Moving into a new home is exciting, but the keys you received at closing may have already been copied more times than you know. Previous owners, real estate agents, contractors, cleaners, and neighbors could all have working copies. The question most new homeowners face is whether to rekey or change locks after moving, and which option actually protects you better. This guide breaks down how each option works, what you can expect to pay, and how to make the right call for your home. When you are ready to act, 1-800-Unlocks can connect you with a verified local locksmith in your area.

What Does Rekeying a Lock Actually Mean?

Rekeying a lock does not involve replacing the lock hardware at all. A locksmith adjusts the internal pins inside the lock cylinder so that the old key no longer works and a new key is cut to match the updated configuration. The lock body, deadbolt, and door hardware all stay exactly where they are. Because the hardware stays in place, rekeying is faster and less expensive than a full lock replacement. It is a smart choice when your existing locks are in good working condition and you simply want to cut off access from anyone who had a key before you moved in.

What Does Changing Locks Actually Mean?

Changing locks means removing the existing lock hardware entirely and installing new hardware in its place. This can mean swapping out just the cylinder, or replacing the full lock set including the knob, deadbolt, and strike plate. A residential locksmith will handle the removal, installation, and alignment to make sure the new hardware fits correctly and functions securely. Changing locks makes the most sense when the existing hardware is worn, damaged, or low quality, giving you the opportunity to upgrade to better hardware at the same time.

Rekey vs. Change Locks After Moving: Which Is Actually Safer?

From a security standpoint, both options accomplish the same core goal: they eliminate the threat of unknown key copies. A properly rekeyed lock is just as secure as a new lock, assuming the existing hardware is in good shape. The difference in safety comes down to the condition and quality of the hardware you are starting with.

• If your new home has solid Grade 1 or Grade 2 deadbolts on all entry doors, rekeying is a perfectly safe choice.
• If the locks are cheap builder-grade hardware or show signs of wear, a full replacement gives you a security upgrade at the same time.
• If there are signs of a prior break-in attempt or forced entry, replacement is the stronger option.
• A verified locksmith can assess the hardware on-site and give you an honest recommendation.

Watch out for locksmiths who pressure new homeowners into full replacements when rekeying would do the job just fine. You can learn more about common tactics to avoid on the locksmith fraud page on this site.

What Does Rekeying Cost vs. Replacing Locks?

Rekeying is almost always the more affordable option. Most locksmiths charge between $20 and $50 per lock cylinder for rekeying, plus a service call fee that typically ranges from $50 to $100 depending on your location. If you have four or five entry points to rekey, your total cost might land between $150 and $300. You can get a clearer sense of what to expect by reviewing current locksmith prices before you call.

Replacing locks costs more because you are paying for both labor and new hardware. Basic deadbolt sets start around $30 to $60 per lock, while high-security options can run $100 to $300 or more. Add labor, and a full replacement on multiple doors can run anywhere from $300 to $700 or higher depending on the hardware you choose and how many doors are involved.

When You Should Choose Each Option

Use this quick breakdown to decide which option fits your situation:

• Choose rekeying when your locks are in solid condition, you want the fastest and most affordable path to security, or you want all locks keyed to one new key in a single visit.
• Choose replacement when hardware is old or damaged, you want to upgrade to higher-security or smart lock technology, or the door frame and strike plate also need attention.

A lock changing service from a verified pro ensures new hardware is installed correctly and seated properly in the door frame. For a broader look at what to prioritize on move-in day, the move-in day security checklist walks through the key steps new homeowners should take before settling in.

How to Find a Locksmith You Can Trust for This Job

Not all locksmiths operate the same way. Some use bait-and-switch pricing, quoting a low rate on the phone and then inflating the bill at the door. Others work out of unmarked vehicles with no identification. When you are hiring someone to handle the security of your new home, you want a pro who shows up in a marked truck, provides a written quote before starting work, and does not push unnecessary replacements.

We make it easy to find a verified local locksmith near you. Search by ZIP code or call 1-800-UNLOCKS to be connected with a screened locksmith in your area who can assess your locks, explain your options clearly, and get the job done right. Moving into a new home is a fresh start. Make sure your locks reflect that. Find a verified residential locksmith near you through 1-800-Unlocks and get a fast, honest quote today.