That's a really practical question that city planners and public works departments grapple with constantly. From my observations and research, the answer isn't simple—it's a spectrum of durability largely dependent on material, design, and location.
Modern urban bins, especially in high-traffic or problem areas, are designed with vandalism in mind. You'll commonly see heavy-gauge galvanized steel or thick, molded polyethylene. These materials resist dents better than thin metal and don't shatter like older plastic models. A key feature is the use of tamper-resistant fasteners—special bolts that require unique tools to remove, securing the inner liner to the outer shell.
Design is equally crucial. Smooth, rounded surfaces with minimal edges or lips are harder to pry open or snap off. Many incorporate a "monocoat" paint system or are made from colored-through materials, so superficial scratches and graffiti are less noticeable and easier to clean. Openings are often just the right size for trash but too small for easy access to the bag, deterring theft of the liner or setting fires.
However, determined vandalism usually wins. Welds can be ground off, plastic can be melted, and no bin is truly immune to persistent abuse. The real test is in maintenance cycles. A well-maintained system that promptly repairs or replaces damaged units discourages further attacks. In my experience, the bins that hold up best combine robust, simple design with a consistent municipal response. They're not indestructible, but they're significantly more resilient than the standard, flimsy models of the past, buying time and saving repair costs for the city.