When it comes to maintaining your home, few things are more important than the roof over your head—literally. Whether you’re facing minor leaks, major storm damage, or planning a full roof replacement, knowing what a roofer charges per hour in New Jersey can help you budget wisely and avoid surprises.
But roofing costs aren’t one-size-fits-all. Factors like location, job complexity, materials used, and even the roofer’s credentials all influence what you’ll pay. With Charles Jimerson of CJ Commercial Roofing NJ, we’ll break down everything New Jersey homeowners need to know about hourly roofing rates—and how to make the smartest hiring decision for your needs.
Average Hourly Rate for Roofers in New Jersey
So, how much does a roofer charge per hour in New Jersey?
On average, roofers in New Jersey charge between $50 to $120 per hour, depending on the scope of work and qualifications. Here’s a breakdown:
| Roofer Type | Hourly Rate Range (USD) |
|---|---|
| Licensed General Roofer | $70 – $120 |
| Independent Roofing Contractor | $50 – $90 |
| Roofing Laborer/Helper | $30 – $50 |
These estimates reflect prevailing rates in cities like Newark, Jersey City, Paterson, Edison, and Trenton. More rural areas like Sussex County may lean toward the lower end of the spectrum, while coastal or densely populated urban zones often command higher fees due to overhead and demand.
What Influences a Roofer’s Hourly Rate?
Understanding the “why” behind these rates helps you evaluate quotes more confidently. Here are key factors influencing hourly roofing costs across New Jersey:
1. Experience & Licensing
Roofers with decades of experience and a New Jersey roofing license usually charge more. Licensing ensures the contractor complies with New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs regulations—important for legal and safety reasons.
2. Job Type & Complexity
- Simple patchwork or shingle replacements might cost $50–$70/hour.
- Structural repairs, especially on steep or multi-story roofs, can easily hit $100+/hour due to added labor and risk.
3. Material Type
High-end materials like slate, metal roofing, or synthetic composite shingles require specialized skills, which command higher labor rates. For example:
- Asphalt shingle jobs may be less expensive per hour than metal or tile installations.
- Roofers installing solar panels (a growing trend in eco-conscious parts of NJ like Princeton and Montclair) often charge premium rates.
4. Insurance & Warranties
Roofers with liability insurance, workers’ compensation, and warranty guarantees typically charge more—but these protections can save you from costly legal or repair issues later.
5. Seasonal Demand
In New Jersey, the roofing season peaks between late spring and early fall. During this time, demand soars, and so do prices. If you’re looking for cost efficiency, consider scheduling in the early spring or late fall when rates may drop slightly.
Roofing Labor vs. Total Job Cost
While knowing the hourly rate is helpful, most roofing projects are priced per job, not per hour. Still, understanding labor costs helps break down an estimate. Here’s how a typical $10,000 roofing project might allocate costs in New Jersey:
- Labor (roofers’ hourly wages): ~35-50%
- Materials (shingles, underlayment, flashing): ~40%
- Permits, equipment rental, waste disposal: ~10-15%
So, in a $10,000 job, around $3,500–$5,000 would go toward hourly labor charges, translating to 40–60 labor hours depending on crew size.
Common Roofing Jobs & Their Hourly Time Estimates
Here’s what you might expect for labor hours across typical projects in New Jersey:
| Job Type | Time Estimate (Labor Hours) | Total Labor Cost Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Small Roof Leak Repair | 2–4 hours | $150 – $480 |
| Shingle Replacement (10×10) | 5–8 hours | $350 – $960 |
| Flat Roof Membrane Repair | 4–6 hours | $280 – $720 |
| Full Roof Replacement | 30–60+ hours | $2,100 – $7,200+ |
Comparing Roofer Rates Across New Jersey
Let’s break it down further by local markets:
✅ North Jersey (e.g., Hoboken, Hackensack, Clifton)
- Labor is pricier due to proximity to NYC and higher cost of living.
- Expect average rates between $75–$120/hour.
✅ Central Jersey (e.g., Edison, New Brunswick, Trenton)
- Rates are mid-range, especially for homes in suburban communities.
- Average: $65–$100/hour.
✅ South Jersey (e.g., Cherry Hill, Vineland, Atlantic City)
- Tends to be more affordable, with less demand volatility.
- Average: $50–$85/hour.
For good costing, visit CJ Commercial Roofing NJ.
Tips for Getting the Best Value on Roofing Labor
Here are smart homeowner strategies to keep hourly costs reasonable without compromising on quality:
- Request Multiple Quotes: Aim for at least three estimates from licensed roofers in your area.
- Check Reviews & Credentials: Use platforms like HomeAdvisor, Angi, or Better Business Bureau – NJ to verify past work.
- Bundle Jobs: If your roofer is already there for a repair, ask if they can inspect or clean gutters for a discounted bundled rate.
- Negotiate Scope: Smaller jobs can often be quoted at a flat fee. But understanding the hourly baseline helps if changes are needed mid-project.
- Ask for a Detailed Estimate: Labor should be clearly itemized. Ask how many hours the job is expected to take and what rate each crew member commands.
Beware of “Too Good to Be True” Prices
If someone quotes you $30/hour for roofing in New Jersey, your spidey-sense should tingle. While you may find unlicensed handymen offering low hourly rates, the lack of insurance, warranties, and oversight can be financially risky.
Choosing a legitimate, insured roofer protects you from:
- Property damage liability
- Injuries on your property
- Substandard workmanship without recourse
It’s not just about what a roofer charges per hour—it’s about what you get per hour.
Final Thoughts: What Should You Pay?
In New Jersey, most reputable roofers will charge between $70–$100/hour, with fluctuation based on materials, job type, and season. While it’s tempting to choose the cheapest labor, cutting corners on your roof—a structure that shields your entire home—is never wise.
Instead, use hourly rate knowledge to ask the right questions, recognize red flags, and hire confidently.
Local Resources
Need help getting started? Here are trusted resources for hiring roofers in New Jersey:
- New Jersey Roofing Contractors Association (NJRCA)
- NJ Division of Consumer Affairs Contractor Lookup
- HomeAdvisor: Roofers Near Me in NJ
CTA: Ready to Hire a Roofer in New Jersey?
Whether it’s a small patch job or a full-scale installation, understanding hourly labor costs puts power in your hands. Start gathering quotes today and choose a New Jersey roofer who’s right for your home—and your budget.
💠🌐 For accurate, insured, and transparent roofing quotes in your city—contact certified local roofers now and protect what matters most.