How much does a locksmith cost?
A residential locksmith commonly costs $75 - $200+ for a home lockout, $95 - $270 to rekey several exterior doors, and $100 - $350+ per deadbolt install. Replacing locks or installing smart hardware can cost more because hardware, drilling, alignment, and emergency timing change the job.
Ask for the trip charge, labor, hardware, and after-hours fee before the locksmith starts. A legitimate locksmith should also ask for proof that you are allowed to access the property.
Locksmith costs by job type
House lockout
$75 - $200+How to tellYou are locked out, a key is lost, or the lock will not turn
The fixUnlock the door without damaging the hardware when possible
Rekey existing locks
$95 - $270 for several doorsHow to tellYou moved in, lost keys, or want old keys disabled
The fixChange the lock pins so a new key works with existing hardware
Change locks
$150 - $500 per lock when hardware and labor are includedHow to tellOld hardware is worn, low quality, mismatched, or damaged
The fixRemove and replace knobs, levers, deadbolts, or cylinders
Deadbolt or smart lock installation
$100 - $400+ depending on hardware and prepHow to tellA door needs better security, new prep, or connected access
The fixInstall and align hardware, then test latch throw and strike plate fit
Before you book a locksmith
- Count every exterior door and lock cylinder before calling. A knob and deadbolt on the same door may be two cylinders.
- Ask whether rekeying is enough. If the lock hardware is in good condition, rekeying is usually cheaper than replacing everything.
- Ask for a written estimate that separates service call, labor, parts, emergency surcharge, and tax.
- Have proof of residence or authorization ready. A locksmith should not open or rekey a home without verifying access.
Unlock the hiring checklist
Use this before you call a locksmith, so you know what to ask and what to avoid.
Call a pro when…
- You are locked out and a hidden spare, landlord, family member, or garage entry will not solve it safely
- A key broke inside the lock
- A door will not latch or deadbolt fully
- You just moved in and do not know who has old keys
- You want smart lock, keypad, or deadbolt hardware installed cleanly
Rekey, repair, or replace?
Rekey when the existing lock works well but you need old keys disabled. Repair when the latch, cylinder, or strike alignment is the issue and the hardware is still worth keeping. Replace when hardware is worn, damaged, low security, mismatched, or you want a keypad, smart lock, or stronger deadbolt. The expensive mistake is replacing every lock when rekeying would have solved the access problem.
Need a cleaner scope before you call around?
Use the locksmith checklist to compare the same work, questions, cleanup, and warranty before choosing a local company.
Related questions
Why do locksmith prices vary so much?
The service call, time of day, travel distance, lock type, door condition, and hardware choice all matter. A weekday rekey is not the same job as an after-hours lockout or a smart lock install on a misaligned exterior door.
Is it cheaper to rekey or replace locks?
Rekeying is usually cheaper when the hardware is in good condition. Replacement costs more because you are paying for new hardware plus installation.
Should a locksmith quote a price over the phone?
They should quote the service call, common labor range, and likely parts range. Some final pricing depends on the actual lock and door condition, but vague bait-and-switch pricing is a red flag.
Do locksmiths install smart locks?
Many do. Ask whether they handle both the physical lock fit and app/keypad setup, and whether the door alignment is included if the deadbolt does not throw smoothly.