Current Market Trends
Scrap metal prices respond to several factors:
- Global industrial demand, especially from construction and manufacturing
- Energy costs that affect smelting and processing
- Supply from recycling collection and new scrap generation
- Trade policies and export markets
In 2025, prices show upward movement for most metals due to infrastructure projects and green energy growth.
Key Metals and Their Prices
Prices vary by type, purity, and location. Averages for clean, sorted material:
| Metal | Average Price per Pound (2025) | Common Sources | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Copper (bare bright wire) | $3.50–$4.50 | Electrical wiring, plumbing | Highest value, sensitive to demand |
| Copper (mixed) | $2.80–$3.80 | Household items, motors | Lower purity, still strong |
| Aluminum (cans) | $0.50–$0.80 | Beverage cans | Steady from recycling programs |
| Aluminum (sheet/extrusion) | $0.60–$1.00 | Siding, window frames | Higher for clean pieces |
| Steel (light iron) | $0.08–$0.15 | Appliances, vehicles | Volume-based, lower per pound |
| Stainless Steel (304) | $0.40–$0.70 | Kitchenware, equipment | Stable demand |
Copper price and aluminum stocks influence daily rates. Market price updates appear on exchange sites and local yard listings.
Regional Price Differences
Prices differ by area:
- Northeast (NY, PA): Higher for copper due to urban density
- Midwest (IL, OH): Steady steel from manufacturing
- South (TX, GA): Strong aluminum from beverage recycling
- West (CA): Competitive copper from construction
Waste management and waste disposal services near me often pay slightly less than independent yards.
Common Sources of Scrap Metal
Households and businesses generate material daily:
- Wiring and plumbing from renovations
- Old appliances and vehicles
- Beverage cans from daily use
- Construction debris like pipes and beams
Sorting by type—clean copper from insulated wire—raises returns.
Tips for Selling Scrap Metal
Contact multiple yards for quotes. Use apps or sites for live prices. Prepare material—strip insulation from wire, sort aluminum. Larger loads often receive better rates. Transport in trucks or trailers for convenience.
Environmental and Economic Impact
Recycling reduces energy use—aluminum recycling uses 95% less than new production. It supports jobs in collection, processing, and manufacturing.
Market Influences
Copper exchange and global stocks drive prices. Waste removal and disposal services feed supply chains.
Preparing for Price Movements
Monitor daily changes. Clean material fetches higher rates. Yards expect busier periods with rising prices.
Conclusion
Scrap metal prices in the US continue to offer opportunities for individuals and businesses. Local yards provide convenient ways to turn materials into cash.