That's a great question! The price of an urban trash can really depends on its size, material, and intended use. Generally, you'll see a clear price increase as the capacity goes up.
For small residential bins, typically around 30-60 gallons, you might pay anywhere from $20 to $80. These are usually plastic or galvanized steel and are common for homes or small apartments.
Moving up to larger commercial bins, like the 2 to 4 cubic yard containers often seen behind restaurants or apartment buildings, prices jump significantly. You could be looking at $200 to $600 or more per unit. These are heavy-duty, often made from durable plastic or metal.
The largest options, like 6 to 8 cubic yard dumpsters used for construction sites or large complexes, are the most expensive. These can cost well over $1,000. It's important to note that for these large commercial sizes, the price often includes rental and service fees from a waste management company, not just the container itself.
Factors like material (plastic is usually cheaper than metal), lid type, wheel quality, and whether it's standard or bear-proof all affect the final price. So, when comparing, always consider the total cost of ownership, including durability and maintenance.