Home security is one of the most important concerns for any homeowner or business owner, and door locks play a central role in that protection. Rekeying a lock is a cost-effective way to maintain security without replacing the entire lock hardware. Instead of buying new locks, a locksmith simply changes the internal pins so that old keys no longer work, giving you peace of mind and fresh access control.
Many people consider rekeying after moving into a new property, losing a key, or dealing with a change in tenants. But before deciding, it helps to know the costs involved and what factors can influence the price. This guide breaks down how much does it cost to rekey a door lock, the benefits, the key factors that affect pricing, and situations when rekeying is the best choice.
So How Much Does it Cost to Rekey a Door Lock?
The cost to rekey a door lock typically ranges between $40 and $100 per lock, depending on the type of lock, its complexity, and your location. On top of that, locksmiths usually charge a service call fee of $30 to $100 to cover travel and labor, which makes the total price higher if you’re rekeying just one lock.
Standard locks are on the lower end of the range, while high-security or smart locks can cost more due to specialized tools or systems. If you have several locks to rekey, many locksmiths offer package deals that bring down the average cost per lock.
Key Benefits of Rekeying a Door Lock
1. Improved Security at Lower Cost
Rekeying guarantees that old keys no longer work, making it one of the most affordable ways to secure your home or business without replacing the entire lock system.
2. Retains Existing Hardware
You keep the same lock hardware, which means no need to change the door’s appearance or drill new holes. This is especially useful if you have decorative or high-quality locks already installed.
3. Quick and Convenient Process
A locksmith can rekey most locks within minutes, saving time compared to a full lock replacement. This makes it a practical option for busy homeowners and property managers.
4. Flexible Key Control
Rekeying gives you complete control over who has access to your property. It’s the easiest way to confirm that lost, stolen, or unreturned keys no longer pose a security risk.
5. Cost-Effective for Multiple Locks
If you own several locks, rekeying them all to use a single key can be more affordable and convenient than replacing each lock individually.
6. Ideal for Life Changes
Rekeying is the best option after moving into a new home, managing rental properties, or going through major life transitions such as divorce or roommate changes.
Factors That Affect the Cost of Rekeying a Door Lock
1. Number of Locks to Be Rekeyed
The more locks you need to rekey, the higher the total cost. However, many locksmiths offer package deals or bulk discounts, which can lower the average cost per lock. Rekeying multiple locks at once is often more cost-effective than doing them separately.
2. Type of Lock
- Standard locks: The most affordable and simplest to rekey.
- High-security locks: Require special tools or proprietary key systems, making the process more expensive.
- Smart locks: Some can be rekeyed like traditional locks, but others may require electronic resetting or specialized handling, adding to the cost.
3. Locksmith Service Call Fees
Most locksmiths charge a flat service fee for coming to your location in addition to the per-lock rekeying cost. This fee covers travel and basic labor, and it usually ranges between $30 and $100 depending on the provider.
4. Time of Service
Rekeying during standard business hours is usually the cheapest option. If you need emergency or after-hours service, such as late at night, on weekends, or holidays, expect to pay higher rates.
5. Geographic Location and Market Rates
Your location also influences the price. In larger cities or high-cost areas, locksmith services tend to be more expensive compared to smaller towns or rural regions, where market rates are lower.
When You Should Consider Rekeying
- Moving into a new home makes certain that previous owners, builders, or real estate agents no longer have access.
- Lost or stolen keys – prevent unauthorized entry using missing keys.
- After a break-in or security scare, it restores safety and peace of mind.
- Changing tenants in a rental property gives new tenants exclusive access while keeping existing hardware.
- Upgrading to a master key system allows multiple locks to be opened with one key for convenience.
- Business or office staff changes protect company property when employees leave.
- Consolidating multiple keys into one simplifies access by rekeying all locks to a single key.
FAQs on Rekeying Costs
How long does rekeying take?
A locksmith can usually rekey a single lock in about 10–20 minutes. If you have multiple locks, the process may take an hour or more, depending on the complexity.
Is it cheaper to rekey or replace?
Rekeying is generally cheaper because it only changes the pins inside the lock. Replacing is more expensive since it involves buying new hardware and installation, but it may be necessary if the lock is damaged or outdated.
Can all locks be rekeyed?
Most standard pin-and-tumbler locks can be rekeyed. However, some high-security or electronic smart locks may require specialized tools, professional handling, or complete replacement.
Do landlords need to rekey between tenants?
In many regions, landlords are required or strongly advised to rekey locks when tenants move out. This ensures new tenants have exclusive access and enhances property security.
Wrapping Up
How much does it cost to rekey a door lock is a common question for homeowners and business owners who want better security without replacing their hardware. On average, you can expect to pay $40 to $100 per lock, plus a service call fee, with costs varying based on lock type, number of locks, and location. It’s a smart choice when moving into a new home, after losing keys, or when managing rental properties. Overall, rekeying offers peace of mind, convenience, and strong protection at a fraction of the cost of full lock replacement.
