Hey there! If you’re sitting there wondering, “How much does it cost to have a deadbolt installed?” you’re not alone. As a homeowner, I’ve been in your shoes, wanting to beef up my home’s security without breaking the bank. A deadbolt is one of the simplest, most effective ways to keep your home safe, but the costs can vary depending on a bunch of factors. I’ve done the legwork—calling locksmiths, checking hardware stores, and even installing a couple of deadbolts myself—to figure out what you can expect to pay.
In this article, I’m going to break it all down for you, from the price of the lock itself to the labor charges and everything in between. Whether you’re in a big city or a small town, I’ll help you understand what goes into the cost and how to make the best choice for your home. Let’s dive in!
Why a Deadbolt Matters for Your Home
Before we get into the dollars and cents, let’s talk about why a deadbolt is worth your time and money. When I first moved into my house, I noticed the front door only had a basic knob lock. It felt flimsy, and I wasn’t confident it would hold up if someone tried to break in. A deadbolt, with its solid bolt that extends deep into the door frame, is a game-changer. It’s much harder to force open than a regular lock, giving you peace of mind whether you’re home or away.
Deadbolts come in different types—single-cylinder, double-cylinder, and even smart deadbolts with keypads or app controls. Each type affects the cost, but they all share one goal: keeping your home secure. I learned this the hard way when a neighbor’s house was broken into. After that, I decided to invest in a deadbolt, and it’s one of the best home improvement decisions I’ve made. Knowing what you’re paying for helps you make a smart choice, so let’s look at the factors that influence the cost.
Breaking Down the Cost of a Deadbolt
The cost of installing a deadbolt isn’t just one number—it depends on the lock, the labor, and a few other things. When I started shopping around, I found prices ranged from as low as $50 to over $500, depending on what I was looking for. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll likely spend, based on my experience.
The Price of the Deadbolt Itself
The deadbolt itself is the first piece of the puzzle. I spent hours browsing hardware stores and online retailers to see what’s out there. Basic single-cylinder deadbolts, which you open with a key from the outside and a thumb-turn from the inside, start at around $20 to $50. Brands like Kwikset and Schlage make reliable ones in this range. They’re simple, sturdy, and get the job done for most homes.
If you want something fancier, like a double-cylinder deadbolt (which requires a key on both sides), expect to pay $40 to $100. I considered one of these for a door with glass panels, since they’re harder to break into. Then there are smart deadbolts, which blew my mind with their features. These can cost $100 to $300 or more, depending on whether they have Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or a keypad. I found a basic smart deadbolt for $120, but high-end models from brands like August or Yale can hit $250 easily.
Here’s a quick table to give you an idea of deadbolt prices:
| Type of Deadbolt | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Single-Cylinder Deadbolt | $20 – $50 |
| Double-Cylinder Deadbolt | $40 – $100 |
| Smart Deadbolt | $100 – $300+ |
Your choice depends on your needs. For my front door, I went with a mid-range single-cylinder deadbolt because it was affordable and reliable. If you’ve got kids or want convenience, a smart deadbolt might be worth the splurge.
Labor Costs for Professional Installation
Unless you’re handy with tools, you’ll probably hire a locksmith or handyman to install your deadbolt. I called around to a few locksmiths in my area (I’m in a mid-sized city in the USA), and labor costs typically range from $50 to $150 per lock. The price depends on where you live, how complex the installation is, and whether the door needs modifications.
For example, if your door already has a hole for a deadbolt, the job is quick and might cost closer to $50. But if the locksmith has to drill a new hole or adjust the door frame, you’re looking at $100 or more. I had to pay $80 for my installation because my door was pre-drilled, but the locksmith needed to tweak the strike plate to make it secure.
In big cities like New York or Los Angeles, labor can be pricier—sometimes $100 to $200. In smaller towns, you might get away with $40 to $80. One tip I learned: always ask for a quote upfront. Some locksmiths charge a flat rate, while others have hourly fees. If you’re installing multiple deadbolts, you might get a discount. I got a deal when I had deadbolts put on both my front and back doors—$120 for both instead of $80 each.
Additional Costs to Consider
Sometimes, the bill includes more than just the lock and labor. Here are a few extras I ran into:
- Door Modifications: If your door isn’t set up for a deadbolt, the locksmith might need to drill or reinforce the frame. This can add $20 to $100 to the cost.
- Trip Fees: Some locksmiths charge a service call fee, usually $20 to $50, just to show up. I was surprised when one quoted me a $30 trip fee, but I found another who didn’t charge it.
- High-Security Features: If you want a deadbolt with advanced features, like bump-proof or pick-resistant technology, the lock itself costs more, and installation might take longer.
- Emergency Services: If you need a deadbolt installed after hours or on a weekend, expect to pay 20-50% more. I avoided this by scheduling during regular business hours.
When I added it all up, my total cost for a mid-range deadbolt and installation was about $120. But if you go for a high-end smart lock or need extra work, you could easily spend $300 or more.
DIY vs. Professional Installation: What I Learned
I’m pretty handy, so I considered installing the deadbolt myself to save money. After watching a few YouTube videos and reading the instructions, I gave it a shot on my back door. It wasn’t too hard, but it took me about an hour, and I needed a drill, screwdriver, and a chisel. If you already have the tools, DIY can save you the $50 to $150 labor cost. A basic deadbolt kit comes with a template to help you drill the right spots, which made it easier.
