Scrap Metal Prices in Illinois Today
Review current scrap metal scale averages across 2 active recycling facilities in Illinois, benchmarking local payouts directly against the US national index. Compare localized non-ferrous and ferrous rates, track regional freight spreads, and verify state scale compliance requirements.
Illinois Scrap Prices vs National Average
Compare localized scrapyard scale rates across Illinois against national averages to determine whether local buyers are offering a premium or discount.
| Metal | IL Average | US National Avg | Difference | Reporting Yards |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Copper | $5.08/lb | $4.98/lb | +1.9% | 2 yards |
Ferrous materials (steel, iron) also show price per US short ton (2,000 lb). Non-ferrous is quoted per pound.
12-Month Price Trend in Illinois
Historical 12-month scrap price trajectory in Illinois compared against the US national benchmark.
Solid blue line: Illinois average. Dashed line: US national average.
All Metal Grades in Illinois
Detailed breakdown of current Illinois scrap prices across non-ferrous and ferrous categories, organized by commercial grade.
Copper Scrap Prices in Illinois
| Grade | IL Average | US National Avg | Difference | Reporting Yards |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bare Bright Copper | $5.04/lb | $5.14/lb | -2.1% | 2 |
| #1 Copper | $5.08/lb | $4.98/lb | +1.9% | 2 |
| #2 Copper | $4.87/lb | $4.79/lb | +1.7% | 2 |
Electric Motors Scrap Prices in Illinois
| Grade | IL Average | US National Avg | Difference | Reporting Yards |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Copper Electric Motors | $0.110/lb | $0.312/lb | -64.7% | 1 |
Iron Scrap Prices in Illinois
| Grade | IL Average | US National Avg | Difference | Reporting Yards |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Automotive Cast Iron (Rotors/Drums) | $0.130/lb · $260/ton | $0.116/lb · $232/ton | +12.1% | 2 |
| Cast Iron (Heavy) | $0.101/lb · $202/ton | $0.088/lb · $176/ton | +14.8% | 2 |
| Light Iron & Shredder | $0.120/lb · $240/ton | $0.087/lb · $174/ton | +37.9% | 2 |
Selling scrap metal in Illinois
Scrap prices in Illinois generally move with national prices but can sit a little above or below them, depending on nearby mills and ports, freight costs, and which grades yards there report. The figures on this page are state averages from reporting yards, so use them as a benchmark when you call around.
ID and local rules
Most yards ask for a government-issued photo ID. Many states also have extra rules for items that are often stolen, such as catalytic converters, copper wire, and utility or railroad materials. Rules differ by state and sometimes by city, so check with the yard or your state's rules before you go.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common answers on scrap metal grading standards, scale payout rules, sorting methods, and scale ticket calculations.
Is scrap metal worth more in Illinois than in other states?
The table above compares each metal in Illinois with the national average. Differences are usually modest and come from nearby mills and ports, freight costs, and which grades yards report. Use the state figure as a benchmark when you call local yards.
What do I need to sell scrap metal in Illinois?
Most yards ask for a government-issued photo ID. Many states also have extra rules for items that are often stolen, such as catalytic converters, copper wire, and utility materials. Rules differ by state and sometimes by city, so check with the yard before you go.
Does this page list scrap yards near me?
No. It shows average prices, not individual yards. Use these figures to judge whether a local yard's quote is fair, and ask each yard what grade it would pay for your material.