials account for 60% of the cost, approximately $9,461.

Do I need a permit for a roof replacement (asphalt) in Boston?

Yes, a roof replacement (asphalt) typically requires building permits in Boston, MA. The average permit cost in Boston is $3,166. Always confirm requirements with the Boston building department before starting work.

Is a roof replacement (asphalt) a good investment in Boston?

A roof replacement (asphalt) provides an estimated 65% ROI nationally. In Boston, where the median home price is $512,971, this project costs about 3.1% of your home value. This is a small percentage of home value, making it a relatively low-risk improvement.

Roof Replacement (Asphalt) in Boston, MA — Costs $7,884 to $31,536

What does roof replacement (asphalt) cost in Boston? Average $15,768, ranging $7,884–$31,536. Labor runs $53.91/hr locally — 58% above the national average. Free breakdown with material + labor split.

Boston, MA Market

+58% vs national

Labor Rate

$53.91/hr

Material Index

143

Avg Permit Cost

$3,166

Median Home Price

$512,971

As one of the largest metros in Massachusetts, Boston has a competitive contractor market with hundreds of licensed professionals. This typically gives homeowners more leverage on pricing, though high demand for renovations can offset that advantage. At 58% above the national average, Boston is one of the more expensive markets for home improvement — driven primarily by above-average labor rates in the region. With a median home price of $512,971, this roof replacement (asphalt) represents just 3.1% of typical home value — a relatively small investment that can significantly boost curb appeal or functionality.

Low Estimate

$7,884

National: $5,000

Mid-Range

$15,768

National: $10,000

High End

$31,536

National: $20,000

Per Sq Ft

National: $6

Duration: 2-4 days

DIY: Hard

Permits: Required

ROI: 65%

Roof Replacement (Asphalt) Cost Calculator for Boston

Adjusted for Boston's labor rate ($53.91/hr) and material costs (index 143).

Project Size: 200 sq ft

50 sq ft1,000 sq ft

Quality Level

Mid-grade materials, good quality fixtures, standard options.

Estimated Total in Boston

$15,768

Based on 200 sq ft at mid quality, adjusted for Boston market rates.

Local Cost Breakdown

Labor (40%)$6,307

At Boston's average rate of $53.91/hr (80% above national avg)

Materials (60%)$9,461

Material cost index 143 (43% above national baseline of 100)

Roof Replacement (Asphalt) vs. Home Value in Boston

Metric	Boston	National Avg
Roof Replacement (Asphalt) (Mid-Range)	$15,768	$10,000
Median Home Price	$512,971	$350,000
Project as % of Home Value	3.1%	2.9%
Estimated ROI	65%	65%
Median Household Income	$92,000	$75,000

What Affects the Price in Boston

1Local labor rates ($53.91/hr in Boston)
2Material cost index (143 vs national 100)
3Roof size
4Layers
5Slope
6Ventilation

Popular Upgrades

Architectural shingles
Ridge vent
Ice/water shield

Other Projects in Boston, MA

Swimming Pool Construction

$81,593

Professional OnlyROI 43%

Dormer Addition

$57,115

HardROI 65%

Porch Addition

$40,338

HardROI 65%

Tile Roof Installation

$38,961

HardROI 85%

Second Story Addition

$322,700

HardROI 60%

Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Construction

$242,025

HardROI 80%

Room Addition

$145,215

HardROI 55%

Home Addition

$127,612

MediumROI 60%

Roof Replacement (Asphalt) in Other Massachusetts Cities

Worcester, MA

$13,945

-12%Pop. 206,518

Springfield, MA

$13,329

-15%Pop. 155,929

Cambridge, MA

$15,881

+1%Pop. 118,403

Lowell, MA

$13,497

-14%Pop. 115,554

Brockton, MA

$13,281

-16%Pop. 105,643

Quincy, MA

$14,789

-6%Pop. 101,636

New Bedford, MA

$13,919

-12%Pop. 101,079

Lynn, MA

$13,043

-17%Pop. 99,989

Planning a Roof Replacement (Asphalt) in Boston

Building permits are typically required for a roof replacement (asphalt) in Boston. The average permit fee in this area is $3,166, though costs vary based on project scope. Permit fees in this market are above average — factor them into your total budget. Plan for 2-4 days from start to finish.

A roof replacement (asphalt) is a complex project best left to licensed professionals. In Boston, skilled contractors charge an average of $53.91/hr, and the specialized nature of this work means cutting corners on labor can lead to costly rework.

With a median household income of $92,000, many Boston residents can budget for this project through savings. The mid-range cost of $15,768 represents 17% of the typical household's annual income.

Roof Replacement (Asphalt) — National Guide

See the full national cost guide with DIY tips, cost factors, and ROI analysis.

All Construction Costs in Boston

View labor rates, material costs, and project estimates for Boston, MA.

Explore All Project Cost Guides

Compare costs across 120+ home improvement projects in 3,636 cities nationwide.

View All Project Costs