Drywall Installer vs Roofer: Salary, Training & Career Comparison
Trying to decide between a career as a drywall installer or a roofer? Here's a side-by-side look at the numbers that matter most: pay, job outlook, training requirements, and more.
| Category | 🏗️ Drywall Installer | 🏠 Roofer |
|---|---|---|
| Median Hourly | $23.50/hr | $22/hr |
| Median Annual | $48,900/yr | $45,800/yr |
| Job Growth (10-yr) | -1.0% | 2.0% |
| Total Jobs | 122,000 | 156,600 |
| Training Time | 3-4 years | 4 years |
| Top-Paying State | Hawaii ($66,700/yr) | Hawaii ($62,700/yr) |
| Union Rate | $28/hr (UBC) | $27.50/hr (UURWAW) |
Salary Comparison
Roofers earn about $1,200/yr more on average
Which Career Is Right for You?
Both drywall installers and roofers are solid career paths with good earning potential and strong job security. The best choice depends on your interests, physical abilities, and lifestyle preferences.
🏗️ Choose Drywall Installer if...
Drywall installers hang and finish drywall panels in residential and commercial buildings. Finishing work takes real skill, and fast, clean hangers and tapers can earn strong piece-rate pay.
Drywall Installer salary data →🏠 Choose Roofer if...
Roofers install and repair roofs using shingles, metal, membrane, and other materials. The work is seasonal in some regions, but skilled roofers stay busy year-round and can earn well above average for the construction industry.
Roofer salary data →Training difference: Roofers apprentice 4 years vs 3-4 for drywall
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Drywall Installers earn a national median of $48,900/yr compared to $45,800/yr for roofers. That's a difference of about $3,100/yr.
Roofer jobs are projected to grow at 2.0% over the next decade, compared to -1.0% for drywall installers.
Roofers apprentice 4 years vs 3-4 for drywall. Both paths require dedication and hands-on training, but the length and structure differ.
While some skills transfer between trades, switching typically requires additional training and licensing. That said, the foundational skills -- problem solving, working with tools, reading blueprints -- are valuable in any trade. Some workers complete training in multiple trades over their career.