Interested in becoming a roofer in Memphis, Tennessee in 2026? Whether you’re exploring roofing as a career or evaluating your current wages, understanding how much roofers earn and what shapes their pay is essential. This detailed, SEO‑friendly article breaks down average salary ranges, experience‑based earnings, key factors affecting pay, job market trends, benefits, and certifications — plus comparisons with other regions to give you real context.
📊 Average Roofer Salary in Memphis, TN (2026)
Roofers in Memphis earn varied wages depending on experience, job type, and employment status. According to updated pay surveys:
Typical Salary Range
| Pay Basis | Estimated Earnings (2026) |
|---|---|
| Average Annual Salary | ~$38,407/year |
| Hourly Wage (Median) | ~$18/hour |
| 25th Percentile | ~$34,670/year |
| 75th Percentile | ~$43,016/year |
| Top Earners (90th) | ~$47,213/year |
This range reflects the core residential/commercial roofer role reported in local compensation data.
📈 Roofer Salary by Experience Level
Experience significantly impacts earnings in the roofing trade. Below is a general breakdown of what roofers in Memphis might expect based on experience:
| Experience Level | Typical Earnings | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Entry‑Level (0–2 yrs) | ~$30,000–$35,000 | Learning skills, assisting crews |
| Early Career (2–5 yrs) | ~$35,000–$40,000 | Increased independence |
| Experienced (5–10 yrs) | ~$40,000–$47,000 | Skilled installer, efficient worker |
| Senior (10+ yrs) | ~$47,000+ | Crew lead, specialty roofing |
Additional sources also suggest broader ranges up to around $50,900+ for very experienced workers.
For more advanced roles like Journeyman Roofer statewide in Tennessee, average wages hit around $48,434/year (~$23/hr) with higher potential based on seniority.
💡 Factors That Influence Roofer Earnings
A roofer’s salary in Memphis isn’t static — it depends on several important variables:
🔹 Skill Level & Experience
Roofers with more years on the job and advanced techniques (shingle, metal, flat roofs) typically earn higher wages.
🔹 Type of Roofing Work
Residential roofing jobs may pay median rates.
Commercial roofing jobs often have different pay scales (mid‑$20s/hr in some postings).
🔹 Employment Status
Company‑employed roofers receive consistent hourly pay.
Independent contractors may earn more per job but face variable workflow.
🔹 Seasonal Demand
Roofing is seasonal — spring through early fall usually sees more jobs and overtime.
🔹 Special Roles & Lead Positions
Roles like roofing foreman can average around ~$57,000/year in Memphis with supervisory duties.
📈 Job Market Trends in Memphis — 2026
Roofing remains an in‑demand trade in Memphis due to several housing and construction dynamics:
🏗 Ongoing Residential Renovation & Repair
Homes routinely need roof replacements or fixes after weather events.
🏙 Steady Construction Projects
New builds and commercial developments create roofing opportunities.
📊 Consistent Skilled Labor Demand
Roofers continue to be essential as skilled construction workers, often earning competitive hourly rates.
Job postings in the region also show wages ranging from roughly $24–$30+/hr for some full‑time roofing roles plus benefits.
🎓 Certifications & Training That Boost Pay
While roofing doesn’t require formal degrees, training and credentials can improve earnings:
🔹 Apprenticeship Programs
Structured apprenticeships teach safety, installation techniques, and industry standards — making you more valuable.
🔹 OSHA & Safety Certifications
OSHA 10/30 safety certifications and fall‑protection training can improve job prospects and pay.
🔹 Specialized Roofing Certificates
Certifications in:
Flat roofing systems
Metal roofing
TPO/EPDM installation
help you qualify for higher‑paying or more technical jobs.
🧑🔧 Benefits of Being a Roofer in Memphis
Working as a roofer offers several advantages:
✔ Strong Job Demand
Roofing work is consistently needed due to weather and aging structures.
✔ Clear Skill Progression
Experience and credentials lead to higher pay and leadership roles.
✔ Variety of Work Environments
From residential to commercial roofing, jobs can vary day‑to‑day.
✔ Opportunities for Independent Work
Experienced roofers often go into contracting, setting their own rates.
🌆 Salary Comparison — Memphis vs Nearby Cities (2026)
To help you understand how Memphis pays compared to other areas, here’s a look at nearby roofing wages:
| City/Region | Typical Roofer Pay |
|---|---|
| Memphis, TN | ~$38,400/year (~$18/hr) |
| Tennessee State Average | ~$38,317/year (~$18/hr) |
| Nashville, TN Area | ~$26.51/hr (higher hourly) |
| Smaller TN Cities (e.g., Murfreesboro) | ~$23.62/hr |
Overall, Memphis aligns close to the state average for roofers, with hourly wages that remain competitive regionally.
📉 Job Outlook for Roofers in Memphis
The future for roofers in Memphis looks stable and potentially growing:
Weather events and regular maintenance create nearly year‑round demand.
Construction sector growth brings new opportunities.
Opportunities for advancement into supervisory and specialized roles (e.g., foreman, estimator).
Roofers who maintain strong safety records, reliable workmanship, and good client relationships are best positioned for upward mobility.
Conclusion
In 2026, the roofer salary in Memphis, TN reflects a strong local market with median wages around $38,000–$40,000 annually and hourly rates around $18–$25/hr depending on experience and job type. With continued construction and home renovation demand, roofers enjoy steady work, opportunities to specialize, and clear paths to higher pay, especially with experience and certifications. Compared with nearby Tennessee cities, Memphis continues to offer competitive compensation — making roofing a viable and rewarding career choice for tradespeople willing to climb the ladder.