How much do locksmiths make?

Entry-level locksmiths earn $35,000–$45,000/year. Experienced journeymen locksmiths earn $50,000–$75,000. Master locksmiths and owners of locksmith businesses earn $75,000–$150,000+. Mobile locksmiths in high-demand markets can earn $80,000–$130,000 working intensively. The BLS median wage for protective service workers who include locksmiths is approximately $46,000, though surveys of working locksmiths suggest higher figures for established trades workers.

What do locksmiths charge per service call?

Locksmith service call rates: residential lockout $75–$175; car lockout $50–$125; lock rekey $50–$100/lock; lock installation $100–$400; commercial lock service $125–$300/hr; safe opening $150–$500+; emergency after-hours premium adds $50–$150 to base rates. Rates vary significantly by market — NYC locksmiths charge 50–100% more than rural markets.

What licenses do locksmiths need?

Licensing requirements vary significantly by state. ALOA (Associated Locksmiths of America) reports 15+ states require locksmith licenses: California, Connecticut, Illinois, Louisiana, Maryland, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and others. Unlicensed states still require general business licenses. Background checks are standard given the security-sensitive nature of the work.

Is locksmithing a good career?

Locksmithing offers a strong income floor with an excellent business ownership ceiling. Training takes 6–12 months. Mobile locksmith business owners are among the higher-income tradespeople on a per-hour-worked basis. Demand is stable — people will always get locked out, need rekeying after moves, and require security upgrades. Electronic/smart lock installation and security consulting are growing areas that increase per-job value.

Locksmith Salary Guide (2026): Average Pay, Rates, and Career Path

For conversion formulas, overtime scenarios, and annual-pay planning, see the Hourly to Annual hub.

For role-by-role compensation benchmarking and career income strategy, see the Profession Salary Guides hub.

Locksmithing is one of the most under-the-radar skilled trades — steady demand, low overhead for mobile work, and a strong ceiling for business owners. Here’s the full salary picture for 2026.

Locksmith Salary Overview

By Experience Level

Level	Hourly	Annual
Apprentice / trainee	$15–$20	$31,000–$42,000
Journeyman locksmith	$20–$32	$42,000–$67,000
Experienced locksmith	$28–$45	$58,000–$94,000
Master locksmith	$40–$65	$83,000–$135,000
Mobile locksmith business owner	$60–$150 (effective)	$80,000–$200,000

Locksmith Service Rates (2026)

Service	Typical Rate
Residential lockout	$75–$175
Car lockout (standard)	$50–$125
Car lockout (high-security / push button)	$100–$250
Lock rekey	$50–$100/lock
Lock installation (residential)	$100–$250/lock
High-security lock installation	$250–$600
Deadbolt installation	$100–$200
Commercial door lock service	$125–$350
Safe opening (non-destructive)	$200–$500
Safe opening (destructive)	$300–$800
Smart lock installation	$150–$400
Master key system setup	$200–$800+
Emergency / after-hours premium	+$50–$150

Locksmith Salary by State

State	Avg Annual Salary
California	$68,000
New York	$65,000
Washington	$63,000
Massachusetts	$62,000
Texas	$54,000
Florida	$49,000
Illinois	$57,000
Georgia	$47,000
Ohio	$48,000
National Average	$52,000

Mobile Locksmith Business Income Potential

A mobile locksmith with a van and steady call volume can generate strong income:

Scenario	Calls/Day	Avg Revenue/Call	Daily Revenue	Annual Gross
Light (5 calls/day)	5	$125	$625	$156,000
Moderate (7 calls/day)	7	$130	$910	$228,000
Busy (9 calls/day)	9	$130	$1,170	$293,000

After van, tools, insurance, fuel, and marketing costs (~$40,000–$60,000/year), owner’s income is $80,000–$200,000+ on busy schedules.

Locksmith Certifications

Certification	Awarding Body	Significance
ALOA RPL (Registered Professional Locksmith)	ALOA	Entry-level credential; widely recognized
ALOA CML (Certified Master Locksmith)	ALOA	Highest credential; requires exam and experience
SAVTA Certified (Safe and Vault Tech)	SAVTA	Specialty in safe work
SCLA (State Certified Locksmith Association)	State-specific	Required for some state licensure

Career Path

Apprentice / Shop Worker
    ↓
Journeyman Locksmith
    ↓
Master Locksmith / Specialist (safe, automotive, commercial)
    ↓
Mobile Business Owner OR Commercial Security Consultant

Written by WealthVieu

WealthVieu researches and writes data-driven personal finance guides using primary sources including the IRS, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Federal Reserve, and Census Bureau.

The content on Wealthvieu is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, tax, or investment advice. Consult a qualified professional before making financial decisions. Full disclaimer · Editorial policy