The average cost to replace a roof in Seattle is often higher than online estimators suggest.
Local labor rates in Seattle currently sit at 1.402x the national average.
Furthermore, the Seattle climate requires specific attention to underlayment codes.
Avoid relying on generic online calculators, which frequently miss the ‘hidden fees’ like disposal and code compliance.
Below is the 2025 breakdown for a standard 2,200 sq. ft. home in your zip code.
Table of Contents
Seattle is a high-cost market. Crews are booked out, pushing rates higher than the national baseline.
1. The ‘Hidden Fees’ Breakdown
The following table breaks down the specific costs for a 2,200 sq. ft. architectural shingle roof in Seattle, WA, including labor, materials, and permitting fees. This equates to roughly $687 per square installed.
| Seattle Roofing Cost Elements | Cost (2,200 sq. ft.) |
|---|---|
| Materials Total | $5,489 |
| ⌞ Shingles, Underlayment, Nails | $4,719 |
| ⌞ Drip Edge & Flashing | $770 |
| Local Labor (Seattle) | $8,821 |
| Dump Fees | $575 |
| Permits | $239 |
| TOTAL ESTIMATE | $15,124 |
️ Local Permitting & Codes for Seattle
- Department: Dept of Construction (SDCI)
- Address: 700 5th Ave, Suite 2000, Seattle, WA 98104
- Phone: (206) 684-8600
[Image of roof layers diagram]
2. Material Comparison
| Material | Gross | Net (After ROI) |
|---|---|---|
| 3-Tab Asphalt | $13,100 | $5,240 |
| Architectural | $15,124 | $5,294 |
| Metal (Standing Seam) TAX CREDIT |
$30,206 | $4,531 |
| Clay/Concrete Tile | $36,278 | $9,070 |
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.
Seattle Hiring Checklist
Before signing a contract in WA, 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 Seattle 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 Washington State Dept of Labor & Industries.
- Scope of Work: A detailed itemized list including cleanup and disposal fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
In 2025, the average cost for an architectural shingle roof in Seattle ranges between $12,855 and $17,392 depending on accessibility and slope.
Yes, most roofing projects in WA require a permit. Based on current labor values, you should budget approximately $239 for permit fees in Seattle.
Most residential jobs in the Seattle area take 2-3 days. Weather conditions can affect this timeline.
Typically yes, if the damage is caused by a sudden peril like storm debris. However, policies usually do not cover normal wear and tear due to age. Check our Insurance Guide for details.
Affordability & Options
Check your eligibility for insurance coverage or monthly installment options.
When to book in Seattle: Roofing crews are busiest from August to October. Booking a Spring installation often secures faster turnaround times.
Not sure how to pay? Compare HELOCs vs. Contractor options in our Roofing Financing Guide.
Smart homeowners compare multiple bids.
Given that Seattle labor rates are volatile, we recommend comparing at least 3 licensed pros.
Methodology: Our 2025 cost analysis for Seattle is based on a standard 2,200 sq. ft. roof geometry (4/12 pitch). Prices include local waste disposal fees, WA permit averages, and labor rates adjusted for the Seattle 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 WA and material costs from major suppliers (ABC Supply, Beacon). Learn more about our methodology.