Metal Roof costs $8.43 to $20.60 per sq ft in Houston in 2026. For a 400 sq ft project, expect $3,371 – $8,241 installed, typically near $5,806. That is about 2% above the Texas average.
Houston metal roof calculator
Planning estimate. Wage index applies to the labor share only; materials held at national prices. Get three written quotes.
Why Houston runs above the Texas average
Construction wages in Houston average $27.41 per hour against $26.54 statewide, so labor-heavy work prices above the Texas 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 Houston
| Project size | Houston range | Typical |
|---|---|---|
| 100 sq ft | $843 – $2,060 | $1,451 |
| 200 sq ft | $1,686 – $4,120 | $2,903 |
| 300 sq ft | $2,528 – $6,181 | $4,354 |
| 400 sq ft | $3,371 – $8,241 | $5,806 |
| 600 sq ft | $5,057 – $12,361 | $8,709 |
| 800 sq ft | $6,742 – $16,481 | $11,612 |
| 1,000 sq ft | $8,428 – $20,602 | $14,515 |
| 1,500 sq ft | $12,642 – $30,903 | $21,772 |
Where the money goes
For a 400 sq ft project in Houston at roughly $5,806, a typical bill splits like this:
| Line item | Share | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Labor | 50% | $2,903 |
| Materials | 36% | $2,090 |
| Site prep & equipment | 8% | $464 |
| Overhead, disposal & finishing | 6% | $348 |
Houston compared with other Texas markets
| Area | Cost per sq ft | vs Houston |
|---|---|---|
| Dallas | $8.37 – $20.46 | −1% |
| Austin | $8.44 – $20.64 | 0% |
| San Antonio | $8.22 – $20.08 | −3% |
| Midland | $8.52 – $20.83 | +1% |
| Texas average | $8.30 – $20.29 | −1% |
Ground conditions and code in Houston
Permits in Houston
A residential permit for this work typically runs around $450 in Texas. Permit cost is rarely included in a contractor quote, so budget it separately and confirm scope with the Houston building department before work begins.
Hiring in Houston
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 Texas.
Frequently asked questions
How much does metal roof cost in Houston?
In 2026, metal roof costs $8.43 to $20.60 per sq ft in Houston. For a 400 sq ft project, the installed total typically lands between $3,371 and $8,241.
Is Houston more expensive than the rest of Texas?
Yes. Houston runs about 2% above the Texas average, because local construction wages ($27.41/hr) sit above the statewide figure of $26.54/hr.
Do I need a permit in Houston?
Most work of this type and value requires a permit. Budget around $450 in Texas and allow extra time for review in metro jurisdictions.
How do I compare quotes in Houston?
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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