How much should a locksmith cost? (2025 price guide)
If you don’t know what a locksmith should charge, you’re an easy target for overcharging. Here are the real prices for every common locksmith service in 2025 — so you know exactly what’s fair before anyone arrives.
The golden rule: if the phone quote is under $50, it’s a scam setup
Legitimate locksmiths have real overhead — a vehicle, tools, insurance, a license, and years of training. Nobody can profitably do a lockout job for $19. If you’re quoted less than $50 for any locksmith service, you’re being set up for a bait-and-switch. The real bill will be presented after work begins — and at that point you’re in a very difficult position to negotiate.
Residential locksmith prices
House lockout
Fair price range: $75–$150
A standard residential lockout — where a locksmith picks or bumps your lock to get you inside without damage — should cost between $75 and $150 depending on your location and time of day. Emergency or after-hours service may reach $150–$200, but that premium should be disclosed before the locksmith arrives, not after.
Lock rekey
Fair price range: $50–$100 per lock
Rekeying a lock changes the internal pins so old keys no longer work. It is cheaper than replacing the lock entirely and is a common service after moving into a new home or after losing a key.
Lock replacement
Fair price range: $100–$300 per lock (including hardware)
If a lock needs to be replaced entirely, cost depends heavily on the quality of the lock you choose. A standard deadbolt costs $30–$80 in hardware; a premium lock can run $150+. Labor should be $50–$100 on top of hardware cost.
Automotive locksmith prices
Car lockout
Fair price range: $75–$150
Getting into a locked car without a key should cost $75–$150 for most standard vehicles. Modern cars with sophisticated locking systems may cost slightly more. Anything quoted under $50 on the phone is a red flag.
Car key replacement
Fair price range: $150–$400 depending on key type
Replacing a car key varies enormously by vehicle. A basic key: $150–$200. A key fob or transponder key: $200–$350. A smart key or proximity key for luxury vehicles: $300–$500+. Note that dealerships often charge similar or higher prices.
Commercial locksmith prices
Commercial lockout
Fair price range: $100–$250
Commercial locks are often heavier-duty and more complex than residential locks, justifying a higher price. Emergency commercial lockouts outside business hours may reach $200–$300.
Additional charges to know about
- Service/trip fee: $25–$50 — some locksmiths charge just for coming to your location, separate from labor. Ask about this upfront.
- After-hours premium: $25–$75 additional — legitimate for evenings, weekends, and holidays if disclosed upfront.
- Emergency/same-day fee: $25–$50 additional — reasonable if disclosed before arrival.
What to do if you are quoted more than these prices
First, ask for a full written quote before any work begins. If the locksmith refuses to put a number in writing, that is a red flag. If the quote is significantly higher than the ranges above, ask specifically what is driving the higher cost. A legitimate locksmith will explain clearly. If they cannot or will not justify the price, you have every right to decline and call someone else — even if they have already made the trip to your location.