How much does it cost to change locks?
How much does it cost to change locks?
$35 – $150 per lock
$80 – $225 per door (full replacement)
$100 – $300 per door (rekeying)
Average Cost to Change Locks
Changing locks on a home costs $35 to $150 per lock, with most homeowners paying around $95. The total price depends on whether you're replacing the entire lock or simply rekeying it, the type of lock you choose, and whether you hire a locksmith or do it yourself. For a full lock replacement, expect to pay $80 to $225 per door, including parts and labor. Rekeying is less expensive at $100 to $300 per door when you factor in the service call fee.
| Service | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Lock change (typical range) | $35 – $150 |
| Full lock replacement (per door) | $80 – $225 |
| Rekeying (per door) | $100 – $300 |
| Smart/electronic lock installation | $75 – $350+ |
| Locksmith service call fee | $60 – $140 |
| Locksmith hourly rate | $50 – $100 |
| Emergency locksmith service call | $130 – $240 |
Whether you've just moved into a new home, lost your keys, or want to upgrade your security, changing locks is one of the most practical and affordable home improvements you can make. Understanding the costs involved helps you budget effectively and choose the right option for your situation.
Lock replacement vs. rekeying
There are two main approaches to changing your locks: full replacement and rekeying. Replacing a lock means removing the entire lockset (including the handle, knob, and all internal hardware) and installing a brand new one. Rekeying modifies the internal pins of your existing lock so that a new key operates it and the old keys no longer work.
| Method | What's Involved | Average Cost per Door |
|---|---|---|
| Full lock replacement | Remove old lockset, install new hardware | $80 – $225 |
| Rekeying | Modify internal pins, cut new keys | $100 – $300 |
| Smart lock upgrade | Install electronic or keypad lock | $75 – $350+ |
When to replace your locks
Full replacement is the better choice when your existing locks are old, damaged, or no longer functioning properly. It's also the right move if you want to upgrade to a higher-security lock or switch to a different style, such as moving from a basic knob lock to a deadbolt.
Replacing locks also makes sense if you want to install smart locks with keypad entry, Bluetooth connectivity, or remote access through a smartphone app. These electronic systems eliminate the risk of being locked out and can be reprogrammed without calling a locksmith.
When to rekey your locks
Rekeying is ideal when your current locks are in good working condition but you simply want to ensure old keys no longer work. This is common after moving into a new home, ending a relationship, or losing a set of keys.
Since rekeying doesn't require purchasing new hardware, it is typically the less expensive option. A locksmith can also rekey multiple locks to work with a single key, which is a convenient upgrade if your home currently uses different keys for different doors.
If you have multiple doors with the same brand of lock, a locksmith can rekey all of them to match a single key. This is often included in the rekeying service at no additional charge per lock beyond the standard fee.
Cost to change locks by lock type
The type of lock you choose is one of the biggest factors in the total cost. Basic cylinder locks and deadbolts are affordable, while mortise locks and smart locks cost significantly more. The lock type also affects labor time, since some locks require more complex installation.
| Lock Type | Hardware Cost (Materials Only) | Installed Cost (With Labor) |
|---|---|---|
| Cylinder lock | $15 – $90 | $75 – $200 |
| Deadbolt lock | $20 – $110 | $80 – $225 |
| Mortise lock | $60 – $400+ | $120 – $500+ |
| Interior knob lock | $15 – $50 | $60 – $150 |
| Exterior lockset | $80 – $200+ | $140 – $350 |
| Smart/electronic lock | $75 – $350+ | $135 – $450+ |
Cylinder locks
Cylinder locks are the most common residential lock type. They use a pin-tumbler mechanism inside a cylindrical housing and are found on both interior and exterior doors. Hardware costs range from $15 to $90, making them an affordable option for most homeowners.
Deadbolt locks
Deadbolts provide a higher level of security than standard cylinder locks because the bolt extends deeper into the door frame. They are a staple on front doors and other exterior entry points. Materials cost $20 to $110 depending on the grade and brand.
Mortise locks
Mortise locks fit into a rectangular pocket (mortise) cut into the edge of the door. They are more durable and complex than standard locks, which is why they cost $60 to $400+ for hardware alone. Installation takes longer and requires more skill, so labor costs are higher as well.
