Getting locked out of an apartment or needing to change locks is one of those situations that feels urgent and confusing at the same time. Many people first check guides like handy tips to Improve Your Home Security before calling a locksmith, but in reality, you need fast help and a clear understanding of costs. In 2025, locksmith prices depend on the service type, time of day, and lock style. Knowing these factors helps you avoid unnecessary charges.
Apartment locksmith services generally include lockout assistance, rekeying, full lock replacement, and smart lock installation. Each of these services has a different cost range. Before discussing the differences, let’s look at what most renters and homeowners should expect to pay in 2025.
2025 Apartment Locksmith Pricing (Quick Price Table)
Emergency calls are always more expensive because locksmiths operate outside standard hours. In many areas, even places like Residential locksmith in Garland TX late-night service fees remain higher due to immediate dispatch needs.
| Service Type | Average Price (2025) | What It Includes |
| Lockout (Day Hours) | $70 – $180 | Trip + door unlock |
| Lockout (Emergency) | $150 – $350 | After-hours call-out |
| Rekey (Per Lock) | $20 – $50 | Labor to reset lock pins |
| Rekey Full Door | $60 – $120 | 1–2 locks + new keys |
| Lock Change Standard | $80 – $200 | Hardware + installation |
| Smart Lock Install | $100 – $250 | Setup/programming |
Prices tend to be higher in major cities like New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles, while smaller cities may fall closer to the average range. Emergency calls are always more expensive because locksmiths operate outside standard hours, often at late night or weekends.
Now that you’ve seen the cost overview, let’s explore what each service includes.
Different Apartment Locksmith Services and Their Costs
Locksmith work is not a single fixed service. A simple lockout, a full lock replacement, and a smart lock installation each require different skills and tools. Many apartment residents only discover these differences after reading guides like 7 Common Reasons People Call Locksmiths in Texas.
Lockout Service The Most Common Call
Lockouts happen when someone loses their keys, forgets them inside, or the door locks automatically. Many apartment residents search for fast help through services like Residential Locksmith in DFW when facing urgent lockouts, especially during busy weekdays. For daytime lockouts, locksmiths use non-destructive entry, costing $70–$180 depending on the city and time.
Emergency lockouts are priced differently. If the call comes late at night, during weekends, or on holidays, the cost can range from $150 to $350. These prices include travel, verification of identity, and unlocking the door. Emergency work is more expensive because locksmiths must be available on short notice and often travel outside normal working hours.
Rekeying the Lock The Affordable Security Option
Rekeying is the best-value option when the lock is still functional. The locksmith adjusts internal pins so old keys stop working. This is popular when moving apartments or improving security, especially after reading comparisons like What Is the Difference Between Rekeying and Changing Locks?.
In 2025, the average cost to rekey a lock is $20 to $50 per lock, plus $5 to $25 per new key copy, which makes the total for a front door with a deadbolt and knob between $60 and $120. Rekeying is especially useful because it gives the same level of security as replacing the lock while avoiding the cost of hardware. It is recommended in situations like new tenant move-in or a roommate leaving the property.
When rekeying makes sense:
- The lock is working properly and not damaged
- You only want to change keys for security reasons
Replacing the Lock When Hardware Needs to Change
If the lock is damaged, outdated, or does not meet the security standards of the building, the locksmith will recommend a full lock replacement. Replacing a standard apartment lock in 2025 generally costs between $80 and $200 per lock, including both hardware and installation. The price differs based on the type of lock. A basic deadbolt is much cheaper than a high-security cylinder lock with anti-pick features.
For high-security locks, such as Grade-1 deadbolts, the cost may rise to $150 to $300 per lock, depending on the brand. These locks are designed to resist drilling, bumping, and forced entry. Full replacement is the right choice when locks are worn, keys are stolen, or there is a need to improve security.
Lock replacement takes more time than rekeying because the locksmith has to remove the existing hardware, install a new lock system, ensure the door frame alignment is correct, and test the locking mechanism.
