How Much Does a Metal Roof Cost? (2026)
Updated
A metal roof costs about $8 to $14 per square foot installed, or roughly $800 to $1,400 per roofing square (100 sq ft). For an average home that's $12,000 to $30,000 — two to three times the cost of asphalt shingles — but it lasts 40 to 70 years.
Metal roofing has gone mainstream, prized for its 40-to-70-year lifespan, energy efficiency, and resistance to fire and storms. But it carries a higher up-front price than asphalt, so it's worth understanding exactly what you're paying for.
This guide breaks down metal roof costs in 2026 by panel type and home size, compares them to shingles over the long run, and helps you decide if the investment pays off.
Key takeaways
- Metal roofing costs about $8–$14 per square foot installed.
- An average home runs $12,000–$30,000 depending on metal type.
- Standing-seam costs more than corrugated or metal shingles.
- Lifespan is 40–70 years vs 15–30 for asphalt.
- Higher up-front cost, but often cheaper over the roof's life.
Skip the math
Get instant numbers with the Roofing Calculator.
Metal roof cost by type
| Metal type | Cost per ft² (installed) | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|
| Corrugated steel | $6 – $10 | 40–60 yrs |
| Metal shingles | $8 – $13 | 40–60 yrs |
| Standing seam | $10 – $16 | 50–70 yrs |
| Aluminum | $10 – $16 | 50+ yrs |
Cost by home size
Like all roofing, metal is priced per square (100 sq ft). The table assumes a mid-range standing-seam or metal-shingle system.
| Roof size | Squares | Installed cost |
|---|---|---|
| 1,500 ft² | ~18 sq | $14,000 – $25,000 |
| 2,000 ft² | ~24 sq | $19,000 – $34,000 |
| 2,500 ft² | ~30 sq | $24,000 – $42,000 |
Metal vs asphalt shingles
Asphalt costs far less up front ($400–$700 per square) but lasts 15–30 years. Metal costs 2–3x more but can outlive two or three shingle roofs, often making it cheaper per year of service — plus energy and insurance savings.
Is a metal roof worth it?
- Yes if you'll stay in the home long-term (the lifespan pays off).
- Yes in fire-prone, snowy, or storm-prone regions.
- Yes if you want lower cooling bills (metal reflects heat).
- Maybe not if you're on a tight budget or moving soon.
Estimate your roof size first
Before getting quotes, estimate your roof in squares with our roofing calculator — enter your footprint and pitch and it returns the area, squares, and a cost range you can compare against bids.