How much does a locksmith cost?
Ashburn, VA

How much does a locksmith cost?

Ashburn, VA

How much does a locksmith cost?

$50 – $150 average service call fee
$50 – $100 average hourly rate (normal business hours)
$150 – $250 average hourly rate (emergency / after hours)

Get free estimates for your project or view our cost guide below:

$50 – $150 average service call fee

$50 – $100 average hourly rate (normal business hours)

$150 – $250 average hourly rate (emergency / after hours)


Get free estimates for your project or view our cost guide below:
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Tara Farmer
Written by
Tara Farmer
Edited by
Kristen Cramer
Fact-checked by
Jennifer Carlson

Average locksmith cost

Hiring a locksmith costs $50 to $100 per hour on average during normal business hours. Emergency locksmith prices average $150 to $250 per hour. Most locksmiths charge a $50 to $150 service call fee in addition to their hourly rate. The cost of a locksmith also depends on the location and type of service.

Average cost of a locksmith - Chart
Average cost of a locksmith - Chart
Average cost of a locksmith
Fee type Average cost
Service call fee / trip fee $50 – $150
Hourly rate $50 – $100 per hour (normal business hours)
$150 – $250 per hour (emergencies / after hours)

  • Most people spend $100 to $300 for locksmith services during normal business hours, while emergency pricing can reach $500 or more.

  • Some locksmiths charge a flat fee per service instead of an hourly rate, but they typically still charge a service call fee, trip fee, or an advertised minimum fee for service.

Get free estimates from locksmiths near you.

Locksmith prices by service type

Home locksmith services cover a wide range of needs, from simple key duplication to advanced security system installations. The table below shows the prices for common services.

Locksmith prices by service type
Service Average cost
Lockout service $75 – $200+
Rekey a house (3 doors) $95 – $270
Change locks $150 – $500 per lock
Deadbolt installation $100 – $350+ per lock
Lock repair, key extraction $50 – $200 per lock
Basic key duplication $5 – $20 per key
Safe opening $150 – $500

Lockout service

Lockout service costs typically range from $75 to $200+, depending on the complexity of the lock, the time of day, and whether it's an emergency. You may pay more if the locksmith has to drill through the existing lock and replace it with a new one.

Closeup of locksmith hands using pick tools to open locked door
Closeup of locksmith hands using pick tools to open locked door

Rekey a house

The cost to rekey a house ranges from $15 to $40 per lock plus a trip fee, or about $95 to $270 total for three doors. Some locksmiths charge a trip fee plus an hourly rate instead. Rekeying involves changing the internal lock mechanism so it works with a new key.

  • Rekey service pricing varies depending on the type of locks and whether you have the key to the existing locks.

  • Rekeying is a cost-effective option if you move into a new home or want to change access without installing new hardware.

Locksmith rekeying a front door lock on house
Locksmith rekeying a front door lock on house

Change locks on a house

The cost for a locksmith to remove an old lock completely and replace it with a new one is $150 to $500+ total, depending on the lock type and brand. Basic doorknob lock changes fall on the low end, while keyless or smart door lock changes cost more.

Consider changing the locks if your current locks are old, damaged, or you want to upgrade to a more secure system.

A locksmith replacing the door lock on a house
A locksmith replacing the door lock on a house

Deadbolt installation

Deadbolt installation costs $100 to $350+ per lock including the trip fee, hardware, and labor. However, the lock type and brand significantly impact the cost. Cylindrical deadbolts are the cheapest and most common for residential locks. Double-cylinder and electronic models cost more than average but offer enhanced security.

Lock repair

If a lock can be repaired safely, the total cost is often lower than rekeying or changing the locks, and you won’t need a new set of keys. Repair costs range from $50 to $250, depending on the type of lock, extent of damage, accessibility, and whether it involves replacement parts.

Safe opening

Opening a safe costs $150 to $500+, depending on the type of safe, the method the locksmith uses, and how long it takes. Prices fall at the high end if the job requires drilling through the safe to get it open. Look for a locksmith near your who specializes in opening safes.

Locksmith opening a safe lock with pick tools
Locksmith opening a safe lock with pick tools

Car locksmith cost

Automotive locksmith services have their own pricing structure due to the specialized knowledge and tools required.

Car locksmith cost by service
Service Typical cost
Car lockout service $60 – $250+
Rekey car ignition $100 – $350+
Rekey car door $50 – $150+ per door
Change locks on a door $200 – $300+ per door
Car key replacement $25 – $500+ per key

Car lockout service

If you're locked out of your vehicle, expect to pay between $60 and $150 for standard service during business hours. Emergency or after-hours service can cost $150 to $250+. The type of vehicle may also impact the price, with commercial vehicles and semi-trucks often costing more.

Auto lockout service locksmith unlocking a car
Auto lockout service locksmith unlocking a car

Cost to rekey a car

The cost to rekey a car door ranges from $50 to $150+, while rekeying the ignition costs about $100 to $350+, depending on the make and model. Rekeying a car involves changing the lock cylinder to work with a new key. While less common than home rekeying, it may be necessary in certain situations.

