How to Become a Roofers in California
Roofers in California earn a median salary of $63,040/year, which is 24% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~3.4%. After taxes and rent, a roofers takes home approximately $2,801/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a roofers can afford in California
Becoming a roofers in California
Meet education requirements
Roofers positions in California typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many roofers positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for rooferss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 21,110 roofers. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont.
Roofers salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $76K | $36.33/hr | 1,670 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $74K | $35.59/hr | 2,330 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $65K | $31.14/hr | 420 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $63K | $30.48/hr | 1,740 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $63K | $30.22/hr | 5,450 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $63K | $30.21/hr | 2,120 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $63K | $30.06/hr | 120 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $63K | $30.06/hr | 460 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $62K | $30.03/hr | 200 |
| Salinas | $62K | $29.99/hr | 250 |
| Chico | $62K | $29.78/hr | 100 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $62K | $29.75/hr | 270 |
| Modesto | $62K | $29.64/hr | 260 |
| Vallejo | $62K | $29.62/hr | 670 |
| Redding | $61K | $29.54/hr | 220 |
Roofers salary range in California
Roofers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a roofers make in California?▼
The median roofers salary in California is $63,040 per year ($30.31/hr). This is 24% above the national median of $50,970. Salaries range from $47,090 to $95,080.
What are the requirements to become a roofers in California?▼
Roofers positions in California typically require High school diploma or equivalent. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a roofers afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $63,040, a roofers in California would take home approximately $4,213/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 33.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for roofers in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for roofers in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($75,570), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($74,020), Santa Rosa-Petaluma ($64,770). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for roofers?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.4%. On a $63,040 salary, this means roughly $2,141/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.