An independent research site dedicated to helping consumers find affordable, licensed locksmiths without falling for scams.
AffordableLocksmithGuide exists because the "cheap locksmith" space is one of the most consistently abused categories in local service advertising. Fake ad networks using bait-and-switch pricing are documented in dozens of US cities, and millions of Americans are overcharged for locksmith services every year.
Our goal is simple: give consumers the information they need to hire a legitimate, affordable locksmith without overpaying or getting scammed. We do not operate a locksmith service and do not receive payment from locksmith companies to feature them.
Every price, every scam pattern, and every recommendation on this site is backed by documented research. Here is exactly how we do it.
We call 3-5 locksmiths in each tracked city every quarter using a standardized script, requesting all-in quotes for home lockout, car lockout, and rekeying. We record minimum, maximum, and median prices for each market.
We cross-reference our price data with ALOA (Associated Locksmiths of America) member survey data published annually. Where our call data and ALOA data diverge significantly, we investigate and explain the discrepancy.
We actively monitor FTC complaint data and state attorney general enforcement actions to identify scam operators and update our red-flag guidance. Scam tactics evolve; our documentation stays current.
We do not accept paid placement from locksmith companies, do not participate in referral networks, and do not earn commissions for recommending specific companies. Our only income model is direct reader support and advertising from non-locksmith advertisers.
Pricing data becomes stale. Scam tactics change. We update our content when we find errors or when market data shifts materially. When a correction changes a recommendation, we note it with the date of the update.
If you have found an error in our data or have current market pricing data to share, we want to hear from you.
Send a CorrectionEvery price range, scam warning, and vetting tip on this site is here to help you hire a legitimate locksmith at a fair price. Start with the main guide.