Staying updated on current scrap metal prices in Texas can help homeowners, contractors, and businesses earn more from their recyclable materials. Here’s a streamlined overview of today’s most sought-after metals—accurate as of June 2025 based on local scrap yards and market-tracking sites. Prices can vary slightly depending on your location in Texas (e.g., Houston vs. Dallas vs. Fort Worth), so always double-check with your local dealer.
? Non-Ferrous Metals (Most Valuable)
Copper – #1 (Bare Bright)
Commonly ranges $3.15 – $3.87 per lb, with some yards paying up to $3.87
#2 Copper: $3.00 – $3.80 per lb
Insulated #1 Copper Wire: $1.50 – $1.60 per lb
Insulated #2 Wire: Around $0.70 – $1.00 per lb
Brass
Yellow Brass: $2.00 – $2.65 per lb
Red Brass: $2.20 – $3.19 per lbBrass Radiators (clean): Up to $2.50 per lb
Aluminum
Sheet & clean: $0.48 – $0.70 per lb .
Aluminum cans: $0.68 – $0.82 per lb
Cast/extruded wheels: $0.63 – $0.99 per lb
Stainless Steel
304 Stainless: $0.30 – $0.45 per lb
316 Stainless: Slightly higher at around $0.76 – $0.85 per lb .
Lead & Batteries
Clean lead: $0.35 – $0.56 per lb.
Lead-acid car batteries: $0.17 – $0.26 per
? Ferrous Metals
Steel & Iron (priced per ton or per 100 lb)
Heavy Melting Steel (HMS): $140 – $155 per ton (~$0.07/lb) Cast/Prepared iron: $130 – $185 per ton .
Miscellaneous shredded scrap: $0.07 – $0.09 per lb
? Miscellaneous Scrap Items
Electric motors: $0.20 – $0.32 per lb .
Circuit boards/radiators: High-grade boards can reach up to $1.60/lb, radiators around $1.50 – $2.50/lb .
Catalytic converters: Range from $50 to over $200 each, depending on type .
✅ How to Maximize Your Scrap Value
Sort and separate metals—especially ferrous vs. non‑ferrous.
Clean thoroughly, removing any attachments to boost purity.
Track daily price fluctuations, particularly for copper and aluminum.
Compare local yard rates, since rates differ between cities like Houston, Dallas, and Fort Worth.
Sell high-grade categories like Bare Bright copper, red brass, and 316 stainless for better profits.
? Bottom Line
Texas scrap metal prices are on the rise, especially for copper and brass, making now a great time to recycle. By staying informed and handling materials correctly, you can maximize returns and support environmental sustainability. For the best outcome, partner with reputable yards using certified scales, transparent pricing, and current market data.
