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Rekeying locks cost: what pros charge in 2026

By Nicholas Lipari, founder of PlainJob · Updated · 4 min read

Short answer: rekeying usually costs about $15 to $40 per standard lock plus a $50 to $150 service call, so a typical three-door house runs about $95 to $270 (ThePricer, September 2026). Replacing locks averages about $315 per lock.

National figures from the sources listed at the bottom. Local prices vary; use them as a starting point.

What it costs

ItemTypical cost
Per standard cylinder$15–$40
Smart or high-security cylinder$45–$95
Service call fee$50–$150
Three-door house$95–$270
4 to 6 locks$200–$500
Replacing a lock insteadAbout $315 per lock (range $60–$350)

Handyman or licensed pro?

Rekeying is often locksmith work, and a few states license locksmiths. Many handymen rekey with a kit for landlords between tenants; check your state before offering it. Rules vary by state; see handyman license requirements by state.

How to quote it

  1. Ask how many doors and whether the locks are the same brand.
  2. Price per cylinder plus one trip charge.
  3. Sell it with turnover work for landlords.

More prices in the handyman price list.

Sources

Questions

How much does it cost to rekey a house?

About $95 to $270 for a three-door house, or $15 to $40 per lock plus a $50 to $150 service call, according to ThePricer.

Is it cheaper to rekey or replace locks?

Rekeying is usually much cheaper, about $50 to $100 per lock with the service call spread out, versus about $315 per lock to replace.

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