Metal Roof costs $9.19 to $22.47 per sq ft in Arlington in 2026. For a 400 sq ft project, expect $3,676 – $8,987 installed, typically near $6,331. That is about 7% above the Virginia average.
Arlington metal roof calculator
Planning estimate. Wage index applies to the labor share only; materials held at national prices. Get three written quotes.
Why Arlington runs above the Virginia average
Construction wages in Arlington average $32.76 per hour against $28.67 statewide, so labor-heavy work prices above the Virginia norm here.
Labor is about 50% of the installed cost on this type of work, and it is the part that actually moves between markets. Materials are priced by national manufacturers and barely shift, which is why the gap between metros is narrower than wage differences alone suggest.
Metal Roof cost by project size in Arlington
| Project size | Arlington range | Typical |
|---|---|---|
| 100 sq ft | $919 – $2,247 | $1,583 |
| 200 sq ft | $1,838 – $4,493 | $3,166 |
| 300 sq ft | $2,757 – $6,740 | $4,749 |
| 400 sq ft | $3,676 – $8,987 | $6,331 |
| 600 sq ft | $5,515 – $13,480 | $9,497 |
| 800 sq ft | $7,353 – $17,973 | $12,663 |
| 1,000 sq ft | $9,191 – $22,467 | $15,829 |
| 1,500 sq ft | $13,786 – $33,700 | $23,743 |
Where the money goes
For a 400 sq ft project in Arlington at roughly $6,331, a typical bill splits like this:
| Line item | Share | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Labor | 50% | $3,166 |
| Materials | 36% | $2,279 |
| Site prep & equipment | 8% | $507 |
| Overhead, disposal & finishing | 6% | $380 |
Arlington compared with other Virginia markets
| Area | Cost per sq ft | vs Arlington |
|---|---|---|
| Virginia Beach | $8.49 – $20.75 | −8% |
| Richmond | $8.46 – $20.68 | −8% |
| Roanoke | $8.12 – $19.84 | −12% |
| Charlottesville | $8.55 – $20.89 | −7% |
| Lynchburg | $8.11 – $19.83 | −12% |
| Virginia average | $8.60 – $21.03 | −6% |
Ground conditions and code in Arlington
Permits in Arlington
A residential permit for this work typically runs around $450 in Virginia. Permit cost is rarely included in a contractor quote, so budget it separately and confirm scope with the Arlington building department before work begins.
Hiring in Arlington
Get three written, itemised quotes from licensed and insured contractors, each specifying the same scope and grade of material. Ask for local references and check the licence is current in Virginia.
Frequently asked questions
How much does metal roof cost in Arlington?
In 2026, metal roof costs $9.19 to $22.47 per sq ft in Arlington. For a 400 sq ft project, the installed total typically lands between $3,676 and $8,987.
Is Arlington more expensive than the rest of Virginia?
Yes. Arlington runs about 7% above the Virginia average, because local construction wages ($32.76/hr) sit above the statewide figure of $28.67/hr.
Do I need a permit in Arlington?
Most work of this type and value requires a permit. Budget around $450 in Virginia and allow extra time for review in metro jurisdictions.
How do I compare quotes in Arlington?
Get three written, itemised quotes covering identical scope and materials. A bid far below the others usually signals a reduced specification rather than better value.
Nearby markets
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