Locksmith pricing guide
Typical ranges for every job we do, what changes the number, and how to get the total before anyone drives out.
Short answer: Most lockouts cost $75 to $175, most car keys $75 to $500 depending on the key, and a whole-house rekey $120 to $250. These are typical ranges, not a quote: every job is quoted as a total on the phone before anyone drives out.
Typical price ranges
Ranges reflect what these jobs commonly cost across the Bay Area. Your total depends on the lock or key type, the time of day, the distance and any parts.
| Job | Typical range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Trip / service call | $50 – $100 | Included in every total; higher after hours and for longer distances |
| Car lockout | $75 – $150 | Luxury vehicles and late-night calls sit above |
| House or apartment lockout | $75 – $175 | High-security cylinders add to it |
| Business lockout | $100 – $250 | Depends on hardware |
| Lock rekey | $20 – $40 per cylinder + trip | Keys extra; whole house typically $120 – $250 |
| Deadbolt installed | $100 – $250 | Includes standard hardware; fresh bore-out extra |
| Smart lock installed (you supply) | $100 – $250 | Supply-and-fit depends on model |
| High-security cylinder | $150 – $400 each | Restricted keys priced per key |
| Lock repair | $75 – $200 | Replacement quoted alongside when it is the better option |
| Basic car key cut | $75 – $150 | Mechanical keys, older vehicles |
| Transponder key | $150 – $300 | Cut and programmed on site |
| Smart key / proximity fob | $250 – $500+ | Varies widely by make |
| Fob programming (your fob) | $75 – $200 | Correct part required |
| Broken key extraction | $75 – $150 | Door or ignition |
| Ignition repair / replace | $150 – $400+ | Keyed to match where possible |
| Mailbox lock replaced | $60 – $120 | Includes two keys |
| Safe opening | $150 – $500+ | Depends on safe type and lock |
What moves the price
- Time of day. Nights, weekends and holidays carry a higher trip charge.
- Lock and key type. A high-security cylinder or a smart key costs more than a standard one because the parts and equipment do.
- Distance. The trip charge rises with distance from the van's current area.
- Parts. Hardware you supply is fitted for labour only; hardware supplied is itemised on the receipt.
How to avoid the bait-and-switch
The classic scam is a "$15 service call" that becomes $300 on site because "the lock had to be drilled". Ask for the total, not the service fee, get the company name, and refuse drilling that is not explained. The safety checklist covers the rest, and the guide what locksmith service really costs explains where the money goes.
Frequently asked questions
Why is the price a range and not a number?
Because the lock type, the hour and the distance change the job. You get an exact total on the phone once you describe your situation.
Is the phone quote the final price?
Yes, unless something on site is genuinely different from what was described, and in that case it is explained before any extra work is done.
Is there a minimum charge?
The trip charge is the minimum and is included in every total. It covers getting a fully equipped van to your location.
Do you charge more at night?
After-hours, weekend and holiday calls carry a higher trip charge. The total you are quoted already includes it.
How do I get an exact price?
Call (408) 418-0044 and describe the situation, your exact location and what you need. Timing is confirmed on that call rather than promised in advance, and you get the total before any work begins.
Need a locksmith at your location?
Call with your exact location and what you need. You get a straight answer and the total before any work begins.