Smart and electronic locks
Smart locks offer keyless entry through keypads, fingerprint scanners, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi connectivity. Prices for the hardware range from $75 to $350+. While some homeowners install smart locks themselves, professional installation ensures proper alignment and connectivity with your home's smart systems.
Cost by door type
Interior and exterior doors have different security requirements, which directly affects the cost of changing locks. Exterior doors need stronger, weather-resistant hardware built to deter break-ins, while interior doors typically use simpler, lighter mechanisms.
| Door Type | Typical Lockset Cost (Materials Only) |
|---|---|
| Interior door | $15 – $50 |
| Exterior door (front, back, side) | $80 – $200+ |
Interior door locks are usually simple privacy knobs or passage sets, commonly used for bedrooms and bathrooms. These are inexpensive and quick to install or replace.
Exterior doors, including front, back, and side entries, require heavier-duty hardware. Many homeowners opt for a combination of a deadbolt and a handle lockset on exterior doors for maximum security, which adds to the overall cost.
Locksmith labor costs
Most locksmiths charge a service call fee of $60 to $140 to come to your home. This fee typically covers up to one hour of work. If the job takes longer, expect to pay an additional $50 to $100 per hour. Changing a single lock usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, so one service call can often cover multiple locks.
| Labor Component | Cost |
|---|---|
| Service call fee | $60 – $140 |
| Hourly rate (beyond first hour) | $50 – $100 |
| Emergency/after-hours service call | $130 – $240 |
Because the service call fee is a fixed cost regardless of the number of locks, changing multiple locks at the same time is more cost-effective than scheduling separate visits. If you need four or five locks changed, the per-lock cost drops significantly when done in a single appointment.
If you need a locksmith on nights, weekends, or holidays, the service call fee can jump to $130 to $240. Whenever possible, schedule lock changes during regular business hours to avoid these premiums.
Cost factors that affect pricing
Several variables can push the cost of changing locks higher or lower. Understanding these factors helps you get an accurate estimate before hiring a locksmith.
| Factor | Impact on Cost |
|---|---|
| Lock type and quality | Higher-security and smart locks cost more |
| Number of locks | More locks reduce per-unit labor cost |
| Door type | Exterior doors require pricier hardware |
| Travel distance | Remote locations may incur surcharges |
| Time of service | After-hours and emergency calls cost more |
| Lock brand | Premium brands like Medeco or Schlage cost more |
| Existing door condition | Damaged doors may need prep work |
Number of locks
Changing a single lock means you absorb the full service call fee for one lock. If you change three to five locks in the same visit, you spread that fee across multiple locks, reducing the effective per-lock cost to $40 to $75 each in many cases.
Travel distance
Some locksmiths charge additional fees if they have to travel beyond a certain radius, typically 15 to 25 miles. Always ask about travel surcharges upfront, especially if you live in a rural area or don't know where the locksmith's shop is located.
Lock brand and security grade
Residential locks are graded by ANSI/BHMA on a scale of Grade 1 (highest security) to Grade 3 (basic). A Grade 3 lock might cost $15 to $30, while a Grade 1 lock from a brand like Medeco or Mul-T-Lock can cost $100 to $300+ for the hardware alone.
| ANSI/BHMA Security Grade | Security Level | Typical Hardware Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Grade 3 | Basic residential | $15 – $30 |
| Grade 2 | Standard residential/light commercial | $30 – $100 |
| Grade 1 | Highest security (Medeco, Mul-T-Lock) | $100 – $300+ |
Existing door condition
If the door jamb is damaged, the existing lock hole is the wrong size, or additional drilling is needed, the locksmith will charge extra for the prep work. This can add $25 to $75+ to the total cost.
DIY vs. professional lock change
Changing a standard lock yourself can save $60 to $140 in service call fees plus hourly labor charges. However, the savings depend on the complexity of the lock and your comfort level with the installation.
| Approach | Cost per Lock | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| DIY lock replacement | $15 – $200+ (hardware only) | Standard knob and deadbolt swaps |
| Professional locksmith | $80 – $225 (hardware + labor) | All lock types, rekeying, complex installs |
When DIY makes sense
Replacing a standard deadbolt or knob lock is a straightforward project that requires only a screwdriver. Most new locksets come with step-by-step instructions and fit standard door preparations. If you're comfortable with basic tools, this is a viable way to save money.
