How much do recycling centers pay per pound for cans and bottles? Currently, state certified recycling centers pay a minimum of $1.66 CRV for aluminum cans; $1.33 CRV for clear PET plastic bottles; $0.58 CRV for HDPE plastic bottles (similar to the large water jugs); and $0.10 CRV for glass bottles.
However, the perceived weight may change when crushing the can as it will be denser. Heft a can in your hand, then crush it and heft it again. It will appear to be heavier to you but check it with a scale and it will weigh the same.