Metal Roof Installation cost: Allentown vs Scranton (2026)
The two metros aren't quite in sync on metal roof installation: Allentown sits 4% above Scranton, or roughly $22,400 versus $21,550 — about $850 apart.
Allentown PA
Typically around $22,400
Scranton PA
Lower costTypically around $21,550
Allentown vs Scranton: full breakdown
| Factor | Allentown | Scranton |
|---|---|---|
| Typical 2026 cost | $22,400 | $21,550 |
| Estimated range | $13,650–$31,100 | $13,100–$29,950 |
| Labor index (vs US) | ×0.99 | ×0.95 |
| Climate zone | Cold | Cold |
| Climate factor | ×1.04 | ×1.04 |
| Local permit | $275 | $250 |
| Labor share | $13,450 | $12,950 |
| Materials/equipment | $8,950 | $8,600 |
These are 2026 planning figures for metal roof installation, localized to each city — not formal quotes.
Is the gap worth worrying about?
A 4% difference on metal roof installation is minor — you'll typically see a wider spread just from getting multiple quotes in the same city, so don't let location drive the decision.
Metal roof installation by type: Allentown vs Scranton
Below, each metal roof installation option is priced independently for both cities, with identical local labor, climate and permit logic applied — so the comparison holds up.
| Type | Allentown | Scranton |
|---|---|---|
| Corrugated steel (exposed fastener) | $9,500–$18,750 | $9,150–$18,050 |
| Standing-seam steel | $18,750–$36,250 | $18,050–$34,900 |
| Aluminum | $14,650–$29,050 | $14,100–$27,950 |
| Copper | $31,100–$61,950 | $29,950–$59,650 |
| Zinc | $29,050–$56,800 | $27,950–$54,700 |
Localized 2026 planning estimates — not quotes. Each city adjusts the national metal roof installation range for local labor, climate and permits.
Metal roof installation by roof size: Allentown vs Scranton
Metal roofing is priced per square (100 sq ft) and costs roughly $6–$14 per sq ft installed — two to three times asphalt, but it lasts decades longer. Standing-seam costs more than exposed-fastener panels.
| Size | Allentown | Scranton |
|---|---|---|
| 1,000 sq ft (10 squares) | $8,500–$16,700 | $8,150–$16,100 |
| 1,500 sq ft (15 squares) | $11,600–$23,900 | $11,150–$23,000 |
| 2,000 sq ft (20 squares) | $13,650–$31,100 | $13,100–$29,950 |
| 2,500 sq ft (25 squares) | $16,700–$37,250 | $16,100–$35,900 |
| 3,000+ sq ft (30 squares) | $19,800–$43,450 | $19,050–$41,850 |
Metal roof installation numbers here are 2026 planning ranges, adjusted per city — useful for budgeting, not a substitute for an actual quote.
Cheapest time for metal roof installation in either city
Roofers are slammed the moment warm weather returns, especially after storms. Get on their books in the off-season for a spring job and you're negotiating with an empty calendar, not a waiting list.
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 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 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 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.
Insist on tear-off over overlay, get the deck-repair rate in writing before work starts, and lean toward architectural shingles. Skipping any of the three tends to cost more later than it saves now.
Allentown vs Scranton
Is metal roof installation cheaper in Allentown or Scranton?
Scranton wins on price: metal roof installation runs about $21,550 there versus $22,400 in Allentown, a gap of roughly $850 (4%) as of 2026.
Why does metal roof installation cost more in Allentown than Scranton?
It comes down to labor: Allentown indexes at 0.99 against Scranton's 0.95. The cold-vs-cold climate difference, plus permit fees, adds to the gap.
How much is metal roof installation in Allentown, PA?
Allentown homeowners can expect $13,650 to $31,100 for metal roof installation in 2026, with $22,400 the typical number.
When is the cheapest time to buy metal roof installation — and does it differ by city?
No, the seasonal pattern is the same in Allentown and Scranton: book during Late spring to early fall (dry, 45–85°F) for about 5–10% in savings. Mid-winter and the post-storm rush is the priciest stretch in both cities, mostly due to emergency replacements.
Should I choose where to live based on metal roof installation cost?
Probably not. Yes, $850 is a real gap, but it's a one-time cost you can partly offset in Allentown with off-season timing and tighter bids. Long-term factors like energy prices and home condition matter more than this one number.
Compare metal roof installation in other cities
Updated June 2026 · By Serhat Özçelik