Smart Lock Installation Modern, Keyless Access
Smart locks have become a major trend in 2025 as apartment renters look for keyless entry, app control, and guest access options. Smart locks allow you to unlock the door using a code, smartphone, or digital card, which reduces the risk of losing keys and provides better control over who can enter your apartment.
The cost of a smart lock installation has two parts: the hardware price and labor cost. Smart lock hardware usually ranges from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the brand, features, and connectivity. Locksmith installation and setup typically cost $100 to $250. Some installations may involve adjusting the door frame or drilling additional holes.
Smart lock installation is ideal for people who want modern access or share apartments with others, such as roommates or short-term visitors.
What Affects Locksmith Pricing in 2025?
Two people can call a locksmith for the same issue and get two different prices, which confuses many. However, the difference usually comes from these predictable factors: timing, location, lock type, and hardware brand.
The most influential factor is time of day. A lockout during 11 AM on a weekday costs significantly less than a lockout at 2 AM on a Sunday. After-hours service includes an emergency call-out fee because locksmiths must be available outside standard work schedules.
Apartment type matters too. A locksmith working in a high-rise building may charge slightly more because access from the street to the apartment door is slower due to security desks, elevators, and parking restrictions. In small buildings or ground-floor units, access is faster and often cheaper.
The type of lock is another key driver. A simple entry lock or basic deadbolt is easier to unlock or replace. In contrast, high-security locks, digital locks, and smart locks require more skill, tools, and time, which increases the total price. Modern apartment buildings today often include digital access systems, so prices are trending higher overall.
Finally, the brand and hardware quality matter. A $45 basic lock and a $280 premium lock both serve the same purpose, but their pricing reflects durability, anti-pick features, drill resistance, and build quality.
Rekey vs Replace Which Option is Better?
Choosing between rekeying and replacing depends on whether the lock is in good condition and what type of security upgrade you want. Rekeying is usually the better choice when the lock mechanism is fully functional, and the only goal is to change the keys. It is faster and more economical.
Replacing the lock is the better solution when the lock is damaged, old, unreliable, or fails to provide the security level needed in an apartment environment. Tenants in major cities often choose to upgrade their locks to improve safety.
To simplify the comparison, here’s a short overview:
| Option | Average Cost | Best Scenario |
| Rekey | $60–$120 | New tenant / lost keys |
| Replace | $80–$200 | Damaged or outdated hardware |
| Smart Lock | $200–$500+ | Modern keyless convenience |
(Rekey vs Replace Table included cleanly)
Who Pays Tenant or Landlord?
The cost responsibility depends on the lease agreement and the situation. In most rental contracts, the tenant pays for accidental lockouts or lost keys. The landlord pays for broken locks, rekeying during move-in, and building-required security upgrades. Smart lock upgrades that are optional are usually paid by the tenant unless the building management encourages the upgrades.
If someone is unsure, it’s best to check the rental contract first or contact the building management. Some properties even have a preferred locksmith with negotiated rates.
Final Summary
In 2025, the cost of a locksmith for an apartment depends on the time of day, lock condition, building type, and service required. Standard lockout services usually range from $70 to $180, while emergency calls can cost $150 to $350. Rekeying remains the most affordable option, typically costing $60 to $120, while full lock replacements range between $80 and $200 per lock. Smart lock installations are becoming more common in apartments, with costs between $200 and $500+, depending on features.
If the lock is working fine and only key security is the concern, rekeying is the best option. When a lock is damaged, outdated, or you want better protection, replacement is worth the cost. Smart locks offer additional convenience and control for renters in modern buildings.
FAQs
1. How much does a locksmith cost for an apartment lockout?
A standard apartment lockout in 2025 costs $70 to $180, while emergency call-outs during nights or weekends range between $150 and $350, depending on the city.
2. Is rekeying cheaper than replacing a lock?
Yes. Rekeying typically costs $60 to $120, while a full lock replacement costs $80 to $200, including hardware.
3. Why are emergency locksmith services more expensive?
Emergency work requires locksmiths to be available outside normal business hours and respond quickly, which includes an after-hours fee.
4. Can a locksmith make a new key without replacing the lock?
Yes. Locksmiths can rekey the lock to disable old keys while creating new ones, without changing the hardware.
