Deadbolt Installation Cost 2026: What You Should Pay
Single cylinder deadbolt installation costs $100–$200. Smart locks run $200–$400 installed. Here's exactly what affects the price, which brands are worth buying, and when you can skip the locksmith.
Single Cylinder
$100–$200
Double Cylinder
$150–$250
Smart Lock (installed)
$200–$400
Labour Only
$60–$120
Deadbolt Installation Price Breakdown
Prices below include locksmith service call fee and labour. Lock hardware cost is shown separately — buy your own lock and bring it to the appointment to save 20–30% on hardware markup.
Deadbolt Brand Comparison
Not all deadbolts are equal. The ANSI/BHMA grade is the most important security certification — Grade 1 is the minimum recommended for exterior doors.
DIY vs Calling a Locksmith: Honest Breakdown
Deadbolt installation is one of the more DIY-friendly locksmith jobs. Here's when it makes sense to do it yourself.
✓ DIY Makes Sense If:
• Replacing an existing deadbolt in the same prep hole (no new boring needed)
• You're comfortable with basic tools (screwdriver, drill)
• The lock is a standard consumer grade (Schlage, Kwikset)
• You have 30–60 minutes and patience to align properly
• You're happy with the security grade of the lock you're installing
✗ Call a Locksmith If:
• New hole needs to be bored in the door (requires a door bore kit and accuracy)
• Installing a high-security lock (alignment and fit are critical)
• Door frame needs reinforcement (strike plate or door frame kit)
• Smart lock requires pairing with an existing system you're not comfortable setting up
• Door alignment is off and the latch doesn't throw cleanly
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to install a deadbolt?
Deadbolt installation costs $100–$200 for a single cylinder deadbolt, $150–$250 for a double cylinder, and $200–$400 for a smart or electronic deadbolt. These prices include the locksmith's service call fee and labour. The lock hardware itself is typically additional — a quality Grade 1 deadbolt costs $40–$120 at hardware stores.
What is the difference between a single and double cylinder deadbolt?
A single cylinder deadbolt has a keyhole on the outside and a thumb turn on the inside — the most common residential configuration. A double cylinder deadbolt requires a key on both sides, which adds security against glass-break entry (someone breaking a nearby window to reach the thumb turn) but creates a fire safety risk because you need a key to exit in an emergency. Most fire codes discourage double cylinder deadbolts in primary exit doors.
How much does a smart deadbolt installation cost?
Smart deadbolt installation (locksmith labour) costs $80–$150. The lock hardware itself costs $100–$300 depending on brand and features. Total installed cost typically runs $200–$400. Popular brands include Schlage Encode ($200–$280 total), Kwikset Halo ($160–$230), and Yale Assure ($180–$250). The locksmith programs the lock and integrates it with your existing door hardware.
Can I install a deadbolt myself?
Yes — installing a deadbolt on an existing door prep (pre-drilled hole) is a straightforward DIY job. It requires a screwdriver and takes 20–30 minutes. However, if your door doesn't have an existing hole, cutting a new bore requires a door bore kit and a drill — still DIY-feasible but takes more care. The locksmith's value is in fitting it correctly, ensuring alignment, and adjusting the strike plate for a solid throw.
Which deadbolt brand is best?
For standard residential use, Schlage B60N (Grade 2, around $40–$60) and Schlage B62N (Grade 1, around $60–$90) are widely regarded as the best value-security balance. Medeco and Mul-T-Lock offer superior pick resistance for high-threat environments but cost $150–$300+ per lock. For smart locks, Schlage Encode and Yale Assure are well-reviewed for reliability. Avoid cheap unbranded deadbolts sold at discount stores — they typically fail the ANSI Grade 3 test.
What is ANSI grading for deadbolts?
ANSI/BHMA grades rate residential and commercial locks on security and durability. Grade 1 is the highest residential grade (withstands 250,000 cycles and significant kick force). Grade 2 is standard residential (150,000 cycles). Grade 3 is the minimum — typically seen in cheap builder-grade locks. For exterior doors, Grade 1 is the minimum recommendation from security professionals.
How long does deadbolt installation take?
Installing a deadbolt in an existing door prep takes 20–40 minutes for a locksmith. If a new hole needs to be bored, add 20–30 minutes. A full door security upgrade (deadbolt + strike plate reinforcement + door frame reinforcement) takes 1–2 hours. Most locksmiths charge by the job for standard installations rather than by the hour.
Should I replace the deadbolt when I move into a new home?
Yes, ideally — you don't know who has copies of the existing keys. Rekeying is the cheaper option ($50–$80 per lock) if the hardware is in good condition and security grade is acceptable. Replacing the deadbolt entirely makes sense if it's a cheap Grade 3 lock (upgrade to Grade 1), if you want a smart lock, or if the mechanism shows wear. New homeowners who rekey or replace locks immediately are much better protected.
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