How Much Is a Spool of Copper Wire Worth? – A Practical Guide for Buyers

If you’re planning an electrical project or sourcing materials for construction, one of the first questions you may ask is: how much is a spool of copper wire worth? The answer depends on several factors—from wire size and insulation type to market copper prices and spool length.

how much is a spool of copper wire worth

This article breaks it down to help you make an informed purchase and avoid overpaying.

📦 What Is a “Spool” of Copper Wire?

A spool refers to a reel or coil of wire, usually sold in standard lengths such as:

100 feet
250 feet
500 feet
1,000 feet

Spools are used for easy storage and efficient deployment on the job site. Copper wire can come in solid or stranded form, and with different insulation types like THHN, THW, or bare copper—each affecting the final price.

💲 Typical Price Range (As of 2025)

Wire Type	Size (AWG)	Length	Estimated Price (USD)
Bare Copper (Solid)	14 AWG	500 ft	$150 – $200
THHN Copper Wire	12 AWG	500 ft	$200 – $280
THW Copper Wire	6 AWG	500 ft	$300 – $420
VVR Copper Cable	4 AWG 2C	100 m	$500 – $800

Note: Prices vary based on region, copper market rates, and insulation type.

🔧 What Factors Affect the Cost?

Understanding what drives the cost of copper wire helps you get the best deal. Here are key factors:

Copper Price per Pound
Copper is a commodity, and its price fluctuates daily. Check current copper prices on sites like LME or Kitco.
Wire Gauge (AWG)
Thicker wires (lower AWG numbers) contain more copper and cost more.
Type of Insulation
- THHN: Popular for building wiring, heat- and oil-resistant.
- THW: Water-resistant, for wet locations.
- Bare Copper: No insulation, lower cost.
Length of the Spool
A 1,000 ft spool obviously costs more than a 250 ft spool—but price per foot may be cheaper in bulk.
Brand and Supplier
Well-known brands or UL-certified wires may cost more—but ensure quality and safety.

🛠️ Who Needs a Full Spool?

Electricians doing residential or commercial wiring
DIYers planning home renovations
Contractors purchasing in bulk for building sites
Exporters and wholesalers sourcing cost-effective wire for resale

If you're only doing a small repair, you might not need a full spool—but for large projects, buying a spool often offers better value per foot.

💡 Tips to Save on Copper Wire

Buy from wholesalers or direct from manufacturers (like TOT Wire & Cable).
Compare price per foot, not just total spool cost.
Watch the copper market—buy when prices dip.
Avoid overbuying—choose the right gauge and length for your specific needs.
Consider alternatives like tinned copper or aluminum only if permitted by code.

📞 Where to Buy Copper Wire at a Competitive Price?

At TOT Wire & Cable, we supply a wide range of copper wires—including THW, THHN, VVR, and bare copper—at competitive prices. Whether you're buying a single spool or placing a bulk order for export, we offer: