Summary
Comprehensive 2026 salary benchmarking for roofers in San Antonio, TX, highlighting median wages, experience levels, national comparisons, and market trends amid labor shortages.
Salary Overview
Compared to National Average: Approximately 26% below the BLS national roofer median of $50,970.
Comparable Metro Area Salary Analysis
Below Dallas ($46,820, BLS DFW metro), Houston ($51,289 Glassdoor), and Austin ($48,040, BLS metro); at the low end for major Texas metros due to lower cost of living and less unionization.
Factors Influencing Local Salary
- Labor shortage
- Severe weather demands (hail, storms)
- Commercial vs residential specialization
- Lower cost of living
- Limited union presence in local roofing
Salary by Career Stage
Apprentice: $27K-$33K
Journeyman: $33K-$42K
Experienced/Foreman: $42K-$55K
Top earners (commercial/foreman): up to $60K+
Job Outlook and Market Trends
Employment projected to grow 6% nationally through 2034, faster than average; San Antonio sees high demand from frequent storms, construction growth, and labor shortages. In-demand: durable, energy-efficient roofing skills.
Guidance for Professionals and Employers
Field service owners: Raise billable rates 10-20% amid labor shortages to sustain 30%+ margins; budget for premium materials.
Job seekers: Specialize in storm-resistant installs, pursue union apprenticeships for advancement. Target booming suburbs for top pay.
Cost of Living Context
San Antonio COL index 88 (12% below U.S. average); the $37,471 citywide roofer salary equates to roughly $42K in national purchasing power, driven by lower housing costs vs. high-COL metros like LA or NYC.
Popular Benefits Offered
- Signing bonuses
- Union health/pension plans
- Paid training/certifications
- Company take-home vehicles
- Overtime incentives