But here’s the catch: if you mess it up, it can cost more to fix. I almost misaligned the strike plate, which would’ve made the lock less secure. For my front door, I decided to hire a locksmith to make sure it was done right. If you’re not confident with tools or your door is tricky (like if it’s metal or has glass), I’d recommend going pro. The peace of mind is worth it.
Factors That Affect the Cost
When I started comparing quotes, I noticed the price varied a lot depending on a few things. Here’s what I found impacts the cost the most:
- Location: As I mentioned, big cities have higher labor rates. If you’re in a rural area, you might pay less, but locksmiths might charge more for travel if they’re far away.
- Type of Door: Wooden doors are easiest to work with, so they’re cheaper to install. Metal or fiberglass doors might need special tools, which bumps up the cost.
- Lock Quality: A basic deadbolt is cheaper than a high-security or smart one. I was tempted by a $200 smart lock with a keypad, but I stuck with a $40 Schlage for my budget.
- Number of Locks: Installing multiple deadbolts at once can save you money. My locksmith gave me a deal for doing two doors in one visit.
- Time of Service: After-hours or emergency installs cost more. I planned ahead to avoid this.
Understanding these factors helped me budget better and avoid surprises. When you’re getting quotes, make sure to mention your door type and whether you want one or multiple locks installed.
How to Save Money on Deadbolt Installation
I’m all about saving a buck where I can, so I dug into ways to keep costs down. Here are my top tips:
- Shop Around: Call at least three locksmiths for quotes. I saved $30 by comparing prices in my area.
- Buy the Lock Yourself: You can often find deadbolts cheaper online or at stores like Home Depot or Lowe’s. I bought mine on Amazon for $35, saving about $15 compared to the locksmith’s price.
- Bundle Installations: If you need deadbolts on multiple doors, do them all at once for a discount.
- DIY If You’re Handy: If you’ve got the tools and some skills, installing it yourself can save $50 or more. Just double-check your work to make sure it’s secure.
- Avoid Emergency Calls: Schedule the installation during regular hours to skip extra fees.
One thing I did was check reviews before hiring a locksmith. I found a highly rated local guy who did a great job for a fair price. Avoid companies with pushy sales tactics or super low quotes—they might tack on hidden fees.
Choosing the Right Deadbolt for Your Home
Picking the right deadbolt can feel overwhelming with so many options. I spent a lot of time comparing features, and here’s what I learned:
- Single-Cylinder: Great for most homes. You need a key outside and a thumb-turn inside. They’re affordable and easy to use.
- Double-Cylinder: Good for doors with glass, since they’re harder to break into. But you’ll need a key to get out, which can be tricky in an emergency.
- Smart Deadbolts: These are awesome if you want keyless entry or remote control. I was tempted by one that lets me lock my door from my phone, but the price was steep.
- High-Security Deadbolts: These have extra features like anti-pick pins or reinforced plates. They cost more but are worth it if you’re in a high-crime area.
I went with a single-cylinder Schlage deadbolt because it had good reviews and fit my budget. Think about your lifestyle—do you want convenience, extra security, or something simple? That’ll help you decide.
My Experience: What I Paid and Why
To give you a real-world example, here’s what I paid for my deadbolt installation. I live in a mid-sized city, and my front door is standard wood. I chose a Schlage single-cylinder deadbolt for $40 from Amazon. The locksmith charged $80 for installation, including adjusting the strike plate. Total cost: $120. For my back door, I did it myself with a $35 deadbolt, so I saved on labor. My total for two deadbolts was $155.
If I’d gone for a smart deadbolt, I could’ve spent $200 just on the lock, plus $100 for installation. If my door needed major modifications, I might’ve paid an extra $50. Your costs will depend on your choices, but this gives you a ballpark.
Conclusion
After diving deep into the world of deadbolts, I can tell you it’s one of the smartest investments you can make for your home. Whether you spend $50 or $500, a deadbolt gives you peace of mind that’s hard to put a price on. I sleep better knowing my doors are secure, and I’m glad I took the time to research and find the right option for my budget. By understanding the costs—lock price, labor, and extras—you can make a choice that fits your needs without overspending. Shop around, consider DIY if you’re up for it, and pick a deadbolt that matches your lifestyle. Your home deserves that extra layer of protection, and you deserve to feel safe.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to install a deadbolt?
Installing a deadbolt usually takes 30 minutes to an hour for a professional. If the door needs drilling or adjustments, it might take up to two hours. When I did it myself, it took about an hour, but I went slow to get it right.
Can I install a deadbolt myself?
Yes, if you have basic tools like a drill, screwdriver, and chisel, you can install a deadbolt. Most kits come with instructions and a template. I did it on my back door, but it’s trickier if your door isn’t pre-drilled. If you’re unsure, hire a pro to avoid mistakes.
Are smart deadbolts worth the extra cost?
Smart deadbolts are great if you want convenience, like keyless entry or remote locking. They cost $100 to $300, compared to $20 to $50 for a basic deadbolt. I didn’t need the fancy features, but if you love tech or have kids who lose keys, they’re worth considering.
How do I find a reliable locksmith?
Check online reviews on sites like Yelp or Google. Ask for recommendations from friends or neighbors. I called three locksmiths and picked one with great reviews and a clear quote. Make sure they’re licensed and avoid super low quotes that seem too good to be true.
Do I need a deadbolt on every door?
It depends on your home. I put deadbolts on my front and back doors since they’re main entry points. Side doors or garage doors might need them too, especially if they’re easy to access. Check your home’s layout and focus on the most vulnerable spots.