Chicago Scrap Metal Prices – Week of April 27, 2026

27 Apr Chicago Scrap Metal Prices – Week of April 27, 2026

Here is where Chicago scrap metal prices stand for the week of April 27, 2026. Copper is holding attention as the primary mover this week, while aluminum continues its steady trend. Steel and iron remain the most predictable side of the yard. Here is the quick rundown before you load up the truck.

Copper Prices in Chicago This Week

Bare bright copper is running $4.90/lb this week, with #1 copper pipe coming in around $4.80/lb and #2 copper at $4.70/lb. Insulated house wire is landing in the $3.40/lb range depending on insulation thickness and stripping. If you have a mix of grades, it is worth separating them before you come in – clean bare bright gets you more than lumping it in with #2.

For Chicago contractors pulling copper pipe out of a gut rehab, this is still a solid week to bring it in. Plumbers and electricians doing work on the West Side or surrounding suburbs should not sit on it – grades can shift with the market condidtions. Call us at (773) 345-8610 if you want a quote before making the trip.

Aluminum Prices This Week

Aluminum extrusion is at $0.70/lb and cast aluminum is running $0.60/lb. Cans are coming in at $0.55/lb – not the highest-value load, but worth bringing if you have volume. The trend this week is flat. Sheet aluminum and rims are in the same general range – sort by grade if you want to maximize your payout.

Steel and Iron Prices

Light iron and appliances are running $225/net ton this week, with heavy melt at $235/net ton. Ferrous prices are set at the start of the month and do not move around like copper does – what you see this week is what you should expect through the end of April. If you are hauling appliances, steel pipe, or rebar, these numbers are stable and you can plan your load accordingly.

What This Means for Chicago Scrappers

Copper is the grade worth prioritizing right now – separate your wire, strip what you can, and get it in clean. Aluminum and steel are steady, so haul what you have and do not overthink the timing.

Bring your scrap to Central Metal Recycling at 5618 W. Fillmore St. We’re open Mon-Fri 7am-4pm and Saturday 7am-11am. Call (773) 345-8610 for today’s exact rates.