In my experience, the most overwhelmingly popular color for residential outdoor trash cans is a simple, practical dark green or dark brown. These earthy, neutral tones are not chosen by accident. They serve a key purpose: discretion. These colors help the bins blend with natural surroundings like shrubs, fences, or the shadows beside a house, making them less visually obtrusive in your yard or at the curb.
While black is also very common—especially for standard-issue municipal bins—the darker greens and browns have a slight edge for purchased cans because they show less dust and superficial scuff marks than pure black. Homeowners often prioritize function and subtlety. Bright colors like beige or light gray, though available, are less popular as they show dirt and weathering more easily and can become an eyesore.
Ultimately, the "popular" choice is driven by a desire for the bin to be unnoticed. It's a functional item, not a decorative one. People want a color that is durable, hides wear, and doesn't draw attention. So, while you'll see the full spectrum, the reliable, fade-into-the-background dark green or brown is the consistent winner for a reason. It’s the practical choice that balances aesthetics with the mundane reality of waste disposal.