By Lawrence Reinholt, Roofing Guides Editor
Updated September 2026
Quick answer: For a 2,000 sq ft roof in Albuquerque, published 2025 local data puts asphalt shingles at $5,500 to $8,500 and metal at $10,000 to $20,000. Metal lasts far longer in this dry climate and sheds sun and rain well; shingles cost less up front. The better value depends on how long you plan to own the home.
Part 1 of 5
The published numbers
Local 2025 data for a 2,000 sq ft roof puts asphalt shingles at $5,500 to $8,500 and metal at $10,000 to $20,000. Another 2026 source puts asphalt shingles at $3.50 to $5.50 per sq ft installed. These are planning ranges, not quotes; roof shape, tear-off and details move them.
Part 2 of 5
What shingles give you
Architectural shingles are the standard pitched roof here: lower cost, many colors, simple repairs. Their weak point is sun: UV at altitude dries the asphalt and loosens granules, and south and west slopes wear first. Impact-rated Class 4 shingles cost more but resist hail far better. See shingle roofing for options.
Part 3 of 5
What metal gives you
Standing seam metal lasts far longer, sheds monsoon rain quickly, handles UV with a factory finish, and weighs little. Exposed-fastener panels cost less but need periodic screw checks. Hail can dent thinner gauges. See metal roofing for panel types.
Questions about your own roof? Call and talk to a roofer.
Call (505) 636-9496Part 4 of 5
How to decide
If you plan to stay for decades, metal's longer life often makes the higher price worthwhile. If you may sell in a few years, shingles usually return more of their cost. In hail-prone neighborhoods, compare Class 4 shingles against metal, since both are built for impact.
Part 5 of 5
Get both priced
The fairest comparison is two prices for your own roof, with the same tear-off, deck repair and flashing details written into both. That shows the real difference instead of a rule of thumb. For what goes into any replacement quote, see questions to ask a roofer.
FAQ
Common questions on this topic
Published local ranges put it around double for a typical roof.
Yes. It does not lose granules to the sun, and a good finish resists fading.
Over solid decking and underlayment, most owners hear little difference.
Heavier metal and Class 4 shingles both resist hail well.
Sometimes, over one sound layer.
It varies by buyer; metal's longevity is a selling point.
Yes. We price both on the same scope.