Across U.S. metros, glaziers typically earn $5,100 more a year than roofers (10%). In the 145 metros where BLS publishes both, glaziers earn more in 87 and roofers in 58.
| Glazier | Roofer | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical metro median pay | $55,240 | $50,140 |
| Lowest metro median | $33,280 | $24,100 |
| Highest metro median | $107,610 | $105,270 |
| Job growth 2025–35 (U.S.) | +1.9% | +5.3% |
| Openings per year (U.S.) | 3,900 | 12,000 |
| Self-employed | 1% | 20% |
| Typical education | High school diploma or equivalent | No formal educational credential |
| Typical training | Apprenticeship | Moderate-term on-the-job training |
| Injury rate per 10k workers (U.S.) | 121 | 162 |
| Metros with pay data | 161 | 265 |
On safety, roofers report more injuries that cause missed work (162 vs. 121 per 10,000 full-time workers, national 2023–24).
Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025 (typical = median across metros). Growth, openings, education, training: BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Injuries: BLS SOII 2023–24.
Where glaziers out-earn roofers the most Our calculation
Gap in median yearly pay, same metro.
Where roofers out-earn glaziers the most
Gap in median yearly pay, same metro.
What each trade does
Glazier
Install glass in windows, skylights, store fronts, and display cases, or on surfaces, such as building fronts, interior walls, ceilings, and tabletops.
Roofer
Cover roofs of structures with shingles, slate, asphalt, aluminum, wood, or related materials. May spray roofs, sidings, and walls with material to bind, seal, insulate, or soundproof sections of structures.
Compare one trade across two cities →