How Much Do Locksmiths Make in California?

• DATE: 23 12 25
• BY: Neel Patel

Locksmiths in California don’t just open doors-they open up solid careers. If you’re wondering how much money you can make as a locksmith in the state, the answer isn’t one number. It’s a range shaped by experience, location, specialization, and whether you work for someone or run your own shop.

What’s the average salary for a locksmith in California?

According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and job boards like Indeed and ZipRecruiter, the average hourly wage for a locksmith in California is around $25 to $35 per hour. That translates to roughly $52,000 to $73,000 per year for full-time work. But that’s just the starting point.

Entry-level locksmiths with less than two years of experience often start at $18 to $22 an hour. That’s still above minimum wage in most parts of the state, but it’s not where the real earning potential kicks in. After five years, many locksmiths hit $30 to $40 an hour. And those with specialized skills-like high-security locks, electronic access systems, or commercial safes-can easily clear $50 an hour.

Location matters more than you think

Not all of California is the same when it comes to pay. A locksmith in San Francisco or Los Angeles makes noticeably more than one in Fresno or Bakersfield. Why? Higher cost of living, more demand, and more high-end clients.

In the Bay Area, experienced locksmiths regularly earn $35 to $50 an hour. In Los Angeles, it’s $30 to $45. In smaller cities or rural areas, you’re more likely to see $20 to $30 an hour. But here’s the catch: those lower-paying areas also have lower overhead. Rent for a shop might be half what it costs in downtown San Diego. So your take-home pay might be closer than you expect.

Self-employed vs. working for a company

One of the biggest differences in earnings comes down to who you work for. Locksmiths employed by security companies or hardware stores usually get a steady paycheck but rarely earn more than $45,000 to $60,000 a year, even after years on the job.

Those who own their own businesses? They can make $70,000 to $120,000-or more. Why? Because they keep the full fee from each job. A simple car lockout might net $80 to $150. A commercial safe job? $300 to $800. Add in emergency calls, which often come with a 50% to 100% surge fee, and the numbers add up fast.

But here’s what most people don’t tell you: running your own shop means paying for insurance, tools, marketing, and accounting. You also don’t get paid when you’re sick or on vacation. Still, many locksmiths say the freedom and upside are worth it.

Specialization drives higher pay

Not all locksmiths are the same. The ones who stick to basic key cutting and car locks earn less. The ones who learn advanced skills earn way more.

Here’s what boosts your pay:

• Electronic access systems-installing and programming keycards, biometric locks, and smart home systems. These jobs pay $50 to $100 per hour.
• Commercial safes-opening, repairing, or installing high-security vaults. A single job can bring in $500 to $1,500.
• Alarm system integration-working with companies like ADT or Vivint to sync locks with alarms. This skill is in high demand.
• Forensic locksmithing-helping law enforcement or insurance companies with lock analysis. Rare, but pays $100+ an hour.

Many locksmiths start with basic training, then spend a few hundred dollars on online courses or certifications to add these skills. It’s not mandatory, but it’s the fastest way to double your income.

How to get started in California

To legally work as a locksmith in California, you need a state-issued license from the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS). That means:

1. Being at least 18 years old
2. Passing a background check (no felonies in the last 10 years)
3. Completing 2,000 hours of work experience under a licensed locksmith
4. Passing a state exam

You can get that experience through apprenticeships. Many locksmith shops hire helpers for $15 to $20 an hour and train them on the job. It’s not glamorous work at first-cleaning tools, driving the van, answering phones-but it’s how most successful locksmiths got their start.

There are also trade schools in California that offer 6- to 12-week locksmith programs. These cost between $1,500 and $4,000. They won’t give you the 2,000 hours you need for the license, but they’ll teach you the basics and help you land an apprenticeship faster.

Is it worth it?

Locksmithing isn’t a get-rich-quick job. But it’s one of the few skilled trades where you can start with little money, learn on the job, and build real wealth over time.

Think about it: you don’t need a college degree. You don’t need to carry student debt. You don’t need to work in an office. You work outdoors, solve problems, and get paid to fix things people can’t do themselves. And in a state as big and busy as California, there’s always someone locked out, locked in, or needing a new system installed.

Some locksmiths retire early by building a loyal customer base and selling their business. Others turn it into a side hustle while working another job. Either way, the income potential is real-and it’s growing as more homes and businesses switch to smart locks and digital security.

What’s next if you want to earn more?

If you’re serious about making more money, here’s what to do next:

• Get your BSIS license as soon as possible-it’s the legal gateway to higher-paying work.
• Learn at least one advanced skill: electronic locks, safes, or alarm systems.
• Build a simple website and get listed on Google Maps. Most new customers find locksmiths online.
• Offer 24/7 emergency service. That’s where the big money is.
• Network with property managers, real estate agents, and hotels. They hire locksmiths regularly.

Locksmithing in California isn’t just about picking locks. It’s about building a business around trust, skill, and availability. The people who do it well don’t just make a living-they make a career.

Locksmithing in California offers more than just a paycheck-it offers independence, steady demand, and real growth. Whether you're looking for a career change, a side hustle, or a lifelong trade, this field rewards those willing to learn, show up, and do the work.