Rekeying a single apartment lock in New York City typically costs $75 to $150 for a standard pin-tumbler deadbolt and $120 to $200 for a high-security lock like Medeco or Mul-T-Lock. Most NYC apartments have 2 to 3 locks on the front door, so a full apartment rekey usually runs $150 to $400 total. The service takes 30 to 45 minutes and does not require removing the lock from the door. Call (718) 412-1332 for a free estimate.
Rekeying changes the internal pin configuration of your existing lock so that the old keys no longer work and only the new keys will operate it. The locksmith removes the lock cylinder from the door hardware, replaces the pins inside with a new set that matches a different key, reassembles the cylinder, and tests the lock. The lock body, exterior hardware, and strike plate stay in place.
This is different from replacing a lock entirely, which involves removing the whole assembly and installing a brand-new one. Rekeying is faster, less expensive, and makes sense whenever your existing locks are in good working condition but you need to invalidate old keys.
| Lock Type | Cost per Lock | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard pin-tumbler deadbolt | $75 -- $150 | Most common in NYC apartments; Schlage, Kwikset, Yale |
| High-security lock (Medeco, Mul-T-Lock, Abloy) | $120 -- $200 | Restricted keyways; blanks cost more; specialized pins |
| Knob or lever lock | $60 -- $120 | Simpler mechanism; often rekeyed alongside deadbolt |
| Mailbox lock | $50 -- $100 | Small cylinder; often done at the same visit |
| Full apartment (2-3 door locks + mailbox) | $200 -- $450 | Multi-lock discount common; includes 2-3 key copies |
Prices are typical NYC ranges and include service call + labor + new key copies. After-hours or weekend service may add $25-$50. Always confirm the total before work begins.
Not every rekeying job costs the same. Several factors move the price up or down.
Standard locks from Schlage, Kwikset, and Yale use common pin sizes and widely available key blanks. High-security locks like Medeco, Mul-T-Lock, and Abloy use patented keyways with restricted blanks that cost more and require specialized tools. The pins themselves may be custom-cut or have additional anti-pick features that take more time to configure.
Most NYC apartments have at least two locks on the front door -- a top lock and a deadbolt. Many have three (top lock, bottom lock, and deadbolt). Rekeying all locks in one visit is more cost-effective than calling separately for each one. Most locksmiths offer a per-additional-lock discount of $15 to $30 off the second and third lock.
Standard business-hours service (8 AM to 6 PM weekdays) is the base rate. Evening, weekend, and holiday service typically adds a $25 to $50 surcharge. If you have flexibility, scheduling during business hours saves money. A 24-hour locksmith will rekey at any time, but expect the premium.
Most rekeying quotes include 2 to 3 key copies. Additional copies are $2 to $5 each for standard keys and $15 to $30 each for high-security restricted-keyway keys. If you need copies for a partner, roommate, or to leave with the super, factor this in when getting your quote.
Keying alike means configuring all your locks (top lock, deadbolt, knob) to work with a single key. This is convenient and most locksmiths do it at no extra charge during a multi-lock rekey. If your locks are different brands or have incompatible keyways, the locksmith may need to replace one cylinder to make them compatible, which adds $40 to $80.
Rekeying is not something you do on a schedule -- it is triggered by specific situations. Here are the most common reasons NYC tenants rekey:
This is one of the most common questions NYC tenants ask. The answer depends on the situation:
For a deeper look at tenant vs. landlord lock responsibilities in NYC, see our dedicated guide.
If your locks are in good working condition -- the key turns smoothly, the deadbolt extends and retracts fully, and there is no visible damage -- rekeying is the right choice. It costs half or less compared to full replacement and takes a fraction of the time.
Replace the lock if:
Want a quote on rekeying your apartment? Our licensed locksmiths provide transparent pricing for NYC apartment rekeying.
Rekeying a single standard pin-tumbler lock in NYC typically costs $75 to $150. The price includes the service call, labor (usually 10 to 20 minutes of work), and new key copies. High-security locks like Medeco or Mul-T-Lock cost more because they require specialized pins and restricted key blanks, typically $120 to $200 per lock. Most locksmiths offer a discount when rekeying multiple locks in the same visit.
Rekeying is almost always cheaper. Rekeying a standard lock costs $75 to $150 because it reuses the existing lock hardware and only changes the internal pin configuration. Replacing a lock entirely costs $150 to $400 or more because you are paying for a new lock plus installation labor. Rekey when the lock is in good condition and you just need to invalidate old keys. Replace when the lock is worn, damaged, or you want to upgrade to a higher security grade.
Under New York City law, landlords are required to change or rekey the locks on apartment doors between tenants. This cost falls on the landlord, not the incoming tenant. However, if you want to rekey mid-lease for personal reasons (such as a breakup, lost keys, or a roommate moving out), you are generally responsible for the cost unless your lease states otherwise. Always inform your landlord before rekeying and provide them with a copy of the new key if required by your lease.
A locksmith can rekey a standard pin-tumbler lock in 10 to 20 minutes. If you have multiple locks (a common NYC apartment setup includes a top lock, a deadbolt, and sometimes a bottom lock), expect 30 to 45 minutes total. The locksmith removes the lock cylinder, replaces the pins to match a new key, tests the lock, and provides you with new key copies. The process does not require removing the entire lock from the door.
Technically yes, if you buy a rekeying kit and your lock brand supports DIY rekeying (Kwikset SmartKey locks, for example, have a built-in rekey feature). However, most NYC apartment locks are pin-tumbler deadbolts that require disassembly, new pins, and specialized tools. If the pins are not set correctly, the lock may jam, fail to lock properly, or become more vulnerable to picking. For an apartment where security matters, professional rekeying is recommended.