If you're a fan of 'Junkyard Empire' (2015), the reality series that dives into the high-stakes world of salvaging and flipping junk into treasure, you'll love this list of similar shows and movies. From gritty salvage operations to creative upcycling, we've curated 10 titles that capture the same thrill of turning trash into cash. Whether you're into the business side, the craftsmanship, or the drama, there's something here for every 'Junkyard Empire' enthusiast.

Pawn Stars (2009)
Description: This series highlights the buying and selling of unique and often historical items, with a strong emphasis on the stories behind the objects and their restoration potential.
Fact: The Gold & Silver Pawn Shop in Las Vegas, featured in the show, is a real business that has been family-owned for decades.


Hardcore Pawn (2010)
Description: This series showcases the daily operations of a busy pawn shop, where unique and sometimes bizarre items come through the doors, each with its own story and potential value.
Fact: The shop, American Jewelry and Loan, is one of the largest pawn shops in the U.S. and is located in Detroit, Michigan.


Auction Hunters (2010)
Description: The show follows professional buyers as they bid on storage units, seeking hidden treasures and valuable items, much like the thrill of discovering rare finds in unexpected places.
Fact: The hosts, Allen Haff and Clinton Jones, use their expertise to assess the potential value of items quickly during high-pressure auctions.


Storage Wars (2010)
Description: The show captures the excitement of bidding on abandoned storage units, where buyers hope to find valuable items hidden among the clutter, much like uncovering treasures in a junkyard.
Fact: The original series was inspired by the real-life practice of storage unit auctions, which became popular during the economic downturn.


Counting Cars (2012)
Description: Centers on the restoration and customization of vehicles, with a keen eye for detail and a passion for bringing old, forgotten cars back to life.
Fact: Danny 'The Count' Koker, the star of the show, is a well-known figure in the Las Vegas automotive scene and also owns a motorcycle shop.


Fast N' Loud (2012)
Description: Focuses on the restoration and customization of classic cars, often starting with neglected or abandoned vehicles, transforming them into high-value machines.
Fact: Gas Monkey Garage, the shop featured in the show, has built a reputation for turning around cars in record time, sometimes in just a few days.


Wheeler Dealers (2003)
Description: The show follows the process of buying, fixing, and selling used cars, emphasizing the craftsmanship and ingenuity involved in automotive restoration.
Fact: Originally a British series, it gained international popularity and has featured hosts from different countries over its long run.


American Pickers (2010)
Description: The show revolves around the discovery and acquisition of hidden treasures in junkyards, barns, and garages, focusing on the thrill of finding valuable items in unexpected places.
Fact: The hosts, Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz, travel across the U.S. to uncover rare antiques and collectibles, often negotiating deals with eccentric sellers.


American Restoration (2010)
Description: The show focuses on the meticulous restoration of antique and vintage items, bringing them back to their former glory, much like the process of reviving forgotten treasures.
Fact: Rick Dale and his team often work on items with significant historical value, preserving pieces of Americana for future generations.


Salvage Dawgs (2012)
Description: Focuses on salvaging architectural elements and unique items from old buildings before they are demolished, giving them a new life in creative ways.
Fact: The team from Black Dog Salvage often works against tight deadlines to save items from destruction, adding a sense of urgency to their missions.
