Smart locks have moved from novelty to a common upgrade in modern homes. Understanding the Smart Lock Installation Cost helps homeowners plan their security upgrades wisely. Prices vary depending on lock type, brand, and installation method—whether DIY or professional. Knowing the average range ensures you invest smartly without unexpected expenses. You’re not simply buying a fancy gadget — you’re investing in convenience, security, and peace of mind. But with that investment comes a key question: how much will it cost to install a smart lock?
You’ll see numbers everywhere: “$100”, “$400”, “$800+”. What’s the difference? What does that cover? And what hidden factors might push your cost up (or let you save)?
In this article, we’ll break down average costs, what drives them, DIY versus pro installation, brand and door-type differences, regional variation, and much more. By the end, you’ll know realistically what you should expect to pay — and why.
- Average Smart Lock Installation Cost in 2025
- Key Factors That Influence Installation Pricing
- DIY vs Professional Installation
- Detailed Cost Breakdown: From Hardware to Labour
- How Different Smart Locks Affect Your Bill
- Regional and Service-Based Price Differences
- Hidden or Overlooked Costs Homeowners Miss
- How to Save Money Without Compromising Security
- Common Mistakes to Avoid When Installing Smart Locks
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Average Smart Lock Installation Cost in 2025
If you want a quick snapshot: for many homeowners, installed smart lock lands somewhere in the range of $150–$500. For instance, one cost guide reports an average total cost (lock + install) of around $150–$400.
Another source shows a somewhat higher average of $212–$503, noting that higher-end smart locks or more complex installs tip the range upward.
Here’s a little table to illustrate typical scenarios:
| Scenario | Lock only | Installation cost | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic retrofit (simple deadbolt swap) | ~$100–$150 | $50–$100 | ~$150–$250 |
| Mid-range smart lock + install | ~$200–$300 | $100–$200 | ~$300–$500 |
| Premium smart lock + hub + pro install | $300+ | $200+ | $500+ |
If you’re tight on budget, planning around ~$250 is reasonable for a solid smart lock install in many cases. But let’s dig into why costs vary so widely.
Key Factors That Influence Installation Pricing
Understanding these variables helps you anticipate where your cost will land.
Type of Smart Lock
Not all smart locks are created equal. A basic keypad-only model is easier (and cheaper) to install than a full WiFi/biometric lock with smartphone integration. For example, the manufacturer’s guidance estimates professional installation labour between $100–$400, depending on complexity.
A basic lock might drop into existing deadbolt holes; a high-end model may require new wiring or hub installation, raising cost.
Door Material and Condition
If your door is wood, drilled for a standard deadbolt, and in good shape, installation is straightforward. But if it’s metal, old or misaligned, or requires drilling a new hole, expect labour and hardware to increase. One cost site notes that when the door needs extra work, the price rises.
Wiring and Power Setup
Some smart locks are battery-only (simpler); others integrate with home systems or require power/hub wiring (more complex). If your installation involves linking to a WiFi network, home automation hub, or existing security system, that adds labour and cost. Example: a pro install may include hub setup with a quote between $200-$350 in some cases.
Local Labour Rates and Region
Where you live matters, urban versus rural, region with high cost of living versus more modest markets — labour rates vary. For instance, one cost table shows installation in the Northeast being higher than in some rural areas.
Also, emergency or off-hours installs often cost more.
Additional Hardware and Accessories
Don’t forget extras: a WiFi bridge or hub, smart home integration, extra sensors, reinforcement plates, or extended warranties. These add up. One guide states that locks with Wi-Fi/Z-Wave cost more, and the installation includes more setup time.
Thus, your “cost to install smart lock” is really lock hardware + labour + accessories.
DIY vs Professional Installation
This is where many homeowners weigh trade-offs. Let’s examine both sides.
DIY Installation
If you are comfortable with tools, drilling, following instructions and syncing a smartphone app, you can install a smart lock yourself. Manufacturers and guides suggest that many models are designed for homeowner installation. For example, one cost site notes labour can be as low as $50-$100 if you’re doing it yourself.
Advantages: you save labour costs. Disadvantages: risk of mis-installation (bolt misalignment, door binding, connectivity issues), which could compromise security or void warranty.
Professional Installation
Hiring a pro (licensed locksmith or skilled installer) adds cost, but also adds reliability. One widely cited figure: a professional install typically falls between $100–$400 in labour, depending on complexity.
