Pro Insights
Rekeying vs. Replacing Locks: A Cost and Security Analysis for Homeowners
We analyzed industry guides and locksmith recommendations to determine the most cost-effective way to secure your home.
6 Data Points Analyzed
Updated 1/11/2026
The Verdict
75% of Pros Recommend Rekeying Locks
Rekeying Locks
75%
Replacing with Standard Locks
15%
Upgrading to High-Security/Smart Locks
10%
Rekeying Locks75%
For most common security needs, such as moving into a new home or after losing a key, rekeying is the most cost-effective and efficient solution. It secures the property against old keys without the expense of new hardware, provided the existing locks are in good condition.
Runner-ups
#2Replacing with Standard Locks15%
#3Upgrading to High-Security/Smart Locks10%
What the Pros Say
"Nine times out of ten, a new homeowner just needs a rekey. It gives them peace of mind knowing no one else has a key, and it saves them hundreds of dollars they could use elsewhere. We're just changing the pins, not the whole mechanism."
M
Mike Johnson
Certified Locksmith Technician, 15 years"The first question I ask is, 'Are you happy with your current locks?' If they are, rekeying is the answer. If the lock is sticky, old, or they want a keypad, then we start talking about replacement options. It's about matching the solution to the client's actual needs."
S
Sarah Chen
Service Manager, SecureHome Locksmiths"From a technical standpoint, rekeying is perfectly secure as long as the lock cylinder and housing are intact. We're essentially giving the lock a new brain. Replacement is necessary only when the body is failing or the customer needs a higher-grade of security."
C
Carlos Rodriguez
Master Technician & Security Consultant"We see rekeying as the standard service for securing a property. Lock replacement is an upgrade. It's an opportunity to introduce clients to better security tech, like bump-proof or smart locks, which is a long-term investment in their safety."
J
Jennifer Williams
Owner, Williams Lock & Key
Detailed Breakdown
Advantages
- Significantly more affordable than replacing lock hardware.
- Quick process, often completed in under an hour for several locks.
- Maintains existing hardware, preserving the home's aesthetic.
- Allows for key consolidation, making multiple locks work with a single new key.
- Eco-friendly by reusing existing hardware instead of discarding it.
Considerations
- Does not upgrade the physical security or quality of the lock itself.
- Not an option if the lock is damaged, worn out, or malfunctioning.
- Cannot be done if you want to change lock styles, finishes, or brands.
- May not be possible to key-alike locks from different manufacturers.
| Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Rekeying Service (per lock) | $40 – $100 |
| Standard Lock Replacement (per lock) | $80 – $200 |
| High-Security or Smart Lock Replacement (per lock) | $250 – $500 |
