Roof Mount vs Pole Mount for a Starlink Dish
Roof mount or pole mount for your Starlink dish? Compare obstructions, cost, roof risk, snow, wind and cable runs before you hire an installer.
Roof mount
Best when your roof has a clear view of the northern sky (in the US) and an easy cable path. Typical cost: $100–$400. Watch for: roof penetrations, metal or tile roofs, and two-story access.
Pole or ground mount
Best when trees block the roof, or you don't want holes in it. Typical cost: $350–$600+, plus footing and trenching. Watch for: buried utilities (call 811 before digging) and long cable runs.
Wall or eave mount
This is a middle option, at about $100–$350, if the eave clears the obstructions.
How to decide
Run an obstruction check with the provider's app from each candidate spot, then share screenshots with installers when you request quotes.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better for snow?
Both work. The dish has a snow-melt mode, so place it where shedding snow can't pile up around it.
Do I need a permit?
Usually not for a roof mount. Some HOAs and towns have rules for poles; check before you book.
Get matched with an installer
Tell us about the job and we'll match you with one independent local installer. Request free quotes.