Pros: accurate alignment, full setup (especially if smart-home integration), warranty preserved, fewer mistakes. Cons: higher cost and scheduling may be required.
Comparison Table
| Aspect | DIY | Professional |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Lower (hardware only) | Higher (hardware + labour) |
| Time | Depends on your skill | Usually faster, fewer errors |
| Risk | Higher if mistakes made | Lower, more assured installation |
| Warranty & integration | Might void or complicate | Clean, full installation with support |
If you’re doing a basic retrofit and are comfortable with DIY, doing it yourself might save some money. But if you have a complex door, multiple integration points or want the job done right the first time, professional installation is often the smarter investment.
Detailed Cost Breakdown: From Hardware to Labour
To make sense of the numbers, let’s unpack each component of your bill.
Smart Lock Hardware Cost
The cost of the lock itself varies widely depending on brand, features and connectivity. One guide shows typical lock costs (without install) as:
- Keypad models: ~$70-$290
- Bluetooth models: ~$130-$210
- Wi-Fi/Z-Wave: ~$170-$330
- Meanwhile, retail listings show locks ranging from ~$79 to ~$319 and beyond.
Labour and Installation Fees
Labour cost depends on complexity and the installer’s rate. One calculator site lists basic installation cost as approx $93-$222 per lock in 2025, for simpler installs.
Another site lists locksmith “smart lock installation” rates of ~$150-$400.
In sum: budget ~$100–$300 for standard labour, more if complexity increases.
Add-On Costs
These are often overlooked. Expect these to add $25–$150+: potentially
- WiFi bridge/hub: adds ~$40–$80 (or more).
- Door reinforcement (strike plate upgrade, door alignment): $25–$60.
- Smart-home integration (Alexa, Google, Apple): may include more time/setup.
- Emergency or after-hours service: adds a premium.
- As one guide warns, additional features inflate cost.
Total Example Estimates
Here are sample scenarios to illustrate how numbers map out:
Scenario A (Budget retrofit):
- Hardware: $120 (basic smart deadbolt)
- DIY install (you do the labour)
- Total cost: ~$120–$150
Scenario B (Mid-range with pro install):
- Hardware: $220
- Labour: $150
- Add-ons (WiFi bridge + reinforcement): $50
- Total cost: ~$420
Scenario C (Premium lock + full integration):
- Hardware: $350
- Labour: $250
- Hub/integration: $100
- Total: ~$700
These reflect the variation you’ll see in marketplace and service quotes.
How Different Smart Locks Affect Your Bill
Brand matters, both for hardware cost and potentially for labour complexity. Some locks are plug-and-play retrofit, others require additional wiring or modules.
- August Smart Lock: Designed for retrofit, often simpler to install, which keeps labour down.
- Schlage Encode / Encode Plus: Popular, built-in WiFi models — higher hardware cost, possibly more installation time.
- Yale Assure series: Some models require an add-on module for full smart home integration — extra cost hidden.
- Eufy Smart Lock: Manufacturer blog quotes labour $100-$400 depending on complexity.
For brands that offer deeper smart-home integration or speciality finishes, you’ll pay more for the lock — and potentially more for labour. If your installation uses a standard retrofit deadbolt and you stick to simpler models, the cost stays lower.
Regional and Service-Based Price Differences
Where you live and the service you hire make a difference.
- One survey shows installation costs in different U.S. regions ranging broadly: for example Northeast $180-$600+; the Northwest is lower.
- Urban markets with higher labour rates will typically charge more.
- Emergency or off-hours calls will cost more.
- Local locksmith service fees may have minimums/travel fees.
Tip: When you request quotes, ask: “What’s included?” “Is any door prep or reinforcement extra?” “Is remote set-up included?” Getting 2-3 quotes helps you benchmark local pricing.
Hidden or Overlooked Costs Homeowners Miss
Even when you’ve budgeted hardware + labour, there can be surprises.
- Door Modification or Alignment: If the door has sagged, the deadbolt doesn’t engage smoothly, or you need a filler plate — add cost. One how-to guide warns that misalignment can turn a simple job into much more.
- Firmware or App Setup Costs: Some installers include the lock app setup, virtual key creation, and hub registration; others charge extra.
- Battery Replacement or Maintenance: Smart locks often run on AA batteries or rechargeable packs. Neglecting this might lead to service calls.