When to hire a professional
Hire a locksmith for rekeying (which requires specialized tools and training), mortise lock installation, smart lock setup, or situations where the new lock doesn't match the existing door cutout. A professional also ensures the lock is properly aligned for maximum security and smooth operation.
An improperly installed lock can be a security vulnerability. If the bolt doesn't fully extend into the strike plate or the lock is misaligned, it may not withstand forced entry. Professional installation reduces this risk.
Cost to change locks on a new home
Changing all the locks after purchasing a home is a common security measure that typically costs $200 to $600 for a house with three to four exterior doors. This includes the locksmith's service call fee, labor, and new hardware. Rekeying all the locks instead of replacing them can bring the total down to $150 to $400.
| Scenario (3 to 4 Exterior Doors) | Estimated Total Cost |
|---|---|
| Rekey all locks | $150 – $400 |
| Replace all locks (standard) | $200 – $600 |
| Upgrade to smart locks | $400 – $1,200+ |
Since you have no way of knowing how many copies of the previous owner's keys exist, changing or rekeying locks after buying a house is strongly recommended. Former owners may have given keys to neighbors, family members, pet sitters, or contractors over the years.
If the existing locks are in good shape and you're happy with their style, rekeying is the most budget-friendly option. If the locks are worn, outdated, or you want a security upgrade, full replacement is worth the extra cost. Changing the locks is just one item on a thorough home maintenance checklist that new homeowners should complete after moving in.
How to save money on changing locks
There are several practical ways to reduce the cost of changing your locks without sacrificing security.
- Change multiple locks in one visit. Bundling the work into a single service call lets you split the locksmith's trip fee across all the locks.
- Choose rekeying over replacement. If your current locks work fine, rekeying saves money on hardware while still ensuring old keys won't work.
- Buy hardware yourself. Some locksmiths charge a markup on locks. Purchasing your own hardware from a home improvement store can save 10% to 30%.
- Schedule during business hours. Avoid emergency and after-hours surcharges by booking a standard appointment.
- Get multiple quotes. Prices vary between locksmiths, so getting three to four estimates helps you find a competitive rate.
- DIY simple replacements. Standard deadbolt and knob replacements are beginner-friendly projects that can eliminate labor costs entirely.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to change one lock?
Changing a single lock costs $80 to $225 on average when hiring a locksmith, including hardware and labor. The service call fee, typically $60 to $140, makes up a significant portion of the cost for a single lock. DIY replacement costs $15 to $200+ depending on the lock you choose.
Is it cheaper to rekey or replace locks?
Rekeying is almost always cheaper than full replacement since it doesn't require purchasing new hardware. Rekeying costs $100 to $300 per door, while replacement costs $80 to $225 per door. However, if the existing lock is damaged or outdated, replacing it avoids paying for both repair and rekeying.
Should I change locks after buying a house?
Yes. You don't know how many copies of the previous owner's keys are in circulation. Changing or rekeying all exterior locks is a relatively inexpensive security measure that provides peace of mind. Most homeowners spend $150 to $600 to secure all entry points.
How long does it take to change a lock?
A professional locksmith can replace a standard door lock in 15 to 30 minutes. Rekeying takes about 10 to 20 minutes per lock. More complex installations, such as mortise locks or smart locks, may take 30 to 60 minutes per door.
Can I change my locks myself?
Yes, replacing a standard knob lock or deadbolt is a beginner-friendly DIY project. You'll need a screwdriver and about 15 to 30 minutes per lock. However, rekeying, mortise lock installation, and smart lock setup typically require professional expertise or specialized tools.
How much does an emergency locksmith cost?
Emergency locksmith services, including after-hours, weekend, or holiday calls, cost $130 to $240 for the service call fee alone. This is roughly double the standard service call fee of $60 to $140. If possible, schedule non-urgent lock changes during regular business hours to avoid the premium.