Asphalt Shingle Roof Replacement cost: Lawrence vs Missoula (2026)
Lawrence runs 22% higher than Missoula for asphalt shingle roof replacement — expect around $10,950 in Lawrence against $9,000 in Missoula, a difference of about $1,950.
Lawrence MA
Typically around $10,950
Missoula MT
Lower costTypically around $9,000
Lawrence vs Missoula: full breakdown
| Factor | Lawrence | Missoula |
|---|---|---|
| Typical 2026 cost | $10,950 | $9,000 |
| Estimated range | $7,150–$14,700 | $5,900–$12,100 |
| Labor index (vs US) | ×1.14 | ×0.94 |
| Climate zone | Cold | Cold |
| Climate factor | ×1.05 | ×1.05 |
| Local permit | $325 | $250 |
| Labor share | $6,550 | $5,400 |
| Materials/equipment | $4,400 | $3,600 |
Asphalt shingle roof replacement numbers here are 2026 planning ranges, adjusted per city — useful for budgeting, not a substitute for an actual quote.
How much should this gap actually matter?
That's a real $1,950 difference (22%) on asphalt shingle roof replacement — worth factoring in, though off-season timing and a tighter quote in Lawrence can narrow it.
Asphalt shingle roof replacement by type: Lawrence vs Missoula
Each asphalt shingle roof replacement option, priced separately for both metros — the same local labor, climate and permit adjustments applied per city, so you can compare like for like.
| Type | Lawrence | Missoula |
|---|---|---|
| 3-tab shingles | $7,150–$12,300 | $5,900–$10,100 |
| Architectural shingles | $8,700–$14,700 | $7,150–$12,100 |
All figures are 2026 localized planning estimates for asphalt shingle roof replacement — get an actual quote before you commit.
Asphalt shingle roof replacement by roof size: Lawrence vs Missoula
Roofing is priced per 'square' (100 sq ft of roof). A roof is bigger than the home's footprint because of pitch and overhangs — a 2,000 sq ft home often has a 2,200–2,600 sq ft roof. Asphalt runs about $3–$5 per sq ft installed.
| Size | Lawrence | Missoula |
|---|---|---|
| 1,000 sq ft (10 squares) | $4,850–$8,700 | $4,000–$7,150 |
| 1,500 sq ft (15 squares) | $6,300–$11,700 | $5,200–$9,650 |
| 2,000 sq ft (20 squares) | $7,150–$14,700 | $5,900–$12,100 |
| 2,500 sq ft (25 squares) | $9,300–$17,100 | $7,650–$14,050 |
| 3,000 sq ft (30 squares) | $11,100–$20,650 | $9,150–$17,050 |
| 3,500+ sq ft (35 squares) | $12,900–$24,250 | $10,600–$20,000 |
Treat these as 2026 localized estimates for asphalt shingle roof replacement, not quotes from a contractor.
What roofing pros earn in each metro
Roughly 60% of what you pay for asphalt shingle roof replacement is labor, which is why local wages explain most of the price gap. The numbers below are actual metro wages for skilled installers, sourced from BLS OEWS — not guesses.
Boston-Cambridge-Newton metro · about 23% above the US average installer wage.
No BLS metro wage series for Missoula; we use Montana regional price parity instead.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS metro wages for HVAC installers (used as a trade-labor index).
Cheapest time for asphalt shingle roof replacement in either city
Shingles need warm, dry weather to seal, and demand peaks after summer storms. Booking in the slow late-fall/winter window for a spring install often earns you off-season pricing.
Where does a smart roofing budget go in 2026?
Tear-off vs. overlay, shingle tier and what's hidden under the deck decide the real number. Our editors on the trade-offs.
The value case
Architectural shingles hit the sweet spot — far more durable than 3-tab for a modest premium, and far cheaper than metal or tile. For most homes they're the right default.
The do-it-right case
Pay for a full tear-off and quality underlayment, flashing and ventilation. An overlay saves money today but traps heat, voids some warranties and costs more at the next replacement.
The risk case
Budget for the unknown: rotten decking found at tear-off is the most common surprise. Get the per-sheet repair rate in writing up front so a "cheap" bid doesn't balloon mid-job.
Whatever the headline bid says, the roof that lasts is the one installed on a bare, sound deck with the repair price fixed in advance. Overlays and open-ended decking charges are where a cheap quote turns expensive down the line.
Lawrence vs Missoula
Is asphalt shingle roof replacement cheaper in Lawrence or Missoula?
Missoula wins on price: asphalt shingle roof replacement runs about $9,000 there versus $10,950 in Lawrence, a gap of roughly $1,950 (22%) as of 2026.
Why does asphalt shingle roof replacement cost more in Lawrence than Missoula?
The main driver is local labor rates: Lawrence's labor index is 1.14 versus 0.94 in Missoula. Climate zone (cold vs cold) and permit fees also shift the total.
How much is asphalt shingle roof replacement in Lawrence, MA?
In Lawrence, asphalt shingle roof replacement typically runs $7,150–$14,700 in 2026, with most homeowners paying around $10,950.
When is the cheapest time to buy asphalt shingle roof replacement — and does it differ by city?
The best window is the same in both Lawrence and Missoula: Late spring to early fall (dry, 45–85°F), when demand drops and installers discount to keep crews busy — typically 5–10% off peak pricing. The most expensive time anywhere is an emergency replacement during mid-winter and the post-storm rush.
Should I choose where to live based on asphalt shingle roof replacement cost?
Rarely. The $1,950 difference is real but one-time, and you can often close most of it in Lawrence by buying in the off-season and getting tighter, apples-to-apples bids. Ongoing factors — energy prices, climate and home condition — matter more over the life of the system.
Compare asphalt shingle roof replacement in other cities
Updated June 2026 · By Serhat Özçelik