How Much is 1 Meter of Copper Wire?
The cost of 1 meter of copper wire varies significantly based on factors such as the wire's gauge (thickness), type (bare or insulated), insulation material, regional market, and current commodity prices. Copper wire is typically sold for electrical, industrial, or crafting applications, with prices influenced by global supply chains and manufacturing costs. As of November 2025, the base spot price for copper is approximately $5.09 per pound (equivalent to about $11.22 per kilogram), but retail prices for finished wire include additional markups for processing, insulation, and distribution. Base material costs alone do not reflect the final retail price, which can range from $0.10 to $20 per meter depending on specifications.
To provide precise guidance, the following table presents representative retail prices for common types of copper electrical wire, based on current market data. These estimates exclude taxes, shipping, or installation and are derived from producer indexes and supplier listings. Prices are higher for thicker gauges due to increased material content and are lower for bulk purchases. For bare copper wire, prices are generally 20–40% lower than insulated variants, but insulation adds durability and safety for electrical use.
Table of Contents
1. Price Table
| Gauge (AWG or mm² Equivalent) | Type | Approximate Price per Meter (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 14 AWG (1.63 mm²) | THHN Insulated | $0.50–$1.00 | Suitable for household lighting circuits; common in US residential applications. Producer index indicates stable pricing with minor fluctuations. |
| 12 AWG (2.05 mm²) | NM-B (Romex) Sheathed | $1.00–$2.00 | Used for general outlet wiring; national average for copper electric wire is around $1.29 per meter for standard building wire. |
| 10 AWG (3.31 mm²) | THHN Insulated | $1.50–$3.00 | For higher-current applications like appliances; prices reflect a 2.1% quarterly decline in some regions due to inventory surplus. |
| 8 AWG (5.26 mm²) | Bare Copper | $2.00–$4.00 | Often used for grounding; Camden base price for processed copper contributes to higher costs at $7.05 per pound. |
| 2.5 mm² (Metric Standard) | PVC Insulated Single-Core | $0.70–$1.50 | Prevalent in Europe and Asia; global wholesale can drop to $0.20 for bulk, with US equivalents at higher end. |
2. Key Influencing Factors
- Raw Material Fluctuations: Copper prices have risen 17.69% year-over-year, driven by demand from renewable energy and electric vehicles. Producer indexes show copper wire costs at 471.14 for August 2025, indicating ongoing upward pressure.
- Gauge and Length: Thicker wires (lower AWG numbers) cost more per meter due to greater copper content. Retail prices for small lengths are higher than bulk spools.
- Type and Insulation: Bare wire is less expensive than insulated or sheathed options. Advanced insulation (e.g., XLPE for high-temperature use) adds 20–50% to the base price.
- Regional Variations: In the US, prices average $22,945 per metric ton for copper wire, equating to higher per-meter costs. In Asia, figures are lower at around $9,654 per metric ton due to manufacturing efficiencies.
- Market Trends: Supply disruptions and green technology demand are expected to keep prices elevated through 2025, with forecasts predicting continued volatility.
3. Recommendations
For the most accurate pricing tailored to specific requirements, consult local suppliers or online retailers, as rates can fluctuate daily. If additional details are provided, such as the desired gauge or application, a more refined estimate can be offered.
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