- Integration with Existing Smart Home System: If your lock needs to talk to your hub (Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit), installation time rises.
- Warranty/Support: If installation is DIY and then fails, the warranty might be void; a professional install may preserve full support and reduce long-term costs.
By flagging these ahead of time, you avoid being surprised on your invoice.
How to Save Money Without Compromising Security
Yes, you can save — but don’t skimp on what really matters.
- Choose a simpler lock if your needs are modest: If you want keyless entry and basic remote control, a less expensive model may do the job.
- Bundle installation with other services: If you have other home-improvement jobs (door realignment, strike plate upgrade), ask for a combined quote. One cost site advises that combining jobs often lowers the effective hourly rate.
- Install yourself, but only if confident: If you’re comfortable with tools and your door is in good shape, DIY saves labour. But be realistic about your ability.
- Request multiple local quotes: Because regional rates vary, solicit 2-3 quotes to compare.
- Ask what’s included: Does the installer include app setup, hub integration, battery pack, door prep and alignment? If not, you’ll pay extra later.
- Don’t skip quality: A cheap lock plus poor install might cost less today, but lead to security issues or lock replacement later, which adds cost.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Installing Smart Locks
These are the kind of “ouch” mistakes that cost you time or money.
- Installing on a misaligned door: If the latch binds, that drains battery and leads to failure.
- Ignoring connectivity: Installing a smart lock without considering WiFi or hub signal strength may leave features disabled or unreliable.
- Forgetting mechanical backup: Many people choose a smart lock and rely solely on app control, but power failure or app issues may leave you locked out unless a manual key backup remains.
- Not verifying compatibility: Before purchasing the lock, check your door thickness, deadbolt type, and smart-home system compatibility.
- Skipping future-proofing: If you anticipate using voice assistants or home automation, choose a lock compatible from the start — upgrading later costs more.
FAQs
How much does it cost to install a smart door lock in 2025?
Depending on hardware, labour, and complexity, expect $150 to $500+ for a full installed solution. Hardware alone may cost $100-$300; professional labour generally adds ~$100-$300.
Can I install a smart lock myself without a locksmith?
Yes, many models are designed for DIY installation — especially retrofit deadbolts. But if the door needs modification, wiring, hub setup, or you lack tools or confidence, hiring a pro is advisable.
How long does smart lock installation take?
For a standard retrofit deadbolt on a properly prepared door: 30–60 minutes. If door prep, hub setup or advanced integration are required, it could take 1–2 hours or more.
What affects the price the most — labour or lock type?
Both matter. The type of lock (basic vs WiFi/biometric) drives hardware cost and installation complexity; labour time and local rate also heavily influence total cost. Accessory hardware and door condition also impact cost.
Does installing a smart lock void my door warranty or home insurance?
Not necessarily — but you should check both. Make sure the lock installation meets the manufacturer’s guidelines, and let your insurance provider know if your security system is upgraded — this could even reduce premiums.
How much do locksmiths charge per hour for smart lock installation?
Labour rates vary by region, but $50–$100/hr is common for a standard job. For complex work or emergency service, rates may be higher.
What’s the cheapest way to install a smart lock safely?
Pick a simple retrofit model that fits your existing deadbolt, verify DIY install is feasible for you, compare local labour quotes if hiring help, and bundle installation with other door/lock jobs to reduce hourly overhead.
Conclusion
Installing a smart lock is more than a spending decision — it’s an upgrade in convenience, security, and future-proofing your home. For most homeowners, budgeting around $250–$400 covers the bulk of likely installations — hardware, labour and basic extras combined. Of course, if you choose a premium model or require complex door/hub work, you may pay $500+ — but you’ll be getting a higher level of integration or future-proofing.
If forced to pick one figure, expect to pay around $250 for a reliable, well-installed smart lock in a standard home. When you factor in the value of keyless entry, remote control, guest codes, and monitored access, the cost often pays for itself over time.
Ready to make the upgrade? Take a moment now: compare 2-3 local installers, choose a smart lock brand with strong support (brands like August, Schlage, Yale or Eufy are good places to start), inspect your door condition, and make your purchase with confidence.
When you’re ready, check our full guide on the best smart locks of 2025 and find the right fit for your home — then quote out the installation cost today and lock in your peace of mind. Your home’s next chapter starts with the right smart lock installed… let’s get it done.
