ScrapToday’s Copper Scrap Prices in California
In-depth analytics for copper scrap prices in California. Compare local scrap yard buyout rates with COMEX Copper exchange benchmarks, use the lot calculator to estimate your payout, and find the yards with the best offers near you.
Local data is supplemented with national averages for the most accurate estimate. The market moves as one trend — use the national figure as your reference point.
Price trends for copper scrap by grade
over the last 6 monthsIn the last 6 months in the Copper category: price is up for 3 grades and price is steady for 2 grades.
U.S. National Price Benchmark — Copper in California
Local scrap yards in California sometimes post their prices with a short delay. To keep you informed of what your metal is worth right now, we use U.S. national averages as a reference. The secondary metals market responds to exchange moves in sync across the country — use this national benchmark when negotiating with local buyers. Copper prices across the U.S. →
Copper scrap prices by grade in California
Here is the Copper data we have on file for California. Local yards don't always update their online prices daily — if your grade isn't listed, use the National Benchmark above as leverage when negotiating with local buyers.
Scrap yards paying the most for copper scrap in California
Live prices from local scrap yards in California. Compare offers and find the buyer paying the most.
Greener Recycling
TM Scrap Metals Inc.
Scrap Stop
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🚀 List your scrap yard ⟶Price chart: copper scrap grades and COMEX Copper exchange data
The chart shows average yard buyout rates and COMEX Copper exchange data for your selected copper scrap grade. When the exchange moves up and local yard prices lag, they typically follow within a few trading days — a signal to hold if you can. When both lines drop, sell now before yards update their offers downward. Switch grades using the selector above the chart.
Calculate the value of your copper scrap lot
Selling a mixed load? Pick the grades below — a weight field appears after you select at least one grade, then the calculator estimates your haul's value from current average prices California.
Compare copper scrap grades and their value
COMEX Copper (99.9% cathode) is the global benchmark. Each scrap grade trades at a discount based on copper content, cleanliness, and processing needed. Identifying your material correctly before selling is the single most effective step to maximize your payout.
| Grade | Exchange (100%) | Yard Price (per lb) | Grade Quality |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light Copper / Sheet Copper | $6.49/ lb COMEX | $4.87/ lb | High Grade•75% |
| Bare Bright Copper | $6.49/ lb COMEX | $4.78/ lb | High Grade•74% |
| #1 Copper | $6.49/ lb COMEX | $4.58/ lb | High Grade•70% |
| #2 Copper | $6.49/ lb COMEX | $4.38/ lb | Mid Grade•67% |
| Copper Turnings | $6.49/ lb COMEX | $3.91/ lb | Low Grade•60% |
📊 What determines the value of copper scrap:
- Bare bright copper: Stripped, uncoated, unalloyed copper wire #1 — the top scrap grade. Priced closest to COMEX Copper.
- #1 copper: Clean, uncoated copper pipe, bus bar, and sheet with no solder or paint — just below bare bright.
- #2 copper: Copper with minor contamination, solder joints, paint, or coatings — discounted vs. #1.
- Light copper / sheet copper: Thinner gauge; requires more processing — lower payout per pound than heavy copper.
- Copper turnings: Must be dry and clean of coolant. Oily turnings carry deductions.
Map of scrap yards buying copper scrap
The map below shows yards currently listing prices for copper scrap. Select your state on the map or from the list to see current per-pound rates for all grades at local yards.