Roofing remains a vital skilled trade in Virginia Beach, VA — driven by residential building, repair and maintenance demand in the coastal region. Whether you’re considering becoming a roofer or are simply curious about earnings potential, this guide breaks down roofer salary figures for 2026, experience‑based pay, key factors affecting income, job outlook, benefits, and earnings comparisons with nearby cities — providing a comprehensive look at the trade’s financial picture.
📊 Average Roofer Salary in Virginia Beach, VA (2026)
In 2026, the local pay for roofers in Virginia Beach reflects contributions from both national and regional data sources.
💰 Typical Salary Ranges
| Salary Type | Amount (2026) |
|---|---|
| Annual Average | ~$39,075 per year |
| Hourly Average | ~$19/hour |
| 25th Percentile | ~$35,273/year (~$17/hr) |
| 75th Percentile | ~$43,765/year (~$21/hr) |
| Entry‑Level (Indeed estimates) | ~$18.32/hr |
| Low (Indeed data) | ~$14.31/hr |
| High (Indeed data) | ~$23.46/hr |
The average roofer in Virginia Beach earns about $39,000 per year (or around $19 per hour), though data from local job postings shows some variation with hourly rates ranging from about $14 to $23.46 depending on employer and role specifics in the local market.
🧰 Roofer Salary by Experience Level
Experience significantly shapes earnings in roofing. As roofers gain skills and on‑the‑job expertise, they command better pay.
📈 Pay Progression by Experience
| Experience Level | Typical Pay |
|---|---|
| Entry‑Level (0–2 yrs) | ~$30,000 – $35,000/year (or ~$14–$18/hr) |
| Mid‑Level (2–5 yrs) | ~$35,000 – $42,000/year (~$17–$20/hr) |
| Experienced (5–10 yrs) | ~$42,000 – $48,000/year (~$20–$23/hr) |
| Senior / Lead Roofer | ~$48,000+ (higher with contractor or foreman roles) |
Local job listings often show roofer roles between $18 and $25 per hour, which aligns with higher pay at mid‑ to senior levels in the Virginia Beach area.
📌 Factors That Influence Roofer Salaries
Several factors play a role in how much roofers earn in Virginia Beach:
🧠 1. Skill Level & Certifications
Roofers with specialized skills — such as flat roofing, metal roofing, or complex installations — tend to earn more. Certifications in safety and specialized roofing systems can boost income.
🏗️ 2. Type of Roofing Work
Residential roofing tends to start at average regional pay.
Commercial roofing and high‑complexity jobs can offer higher rates, especially in broader Virginia markets.
🧍 3. Experience and Reputation
Roofers with strong client referrals, repeat customers, and proven reliability often earn premium day rates or negotiate higher wages.
📍 4. Employment Type
Employed roofers receive a steady wage and sometimes benefits.
Self‑employed or contractors can earn more per project but face variable workload and income levels.
📆 5. Seasonal Demand
Roofing work is often seasonal, with heavier demand in spring and summer, which can increase overtime and short‑term rates.
📊 Job Market Trends — Virginia Beach & Beyond
Roofing in the Virginia Beach area remains stable, driven by:
🏡 Residential Renovation & New Builds
With ongoing housing development and repair needs revolving around seasonal weather conditions, roofers continue to have consistent work.
🧱 Regional Construction Demand
Across Virginia, roofers are in steady demand, with median wages generally around the $20 per hour mark and a reasonable number of jobs forecast through 2026.
🏙️ Potential Growth Areas
Commercial roofing projects and large renovations often pay more and require experienced crews or roofing foremen.
In fact, Roofing Foremen in Virginia Beach average well above standard roofer wages (~$65,000/year) reflecting the added management responsibility.
📊 Roofer Salary Comparisons — Virginia Beach vs Nearby Cities
Comparing salaries regionally provides context on local pay competitiveness.
| Location | Avg Annual Roofer Pay | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Virginia Beach, VA | ~$39,075/year (~$19/hr) | Typical local average. |
| Virginia (statewide) | ~$41,289/year (~$20/hr) | Slightly higher average across VA markets. |
| Roanoke, VA | ~$37,673/year (~$18/hr) | Lower than Virginia Beach. |
| Lynchburg, VA | ~$37,074/year (~$18/hr) | Also slightly lower. |
Overall, Virginia Beach sits near the state average for roofer earnings — competitive for coastal and metro regions.
🎓 Certifications, Training & Career Advancement
While roofing is largely a hands‑on trade, gaining formal training and certifications can help you stand out and earn more.
📌 Valuable Credentials
OSHA Safety Training (construction safety standards)
Manufacturer certifications (e.g., specific roofing systems)
Apprenticeships or crew leadership training
📌 Education & Training Impact
Roofers with safety and specialized installation training are preferred for complicated projects, potentially earning higher hourly rates or advancing into supervisory roles.
✅ Benefits of a Roofing Career
Working as a roofer offers some unique advantages:
✔ Strong Work Demand
Roofing is an essential construction trade — repairs, installations, and maintenance happen year‑round.
✔ Early Entry
Entry into roofing doesn’t typically require a college degree — skills are learned on the job or via apprenticeships.
✔ Advancement Potential
Skilled roofers can move into supervisory or foreman positions, which often come with better wages and responsibilities.
✔ Variety of Work
Roofers work on residential, commercial, and specialty projects — providing diverse work experience.
📈 Job Outlook for Roofers in Virginia Beach — 2026
The roofing industry in Virginia Beach and across Virginia is expected to stay steady to growing through 2026:
Ongoing construction and renovations support consistent demand.
Skilled roofers continue to be essential in new build and maintenance roles.
Job data suggests median roofing wages in the broader Virginia region are approximately $48,920 annually at the midpoint, supporting a positive outlook for experienced roofers.
Roofers who invest in training and safety skills will be especially well‑positioned for steady work and higher earnings.
Conclusion
In 2026, roofers in Virginia Beach, VA can expect competitive earnings that reflect the local construction market and broader state trends. With an average salary around $39,000 per year (about $19/hr) and substantial opportunities to climb higher with experience, certifications, and specialization, roofing remains a reliable and rewarding trade. Whether you choose employment with established companies or pursue independent contracting, understanding the factors that influence roofer salaries will help you maximize your earning potential and career growth in this essential construction field.