Getting locked out happens to everyone eventually. You pat your pockets, check your bag, and realize with a sinking feeling that your keys are sitting on the kitchen counter—on the other side of a locked door. The immediate question becomes: how much will this mistake cost me?
The truth is, there’s no single answer. The cost of locksmith to open the door varies based on several factors, from the time of day to the complexity of your lock. Understanding these variables can help you budget appropriately and avoid getting overcharged.
Breaking Down the Bill
When you call a locksmith for a lockout, the total cost has three main parts.
Service Call Fee: This covers the locksmith’s time and fuel to reach your location. It’s the baseline charge just for showing up. In most areas, this runs from $50 to $100 during regular business hours.
Labor Costs: The actual work of unlocking your door adds to the total. A straightforward lockout on a standard residential lock might add $30 to $80 in labor charges. More complicated locks demand more time, which increases this portion of the bill.
Additional Charges: These kick in based on timing. Need help at 2 AM on a Sunday? Expect emergency rates that can increase your total by 50% to 100%.
What You’ll Actually Pay
During standard business hours—roughly 8 AM to 6 PM on weekdays—a simple residential lockout typically runs between $75 and $150 total. This assumes you have a standard lock and it can be picked without causing damage.
After-hours service changes the math. Evening calls (6 PM to midnight) often cost $100 to $200, while late-night emergencies (midnight to 8 AM) can push the price to $150 to $250 or more. Weekend and holiday rates usually add a $30 to $75 surcharge to the base price.
The locked out of house locksmith cost also depends heavily on your lock type. High-security locks like Medeco, Mul-T-Lock, or Abloy require different skills and can’t always be picked without drilling. In such cases, you’re looking at $200 to $400+ when factoring in the new lock hardware and installation.
What Affects the Final Cost?
When You Call
Standard daytime rates during the week offer the best value. Once the sun sets or the weekend arrives, rates climb. Holiday lockouts command premium pricing, sometimes doubling the standard rate. If you can wait until Monday morning instead of calling Sunday night, you might save $100 or more.
Your Lock Type
Not all locks respond to picking. Basic residential locks on older homes are generally quick work. Modern deadbolts take longer. Smart locks and high-security cylinders present unique challenges. If your door uses a Schlage Primus or Assa Abloy system, the locksmith price to open door will reflect the added difficulty.
What Needs to Happen
Can the lock be picked, or does it need drilling? A non-destructive entry keeps costs down. Drilling means you’ll pay for lock removal, a new cylinder or full lock set, and installation time. What starts as a $100 lockout can become a $300 project when replacement becomes necessary.
Different Locks, Different Prices
Understanding the price of lock and key services for different lock models helps set realistic expectations.
Standard Pin-Tumbler Locks (Kwikset, basic Schlage): These common residential locks are the most affordable to unlock, typically $75-$150 during regular hours.
Deadbolts: Single-cylinder deadbolts add minimal complexity, while double-cylinder versions take more time. Expect the higher end of standard pricing.
High-Security Locks (Medeco, Mul-T-Lock, Assa Abloy): These require different training and can’t always be picked. The cost to unlock or replace these can reach $200-$400.
Smart Locks: Electronic systems present unique challenges. Some can be bypassed through mechanical overrides, while others require manufacturer involvement or complete replacement. Budget $150-$300+ depending on the brand and situation.
Watch Out for These Red Flags
When you’re locked out and anxious, you’re vulnerable. Knowing the warning signs can save you from a bad experience.
Quotes That Sound Too Good to Be True
If someone quotes you “$15 service call” or “lockout for $19,” be skeptical. No legitimate business can cover their costs at these rates. The goal is to get you to agree, then dramatically increase the price once they arrive. They’ll claim your lock is more complex than expected or add mysterious fees.
No Company Branding
Legitimate locksmiths display clear branding on their vehicles. An unmarked van or personal car raises questions. You want to know exactly who is working on your locks.
Starting Work Without Giving You a Price
A trustworthy locksmith will assess your situation in person and provide a clear quote before beginning work. If someone starts drilling without telling you the cost, stop them immediately. You have the right to know what you’ll pay before authorizing anything.
Cash-Only Operations
While some locksmiths prefer cash, refusing to accept cards entirely is suspicious. It’s harder to dispute charges or leave a paper trail when everything is cash-based.
No Verifiable Business
Search the company online. Do they have a real business address and established web presence? Or just a phone number? Fly-by-night operators often lack physical locations because they’re not invested in their reputation.
How to Get Fair Pricing
You can minimize costs while still getting quality service. Ask for a detailed breakdown before agreeing to work. Inquire about all potential fees—service call, labor, emergency charges, and parts if applicable. A reputable locksmith will answer these questions without hesitation.
Consider calling during business hours if possible. Waiting until Monday morning instead of Sunday evening saves money. If you’re not in immediate danger and have somewhere else to stay, the delay might be worth it.
Verify credentials before hiring anyone. In many states, locksmiths must be licensed. Ask for license numbers and check them. This simple step filters out many scammers.
Get recommendations when you’re NOT locked out. Research reliable locksmiths in your area before an emergency strikes. Save their contact information. This prevents panic-driven decisions when you’re standing outside in the cold.
Planning Ahead Saves Money
How much a locksmith charges to unlock the door depends on when you call, what kind of lock you have, and what the job requires. Budget $75-$150 for standard daytime residential lockouts, but be prepared for higher costs after hours or with complex locks.
Don’t let anxiety drive you toward the cheapest quote. Unusually low prices are almost always bait for scams. Instead, look for licensed locksmiths who offer transparent pricing and clear communication.
The best strategy is preparation. Identify a trusted locksmith before you need one. Keep their number saved. Leave a spare key with a trusted neighbor or family member. Consider a lockbox with a code you can remember.