Locksmiths and Safe Repairers

SOC code 49-9094 · O*NET-SOC 49-9094.00 · Little to some preparation needed · Skilled trades

Locksmiths and Safe Repairers pay

U.S. national figures, May 2025 BLS survey · How we got this number

Median pay

$51,320

a year

Hourly

$24.68

per hour

10th$35,530Median$51,32090th$79,400

The solid band is the middle 50% of workers; the bar spans the 10th to 90th percentile.

Average pay

$55,470

$26.67 per hour

Middle 50%

$43,160 – $64,560

25th to 75th percentile

Full spread

$35,530 – $79,400

10th to 90th percentile

People employed

15,040

nationwide

National U.S. figure, May 2025. Local pay can be higher or lower.

10th percentile: $35,530; $17.08/hr
25th percentile: $43,160; $20.75/hr
Median percentile: $51,320; $24.68/hr
75th percentile: $64,560; $31.04/hr
90th percentile: $79,400; $38.17/hr

What do locksmiths and safe repairers do?

Repair and open locks, make keys, change locks and safe combinations, and install and repair safes.

The tasks that matter most day to day

Cut new or duplicate keys, using impressions or code key machines.
Insert new or repaired tumblers into locks to change combinations.
Move picklocks in cylinders to open door locks without keys.
Cut new or duplicate keys, using key cutting machines.
Open safe locks by drilling.
Set up and maintain master key systems.
Install door hardware, such as locks and closers.
Keep records of company locks and keys.

How to qualify for this work

Most people in this role hold high school diploma or the equivalent (such as a ged) — 62% of workers surveyed reported it as their level of education.

Preparation level: zone 2 — Little to some preparation needed

Education: Usually requires a high school diploma or GED, though some occupations may not.
Experience: Some occupations may need little or no previous experience; others require several months to a year of experience. For example, landscaping and groundskeeping workers might require very little training or previous experience, while agricultural equipment operators can benefit from on-the job training.
Training: Ranges from a few days to one year of on-the-job training.

See all zone 2 occupations →

Education reported by people doing this job

High School Diploma or the equivalent (such as a GED)62%
Post-Secondary Certificate15%
Less than a High School Diploma8%
Some College Courses8%

Common questions

How much does a locksmiths and safe repairers earn?

The national median is $51,320 a year. The full range runs from $35,530 at the 10th percentile to $79,400 at the 90th — entry pay sits closer to the lower figure, and experience, licensing and specialisation move you up the range.

Can you become a locksmiths and safe repairers without a degree?

Yes — this occupation sits in preparation zone 2, meaning the typical entry route is usually requires a high school diploma or GED, though some occupations may not. A four-year degree is not the standard requirement, though licensing or certification may still apply.

Skills and knowledge you need

Core skills

Critical Thinking3.4/5
Active Listening3.1/5
Speaking3.1/5
Reading Comprehension3.0/5

Knowledge areas

Mechanical4.2/5
Customer and Personal Service4.0/5
Public Safety and Security3.8/5
English Language3.5/5
Administration and Management3.5/5
Law and Government3.4/5
Sales and Marketing3.3/5
Education and Training3.3/5

Transferable strengths: Repairing, Time Management, Service Orientation, Quality Control Analysis, Complex Problem Solving, Installation.