Metal Roof costs $8.73 to $21.35 per sq ft in Lawrence in 2026. For a 400 sq ft project, expect $3,494 – $8,541 installed, typically near $6,017. That is essentially in line with the Kansas average.
Lawrence metal roof calculator
Planning estimate. Wage index applies to the labor share only; materials held at national prices. Get three written quotes.
How Lawrence compares with the rest of Kansas
Construction wages in Lawrence average $29.57 per hour against $28.89 statewide, so pricing tracks the Kansas norm closely.
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 Lawrence
| Project size | Lawrence range | Typical |
|---|---|---|
| 100 sq ft | $873 – $2,135 | $1,504 |
| 200 sq ft | $1,747 – $4,270 | $3,009 |
| 300 sq ft | $2,620 – $6,405 | $4,513 |
| 400 sq ft | $3,494 – $8,541 | $6,017 |
| 600 sq ft | $5,241 – $12,811 | $9,026 |
| 800 sq ft | $6,988 – $17,081 | $12,035 |
| 1,000 sq ft | $8,735 – $21,352 | $15,043 |
| 1,500 sq ft | $13,102 – $32,027 | $22,565 |
Where the money goes
For a 400 sq ft project in Lawrence at roughly $6,017, a typical bill splits like this:
| Line item | Share | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Labor | 50% | $3,009 |
| Materials | 36% | $2,166 |
| Site prep & equipment | 8% | $481 |
| Overhead, disposal & finishing | 6% | $361 |
Lawrence compared with other Kansas markets
| Area | Cost per sq ft | vs Lawrence |
|---|---|---|
| Wichita | $8.47 – $20.69 | −3% |
| Topeka | $8.57 – $20.96 | −2% |
| Manhattan | $8.59 – $21.00 | −2% |
| Kansas average | $8.64 – $21.11 | −1% |
Ground conditions and code in Lawrence
Permits in Lawrence
A residential permit for this work typically runs around $300 in Kansas. Permit cost is rarely included in a contractor quote, so budget it separately and confirm scope with the Lawrence building department before work begins.
Hiring in Lawrence
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 Kansas.
Frequently asked questions
How much does metal roof cost in Lawrence?
In 2026, metal roof costs $8.73 to $21.35 per sq ft in Lawrence. For a 400 sq ft project, the installed total typically lands between $3,494 and $8,541.
Is Lawrence more expensive than the rest of Kansas?
Not meaningfully. Lawrence prices track the Kansas average closely.
Do I need a permit in Lawrence?
Most work of this type and value requires a permit. Budget around $300 in Kansas and allow extra time for review in metro jurisdictions.
How do I compare quotes in Lawrence?
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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