The average cost to replace a roof in Cambridge is often higher than online estimators suggest.
Labor pricing in Cambridge currently hover at 1.363x the national average.
Furthermore, the Cambridge climate requires specific attention to flashing details.
Be wary of generic online calculators, which frequently ignore the ‘hidden fees’ like disposal and permits.
Below is the 2025 breakdown for a standard 2,200 sq. ft. home in your zip code.
Table of Contents
Cambridge is a high-cost market. Contractors are in short supply, pushing rates well above the national baseline.
️ Climate-Specific Advice for Cambridge
- Ice Dams: Cambridge winters can be harsh. Ensure your bid includes Ice & Water Shield at the eaves and valleys.
1. The ‘Hidden Fees’ Breakdown
The following table breaks down the specific costs for a 2,200 sq. ft. architectural shingle roof in Cambridge, MA, including labor, materials, and permitting fees. This equates to roughly $685 per square installed.
| Cambridge Roofing Cost Elements | Cost (2,200 sq. ft.) |
|---|---|
| Materials Total | $5,703 |
| ⌞ Shingles, Underlayment, Nails | $4,719 |
| ⌞ Ice & Water Shield (Code Req.) | $214 |
| ⌞ Drip Edge & Flashing | $770 |
| Local Labor (Cambridge) | $8,575 |
| Dump Fees | $570 |
| Permits | $239 |
| TOTAL ESTIMATE | $15,087 |
️ Local Permitting & Codes for Cambridge
- Department: Inspectional Services
- Address: 831 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02139
- Phone: (617) 349-6100
[Image of roof layers diagram]
2. Material Comparison
| Material | Gross | Net (After ROI) |
|---|---|---|
| 3-Tab Asphalt | $13,086 | $5,235 |
| Architectural | $15,087 | $5,281 |
| Metal (Standing Seam) TAX CREDIT |
$29,922 | $4,489 |
| Clay/Concrete Tile | $35,927 | $8,982 |
A new roof isn’t just an expense; it’s an investment. The “Net Cost” column in our analysis subtracts the Resale Value Increase (ROI) from the upfront price.
Example: If you spend $20k but your home value goes up by $14k, your effective “Net Cost” is only $6k.
Cambridge Hiring Checklist
Before signing a contract in MA, ensure your roofer provides:
- Proof of Insurance: Liability and Worker’s Comp are mandatory to protect you from lawsuits.
- Local References: Ask for 3 recent jobs in the Cambridge area you can drive by.
- Written Warranty: Ensure you get both a manufacturer’s warranty (materials) and a workmanship warranty (labor).
- Licensing: Verify the contractor is registered with the Massachusetts Board of Building Regulations.
- Scope of Work: A detailed itemized list including cleanup and disposal fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Currently, the average cost for an architectural shingle roof in Cambridge ranges between $12,823 and $17,350 depending on accessibility and slope.
Yes, most roofing projects in MA require a permit. Based on current labor values, you should budget approximately $239 for permit fees in Cambridge.
Most residential jobs in the Cambridge area take 1-2 days. Seasonal demand can affect this timeline.
Typically yes, if the damage is caused by a sudden peril like wind. However, policies usually do not cover normal wear and tear due to age. Check our Insurance Guide for details.
Affordability & Options
Worried about the upfront price? Many Cambridge contractors offer financing for new roofs with flexible terms.
When to book in Cambridge: Spring and Summer are peak seasons. For the best pricing, try to book in late Fall (before the freeze) when crews are looking to fill gaps.
Not sure how to pay? Compare HELOCs vs. Contractor options in our Roofing Financing Guide.
Smart homeowners compare multiple bids.
Considering Cambridge labor rates are variable, we recommend comparing at least 3 licensed pros.
Methodology: Our 2025 cost analysis for Cambridge is based on a standard 2,200 sq. ft. roof geometry (4/12 pitch). Prices include local waste disposal fees, MA permit averages, and labor rates adjusted for the Cambridge metro area. Material costs fluctuate weekly; always verify with a written contractor bid.
About the Data:
This guide was updated on December 28, 2025 by the RoofingData.us Research Team. Our costs are calculated using a proprietary algorithm that tracks real-time labor rates in MA and material costs from major suppliers (ABC Supply, Beacon). Learn more about our methodology.