How Much Does It Cost to Change a Lock?
Normal range: $130 - $220
Changing a door lock costs around $315 in most cases, but prices can sit as low as $45 or as high as $500, depending mostly on the level of security you need.
If your gut is urging you to change your door locks, just do it. New, upgraded locks provide extra safety and comfort by knowing your home is protected. Changing a door lock costs between $45 and $500, including the door hardware and labor. However, specific costs will vary based on door type, the number of locks installed, and additional lock features.
- Average
- $315
- Low end
- $45
- high end
- $500
How Much Does a Door Lock Cost?
The average cost for new locks can range between $40 and $800 for the hardware alone. Homeowners can choose from everything from basic key locks to electronic smart locks. Generally, the lock's durability and its features will determine the cost.
Hiring a pro to install new door locks can add an average of $75 per hour to your project cost, depending on their labor rate and the complexity of the installation.
Factors That Influence the Cost to Change a Lock
When researching a door lock replacement cost, the type of lock, and whether you replace or re-key it matters. Standard locks available at most hardware stores are significantly less expensive than high-end ones with added security features.
Installation and Labor
Expect most of your budget to go toward installation fees. According to HomeAdvisor, a professional locksmith charges an hourly fee between $50 and $100 to change a lock, or $75 per hour on average. Other locksmiths may charge per project based on the number of locks, type of locks, and complexity of the installation process.
Additional fees may apply if you need a locksmith to change a broken or busted lock "after hours" due to an emergency. After-hours rates range from $75 to $125. An emergency trip charge ranging between $100 and $150 may also apply.
Lock Grade
Not all locks are created equal; the higher the grade, the more durable the dock and the higher the price tag. The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association (BHMA) grade locks based on operation, strength, cycle length, security, material evaluation, and finish. The rating lets buyers know how many cycles they can expect from a lock.
When shopping for door lock prices, pay attention to grades to figure out how long your new locks will last. Here's the breakdown:
| Lock Grade | Durability in cycles |
|---|---|
| Grade 1 | 800,000 |
| Grade 2 | 400,000 |
| Grade 3 | 200,000 |
Exterior or Interior Door Locks
Most interior door knobs range from $15 to $60, and your choice usually comes down to appearance rather than security. An inexpensive Grade 3 lock is enough to prevent nuisance entries into bedrooms and bathrooms. Replacing interior locks is a simple DIY job, so you can save on labor. Plus, you can increase interior door security without changing the handles by installing a keyless door reinforcement lock, which costs around $15.
Exterior door locks should be at least a Grade 2, which offers more security. Your exterior hardware options start at around $40 and go up to several hundred dollars for the locks adorned with extra features like deadbolts, keypads, keyless entry, and remote controls.
Door Lock Features
As you move from basic door locks to smart locks, deadbolts, or locks with special Bluetooth connectivity, your price will rise. Deadbolts have added metal bolts for security, while electronic locks feature a keypad in addition to the lock. Keyless locks ditch the keys altogether and require a number code or a fob to open the door. Smart locks allow you to open or lock your doors remotely, set times when locks open automatically, and share keys digitally.
Rekeying or Replacing Locks
Rekeying locks is not the same as changing. To rekey a lock, your locksmith will rearrange the pins in the cylinder to disable an old key and enable a new key. Rekeying is a quicker job, so it’s cheaper than a replacement, roughly $75 per hour.
Door Lock Cost by Type
Locks that offer extra security with special features tend to be more expensive than standard locks. Here's a look at some basic lock rates:
Knob Lock: $40–$80
Deadbolt: $40–$200
Keyless Lock: $50–$300
Electronic Lock: $100–$350
Smart Lock: $200–$800
How Much Does It Cost to Install a Lock Yourself?
The cost to change a lock yourself adds up to the lock hardware itself (see above prices). You can install a basic knock or deadbolt with just a screwdriver or an electric drill.
Your choice to DIY this project may come down to the type of lock you choose. You can install a basic knock or deadbolt with just a screwdriver or an electric drill. But if you opt for a smart or electronic lock, you may want to hire a reputable locksmith to handle the installation, so you don’t compromise its effectiveness.
Some smart locks even require professional installation as part of the warranty. Find the lock you want, and then determine if you need a locksmith to help with the installation.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Locksmith?
The cost of hiring a locksmith will depend on the job you want done but generally ranges from $50 to $200. You can expect to pay more for an emergency service, like unlocking your house or car ASAP, or at peak times. The type of lock you’re working with will also play a factor in the price. Changing and rekeying locks are some of the most common services, with the latter being the less expensive option.
Frequently Asked Questions
The cost to rekey locks on your home is $40 to $100 plus $15 to $40 per lock. Rekeying means you can keep your existing locks but simply change the key. You’ll still need a pro to cut a new key and rekey the lock, but no new hardware is required. Rekeying is a good option if:
You need a quick way to upgrade your current locks
You have a quality lock that works well
You recently moved in and want to ensure you’re the only one with access
You lost a key
Yes, most pros encourage you to change your locks when you move into a new home. While the previous owner may hand you their keys, you have no way of knowing whether other copies exist elsewhere. Changing your locks as soon as you move in is a great way to ensure that you can enjoy new, fully functioning locks that will work with your unique key or code.
Security experts recommend deadbolt door locks on entry doors because they provide the best security. Deadbolts can prevent most types of forced entry and make your doors harder to lockpick.
Locksmiths recommend changing your locks once every seven years for the best security at your home. Locks can wear out over time, so you should inspect your locks regularly. A higher grade lock provides you with more cycles than those with a lower grade.
Many insurance providers offer policy discounts when adding security features to your home. The best way to find out if new locks will reduce your premium is to simply ask your agent.