Texas, known for its strong industrial base, is one of the top states in the U.S. when it comes to metal recycling. Whether you're in Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, or smaller cities like Tyler or Lubbock, stainless steel scrap has value — and 2025 is shaping up to be a promising year for scrap metal sellers. If you're wondering about the stainless steel scrap price in Texas, this article will give you the current rates, factors affecting prices, and smart tips to get the best deals.
What Is the Current Stainless Steel Scrap Price in Texas?
As of April 2025, the average price for stainless steel scrap in Texas ranges between $0.55 and $1.25 per pound, depending on the grade, condition, and demand in your local area.
Here’s a breakdown of common grades and their estimated price range:
304 Stainless Steel: $0.60 – $0.80 per lb
316 Stainless Steel: $0.95 – $1.25 per lb
Stainless Turnings: $0.40 – $0.65 per lb
Duplex Stainless (if accepted): $1.00 – $1.35 per lb
These rates are influenced by global markets and change frequently. It’s always best to check with your local scrap yard before hauling in large loads.
Top Cities in Texas for Selling Stainless Steel Scrap
While stainless scrap prices don’t vary drastically between cities, competition and access to larger recycling centers can affect what you're offered. Here are major hubs:
Houston – Strong industrial demand, many scrap yards, good prices
Dallas/Fort Worth – Competitive pricing, especially for bulk sellers
San Antonio – Growing scrap metal market, reasonable rates
Austin – Tech and manufacturing waste drive stainless recycling
El Paso & Lubbock – Regional buyers often offer fair deals
What Affects Stainless Steel Scrap Prices in Texas?
Several factors drive the pricing of stainless steel scrap. Understanding them can help you time your sale for maximum profit:
Nickel Content: Grades like 316 have higher nickel content, which increases their value. Since nickel prices are volatile, stainless scrap prices can change quickly.
International Market Demand: China, India, and Turkey are major consumers of scrap. When their demand increases, prices in Texas rise too.
Fuel & Transport Costs: Rising diesel or gas prices increase the operational cost for scrap yards, which can affect what they offer sellers.
Metal Purity: Stainless steel that’s clean (no rust, dirt, or attached materials) gets higher prices. Contaminated scrap may be downgraded.
Volume: Larger loads often fetch better rates. Yards may negotiate higher prices for commercial or industrial sellers.
Where Can You Sell Stainless Steel Scrap in Texas?
Here are some reliable options across Texas:
CMC Recycling (locations in Houston, Austin, Odessa, and more)
SA Recycling (statewide)
Action Metals Recyclers (Dallas)
Houston Metal Recycling
Alamo Metal Recycling (San Antonio)
You can also check platforms like:
ScrapMonster
iScrap App
Recycler Finder
These tools show live prices and nearby dealers.
Benefits of Recycling Stainless Steel
Besides making extra money, recycling stainless steel has environmental and economic advantages:
Saves Energy: Recycling uses 60–70% less energy than producing new stainless steel.
Reduces Pollution: Less mining means fewer carbon emissions.
Supports Jobs: Metal recycling is a major employer in Texas.
Conserves Resources: Stainless steel contains chromium and nickel — both limited and expensive elements.
Tips to Get the Best Price for Stainless Steel Scrap
Sort Your Metals: Separate stainless steel from aluminum, copper, and other materials.
Clean the Scrap: Remove plastic, rubber, or any non-metal attachments.
Know Your Grades: Identify if your scrap is 304 or 316. Higher grades mean better payout.
Weigh Before You Go: Know your weight so you can compare what the yard offers.
Negotiate: Especially if you're a repeat or bulk seller. Some yards may offer loyalty bonuses.
Watch the Market: Stainless steel scrap prices can rise and fall quickly. Sell when nickel prices are high.
2025 Outlook: Will Stainless Scrap Prices Go Up?
The outlook for stainless steel scrap prices in Texas for the rest of 2025 is cautiously optimistic. With increased infrastructure spending, a rise in green building projects, and a global shift toward recycled metals, demand for stainless scrap is expected to grow. If nickel prices continue to climb — and supply remains limited — sellers could see higher offers in the second half of the year.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to turn stainless steel scrap into cash, Texas offers a solid and competitive market. With prices hovering between $0.55 and $1.25 per pound, and plenty of recycling centers available, there’s good money to be made — especially if you sort, clean, and monitor market trends.
Always get multiple quotes, understand your scrap’s value, and stay informed. Whether you're an individual or a business, selling stainless steel scrap in Texas in 2025 can be both profitable and eco-friendly.