Change locks on a car

The cost to replace a car lock varies depending on the type of lock, with most locksmiths charging $200 to $300+ per door for the parts and labor. This is typically less than if you take the car to the dealership for lock replacement. Always confirm the locksmith's experience with changing car locks.

Car key replacement

While the cost to copy a basic key ranges from $5 to $20 on average, replacing a lost or damaged car key can be costly, especially for modern vehicles with transponder chips or fobs. These non-traditional keys need to be programmed to sync with your vehicle, so they take more time to replace.

Car key replacement cost by type
Key Type Average cost
Basic key duplication $5 – $20
Mechanical / traditional key $25 – $100
Transponder key $60 – $250
Smart key $150 – $500+

Laser cutting key machine duplicating a car key fob
Laser cutting key machine duplicating a car key fob

Car door lock repair

Repairing a car door lock costs $50 to $300, depending on the type of lock and what's wrong with it. Depending on the level of damage, replacing the lock may be more cost-effective in the long run. Ask an expert locksmith to assess the lock and help you determine the best option.

Locksmith cost factors

Several factors can influence the cost of locksmith services:

Get free estimates from locksmiths near you.
  • Time of day: Services after hours or on weekends are more expensive.

  • Location: Locksmiths in urban areas typically have higher rates than in rural locations. However, customers in rural areas or remote locations outside of a locksmith's service area may pay higher trip fees.

  • Lock type: Electronic and high-security locks cost more to service or install.

  • Lock hardware: If you're installing a new lock, whether it's a fresh installation or an existing lock replacement, the material price for the lock itself plays a significant role in the total cost. Premium lockset hardware may cost $500+ per lock before labor, depending on the type.

  • Job complexity: Services requiring specialized skills, like opening a safe or installing a security system, cost more than simpler tasks like basic key cutting. Worn or damaged locks may take more time and expertise to handle.

  • Urgency: Immediate assistance often comes at a premium, especially if the locksmith's schedule is already full. Some locksmiths charge a higher hourly rate, while others add an additional emergency service fee to their standard price.

  • Day & time: Most locksmiths charge significantly more for services after normal business hours, on weekends, and during holidays.

  • Commercial vs. residential: Commercial locksmith services often cost more than residential services due to the complexity of commercial security systems.

  • Minimums: Most locksmiths have a minimum fee for service, which may vary depending on the season and time of day.

When do you need a locksmith?

While minor tasks like basic key duplication, lock lubrication, or installing simple doorknobs can be DIY-friendly, most situations or projects benefit from professional expertise. Hiring an experienced and trustworthy locksmith is best for situations like:

  • Being locked out of your home or car

  • Discovering your keys are lost or stolen

  • Rekeying or changing locks after moving into a new home

  • Installing new locks for enhanced security

  • Repairing or replacing damaged locks

Locksmith FAQs

Do you need a license to be a locksmith?

Licensing requirements for locksmiths vary by state. Many states require locksmiths to be licensed and bonded, which often involves passing an exam and background check. Always verify that your locksmith is licensed if required in your area.

Can a locksmith make a car key?

Yes, most locksmiths can make car keys, including transponder keys and key fobs. However, some newer car models may require specialized equipment that not all locksmiths possess.

Do I tip a locksmith?

Tipping a locksmith isn't usually expected, but it's appreciated for exceptional service. If you choose to tip, 10% to 15% of the service cost is a good general guideline.

Get free estimates from locksmiths near you.

Is it cheaper to rekey or change the locks?

In most cases, rekeying is cheaper than buying new locks as it's faster and you aren't paying for new hardware. Rekeying is a good option when your locks are in good condition, but you want to change who has access. If your locks are old or damaged, replacing them might be a better long-term investment.

Tips for hiring and getting estimates from locksmith services

When searching for an emergency locksmith near you or other locksmiths near you, be sure to:

  • Stay safe: If you are locked out of your car, home, or office, make sure you are in a safe location to call and wait for the locksmith. Better yet, research and select a qualified local locksmith so you have their contact details on hand before an emergency arises.

  • Check credentials: Verify the locksmith is licensed and insured. Look for active members of relevant professional organizations like The Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA).

  • Get multiple quotes: Compare detailed estimates from at least 3 different locksmiths.

  • Read reviews: Look for feedback from previous customers on websites like Homeguide and Google.

  • Ask about fees: Clarify any additional fees for emergency or after-hours services. Be cautious of an extremely low estimate as it could be a "bait and switch" tactic.

  • Maximize value: Incorporate as many tasks as possible into a single visit, such as having existing keys copied.

Questions to ask a locksmith

Ask these important questions before hiring a locksmith:

  • Are you licensed and insured?

  • Can you provide references?

  • Do you do free on-site estimates?

  • What's your estimated arrival time?

  • Do you charge a service call fee? If so, how much is it?

  • What payment methods do you accept?

  • Do you offer any warranties on your work?

  • Can you provide a written estimate before starting the work?