Locksmiths can be essential in maintaining security or resolving emergency situations, like car or home lockouts. Locksmiths cost varies from $150 on average, but the price can vary depending on where you live. Prices can vary from $50 to 400 depending on the service and when it is performed. We’ll look at the price of a locksmith, and examine what factors affect it.
Locksmith Costs Overview
Locksmiths typically charge $50-$75 an hour or flat rates for jobs. The final cost can vary depending on the following factors.
- Emergency Services: Charges for services at night and on weekends will be higher.
- Electronic locks are much more expensive than manual locks.
- Service Required: Unlocking the car door is different from rekeying your house.
- Trip Fees: There is a standard fee for visits, which may be higher in remote locations.
Locksmith Cost Factors explained
1. Electronic Locks
Installing or replacing electronic locks such as smart-home devices and keypads can be expensive. The cost of a lock can vary widely, depending on its complexity.
| Lock Type | Price range |
| Biometric | $150-$500 |
| Bluetooth | $200-$300 |
| Keypad | $50-$300 |
| The following are examples of RFID tags: | $100-$300 |
| Wi-Fi | $250-$450 |
- The simplest keypads are those that use alphanumeric code.
- Biometric locks are based on fingerprints or physical identification.
- Bluetooth and WiFi locks are controlled remotely by mobile devices.
- RFID locks unlock when the key fob is near.
2. Emergency Services
Lockouts usually occur at unsuitable times. Even though many locksmiths provide after-hours service, the prices are higher on weekends and nights. Emergency locksmith visits can cost $150 to $250 per hour, or an additional fee.
3. Trip Fees
The trip fee for a locksmith is a set amount that can vary depending on the distance, time, and location. Fees may be higher at peak times or weekends as well as in rural or difficult-to-reach locations.
4. Service Type
Locksmith costs are largely determined by the type of service you need. Here are some price ranges that you can expect to see:
Car Locksmith Services
| Service | Price range |
| Car door rekey | $30-$50 per door |
| Car ignition rekey | $50-$150 |
| Car key cutting | $4-$10 |
| Car keypad replacement | $300-$400 |
| Car lockout | $60-$150 |
| Car lock change | $50-$200 per lock |
Residential Locksmith Services
| Service | Price range |
| Change house locks | $50-$200 per lock |
| Deadbolt installation | $40-$75 per door |
| Repairing door locks | $50-$200 |
| Installation of electronic locks | $200-$400 |
| Home lockout | $50-$180 |
| Key duplication | $10-$25 |
| Key Extraction | $50-$200 |
| Open safe | $50-$400 |
| Rekey locks | $70-$160 |
Locksmith Service Costs
The cost of locksmith services varies depending on the level of expertise required.
Change your home locks
Replace locks when you move, lose a key or experience a break in. Master locksmiths can charge as much as $125 an hour for their services. Basic locksmith services are usually $50 to $75 per hour. The cost of a lock can be between $20 and $80, while new lock systems could range between $50 and $300.
Commercial Locksmith Services
Commercial locksmiths charge more because they have to provide greater security. The cost of a business lockout ranges from $70-$200. New lock installations can range between $150-$450, depending on their complexity.
Deadbolt Installation
Deadbolts are an additional layer of security for exterior doors. Prices can vary depending on the type.
- Cylindrical deadbolts: $40-$60
- Cylindrical lever locks: $50-$70
- Mortise locks: $75-$125
Labor costs can add between $40 and $75.
Installing electronic locks
Upgrades to electronic locks can be expensive, costing between $100 and $500 per lock. Smart-home security systems cost up to $2,000 per system.
Key Duplication and Exctraction
Locksmiths can make specialty keys, such as master or two-sided keys, for between $1 and $10. Dealerships can handle smart locks or transponder keys for $75-$400. The cost of key extraction is $50-$200 if a broken key needs to be removed from a lock.
Rekeying Services
Rekeying an Automobile
Locksmiths can rekey car locks for as little as $30 to $50 per lock. Car ignition rekeying costs between $50 and $150.
Rekeying home locks
Rekeying locks can provide homeowners with added peace of mind. This service can cost between $70-$160.
Safe Locksmith Services
Locksmiths charge between $50 and $150 for safe lock replacements. Manually opening a safe can cost $150, but it can go up to $250-$450 with drilling.
Unlocking the House
Emergency calls and lockouts can cost between $50-$180.
DIY Locksmithing Vs. Hiring a Professional
DIY is possible for simple lock installations or changes. Locksmiths are often required for complex jobs.
Professional Locksmiths
Locksmithing is an occupation that requires certification and licensing. Master locksmiths have years of training and are therefore well suited to install high-security locks, without compromising the frame or door. Professional locksmiths can advise you on the most suitable security measures for your home.
Auto locksmiths are the best choice for any auto-related problem, including lockouts. DIY fixes can cause damage to modern cars with electronic locks. Car locks are also complex and require specialized tools.
DIY Locksmith
You may be able replace a lock manually with a screwdriver, or Allen wrench. Rekeying kits are available from $10 to $75, but they require precision and patience.
Why Hire a Locksmith
Locksmiths are needed in certain situations.
- Lockouts at home or in the car
- Keys that are lost or unwanted
- Rekeying or replacement of locks required for a new home
- Upgrade your locks to enhance security
- Broken keys stuck in locks
- Want for a smart home security system
Locksmith Services: Tips to Save Money
Locksmith services are expensive, but there are ways to cut costs:
- Simple DIY door lock replacements and deadbolt installation.
- In remote areas, roadside assistance can help you with car lockouts.
- When possible, rekey your locks instead of replacing them.
- Avoid the morning rush by scheduling during normal business hours.
- Replace keys that have broken in the lock before you use them again.
- If you require multiple services, such as rekeying or deadbolt installations, bundle your services.
- Look up reputable locksmiths in advance to avoid scams.
The Conclusion
Even though locksmith services can be urgent, you still need to be careful who you choose. You can ask family and friends for recommendations in advance so that you know who to call in case of an emergency. Make sure the locksmith you choose is licensed, insured (if applicable in your state), has good customer reviews and is insured.
A reputable locksmith will not only provide quality work, but also peace of mind knowing that your car or home is safe. Plan ahead to avoid headaches in the future. Save the contact information of a trusted locksmith for when you are in need.
This article was written by an expert at Unico Locksmith. Unico Locksmith is your local Maryland locksmith that specializes on commercial and residential lock change, re-key services, automotive locksmith service, and locksmith qualified emergency. Contact Unico Locksmith to get the best emergency locksmith Lanham MD today!
