Today's How Much Is Scrap Metal Worth? Complete Price Guide — August 01, 2026

Metal / GradePrice Per PoundTrend
Copper (bare bright)$3.80–$4.20/lb↑
Aluminum (extrusion)$0.55–$0.75/lb→
Brass (yellow)$1.80–$2.20/lb↑
Stainless Steel 304$0.35–$0.55/lb→
Inconel 625$8.00–$14.00/lb↑
Lead (soft)$0.55–$0.75/lb→
Titanium Grade 5$4.00–$8.00/lb→
Steel HMS #1$220–$280/ton→
Cast Iron$150–$200/ton→
Tungsten Carbide$4.00–$8.00/lb↑

Scrap Metal Price Guide by Category

Scrap metal prices change daily based on commodity markets, mill demand, and global supply chains. The prices below are current estimates as of today. For an exact quote on your specific material, use our free calculator or call us directly.

Highest Value Scrap Metals

Nickel alloys (Inconel, Hastelloy, Monel, Waspaloy) are the most valuable scrap metals by weight, paying $6–$18/lb depending on the specific alloy. These come from aerospace, oil & gas, and chemical processing industries.

Copper is the most commonly traded high-value scrap metal, paying $3.50–$4.20/lb for clean bare bright wire. Copper is found in electrical wire, plumbing, motors, transformers, and heat exchangers.

Titanium pays $4–$8/lb for Grade 5 (6Al-4V) and is found in aerospace components, medical implants, and high-performance equipment.

Mid-Value Scrap Metals

Brass ($1.80–$2.40/lb), stainless steel ($0.35–$0.70/lb), and lead ($0.55–$0.75/lb) are the most common mid-value metals. They come from plumbing, food processing equipment, and industrial facilities.

Bulk/Tonnage Scrap Metals

Steel and iron are priced by the ton ($150–$290/ton) rather than by the pound. Large quantities from demolition and plant shutdowns are our specialty.

How to Get the Best Price for Your Scrap Metal

  • Sort your metals: Mixed loads get downgraded. Separate copper from aluminum from steel.
  • Know what you have: Identify the alloy if possible — 316 stainless is worth 35% more than 304.
  • Quantity matters: Larger loads get better per-pound pricing.
  • Call multiple buyers: Prices vary between buyers. We consistently pay top market rates.
  • Use our calculator: Get an instant estimate before you call.

Frequently Asked Questions

What scrap metal is worth the most money?
Nickel alloys like Inconel 625 ($8–$14/lb), Hastelloy C-276 ($7–$12/lb), and Waspaloy ($10–$18/lb) are the most valuable. Copper ($3.80–$4.20/lb) and titanium ($4–$8/lb) are close behind.
How do I find out what my scrap metal is worth?
Use our free scrap metal price calculator at scrapmetalbuyers.com/calculator/ for an instant estimate. Or call (754) 310-2984 and describe your material — we'll give you a live quote in minutes.
Do scrap metal prices change daily?
Yes — copper, aluminum, and other non-ferrous metals are priced based on daily LME (London Metal Exchange) futures. Steel prices change weekly based on mill demand. Our prices page is updated every morning.
What is the best way to sell scrap metal?
Sort your metals by type, remove contamination (steel from aluminum, plastic from copper), weigh your load if possible, then call us for a quote. For loads over 500 lbs, we offer free pickup anywhere in the US.
Do you pay cash for scrap metal?
Yes — we pay by check, ACH, or wire transfer same day or next business day. For large plant shutdown transactions, we can arrange payment terms that work for your accounting needs.

Get a Live Quote Now

Call us with your material and quantity — we'll give you a price in minutes. Free pickup for loads over 500 lbs anywhere in the US.

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