Rekeying vs Changing Locks: Which Is Right for You?
When the security of your home or business depends on who has access to your keys, you have two options: rekey the existing locks or replace them entirely. Both achieve the same goal — making old keys useless and giving you fresh control over access. But they work differently, cost different amounts, and suit different situations. This guide breaks down exactly when to choose each, so you can make the right call without overspending.
What Is Lock Rekeying?
Rekeying a lock means changing the internal pin configuration of the existing lock cylinder so that it works with a new key. A locksmith removes the cylinder, replaces the pins inside with a different set, and reassembles it. The lock hardware — the deadbolt, knob, or lever — stays exactly the same. Only the key that operates it changes.
The result: every existing key for that lock becomes permanently useless. No one who had a copy of the old key can use it anymore. You walk away with a new key (or set of keys) that works on the newly configured cylinder.
What Does Changing Locks Mean?
Changing locks means removing the existing lock hardware entirely and installing new hardware in its place. This could mean replacing just the cylinder (the part the key goes into), or replacing the entire lockset — the cylinder, the body of the lock, the knob or lever, and the strike plate.
The new lock comes with its own new keys. Like rekeying, the end result is that old keys no longer work. But because you’re replacing physical hardware, a lock change also addresses any issues with the condition, grade, or security rating of the existing lock.
Rekeying vs Changing Locks: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Rekeying | Changing Locks | |
|---|---|---|
| Average NYC cost | $75–$145 per cylinder | $145–$400+ per door |
| Hardware replaced | None — same lock, new key | Full lockset or cylinder |
| Time to complete | 15–30 min per lock | 30–60 min per lock |
| Existing hardware | Must be in good condition | Old hardware removed |
| Security upgrade | Same security level as before | Can upgrade grade/brand |
| Key control | All old keys voided | All old keys voided |
| Best for | Moving in, lost keys, tenant change | Worn locks, upgrade, damage |
When Rekeying Is the Better Choice
You just moved into a new apartment or house
This is the single most common reason to rekey in NYC. You have no idea how many copies of the existing keys were made by previous tenants, building staff, contractors, or prior owners. Rekeying immediately after moving in is the fastest, most affordable way to ensure only you have working keys — and it doesn’t require replacing perfectly good hardware.
You’ve lost a key or had keys stolen
If a key goes missing — whether it fell out of your pocket or was taken — rekeying immediately closes the security gap. It’s significantly cheaper than replacing the entire lockset and achieves exactly the same result: the missing key stops working.
A tenant has moved out
For landlords and property managers, rekeying between tenants is standard practice. It’s quick, affordable, and protects against unauthorized re-entry. If you’re managing multiple units, rekeying rather than replacing keeps your per-unit security costs well controlled.
You want to simplify your keys
If you have multiple locks in your home or building that require different keys, a locksmith can rekey all of them to work with a single key — a process called keying alike. This is far cheaper than replacing all the hardware and makes day-to-day life significantly more convenient.
When Changing Locks Is the Better Choice
Your existing locks are worn, damaged, or outdated
If a lock is stiff, sticky, hard to turn, or showing signs of wear, rekeying won’t fix the underlying hardware problem. In this case, replacing the lockset makes more sense — you get a fresh, reliable mechanism at the same time as fresh key control.
You want to upgrade your security grade
Rekeying keeps the same lock. If your existing locks are low-grade builder-spec hardware — the kind installed in most NYC apartments by default — rekeying won’t improve their pick, bump, or drill resistance. If you want to move to high-security hardware (Medeco, Mul-T-Lock, Schlage Primus), you’ll need to change the locks. The investment is higher, but so is the protection.
The lock has been tampered with or broken into
If a lock has been forced, drilled, or tampered with, the hardware itself may be compromised — even if it still appears to function. In these cases, replacing the lock entirely is the right call. A locksmith can assess whether the cylinder has been damaged beyond safe rekeying.
You’re installing a smart or high-security lock
If you want to add a smart lock, keypad entry, or a specific high-security brand to your door, that requires a full lock change. These systems come with their own cylinders and hardware and can’t be retrofitted onto an existing lockset through rekeying alone.
Is Rekeying as Secure as Getting New Locks?
Yes — with one important caveat. If your existing locks are in good condition and are already a reasonable security grade, rekeying achieves identical access security to replacing them. The pin configuration inside the cylinder is just as unique after rekeying as it would be in a brand-new lock. No one with an old key can get in.
The caveat is lock quality. Rekeying a cheap, low-grade lock still leaves you with a cheap, low-grade lock — one that can be picked, bumped, or bypassed more easily than a high-security alternative. If the hardware itself is the weak point, changing locks is the right move.
How Much Does It Cost to Rekey vs Change Locks in NYC?
Rekeying typically runs $75–$145 per cylinder in New York City, including labor. If you have multiple locks keyed alike in one visit, the per-unit cost often decreases. A standard NYC apartment door with two locks — a deadbolt and a knob or lever — would typically run $150–$250 to rekey both.
Lock changes vary more widely. Replacing a basic deadbolt with standard hardware runs $145–$250 installed. Moving to a high-security lock (Medeco, Mul-T-Lock) typically runs $250–$500+ per door, including hardware and labor. If you’re replacing multiple locks across a property, Mr. Locks can provide a volume quote.
Bottom line: if the hardware is good and your goal is simply fresh key control, rekeying is almost always 40–60% cheaper than replacing. Save the lock change for situations where the hardware itself needs addressing.
Common Questions
Can any lock be rekeyed?
Most standard pin tumbler locks — deadbolts, knobs, levers — can be rekeyed. Certain high-security locks with restricted keyways can only be rekeyed by an authorized dealer. Smart locks and electronic locks typically cannot be rekeyed in the traditional sense. A locksmith can assess your specific hardware before the job.
How long does rekeying take?
Most residential rekeying jobs in NYC take 15–30 minutes per lock. A full apartment with two or three locks can typically be done in under an hour. Mr. Locks offers same-day rekeying service across all five boroughs.
Do I need to be home for the locksmith to rekey?
Yes — a locksmith must physically access the lock to rekey it, which means someone needs to be present to let them in. For commercial properties with multiple units, Mr. Locks can coordinate with building management to complete rekeying across the building efficiently.
Rekeying and Lock Change Services Across NYC
Mr. Locks provides fast, professional rekeying and lock change services for apartments, homes, offices, and commercial buildings across Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island. Whether you just moved in, lost a key, or are ready to upgrade your hardware, we’ll assess your situation and recommend the most cost-effective solution.
Same-day service available. Transparent pricing before any work begins. Contact us now!