There are currently an estimated 18,800 locksmiths in the United States. The locksmith job market is expected to shrink by 8.3% between 2024 and 2034.

How employable are locksmiths?

CareerExplorer rates locksmiths with a F employability rating, meaning this career should provide poor employment opportunities for the foreseeable future. Over the next 10 years, it is expected the US will lose -1,600 locksmiths.

Are locksmiths in demand?

The job market for locksmiths is predicted to remain stagnant. The positions created in the field will result solely from the need to replace retirees. No actual growth in this occupation is expected to occur. While there is a continuing need for servicing key-operated mechanical locks, that demand is steadily declining and young people do not seem especially attracted to the traditional locksmith role. New entrants to the field will enhance their marketability by broadening their skills to respond to electronic and computerized security demands. The Certified Alarm Technician course, offered by the Electronic Security Association and endorsed by the Associated Locksmiths of America, is among the specialized training recommended for modern-day locksmiths. Locksmiths who remain up to date with lock and alarm technologies will be best equipped to take advantage of demand in the field created by new construction of residential and commercial properties. As the security industry transitions to electronic locking systems, locksmiths must be willing to change and adapt in order to stay relevant.

What’s the supply of locksmiths?

The locksmith industry is concentrated in California, Florida, Texas

Locksmith job market by state

State Name Employed Locksmiths
California 2,060
Florida 1,440
Texas 1,420
New York 960
Pennsylvania 530
North Carolina 480
New Jersey 480
Illinois 430
Virginia 430
Ohio 400
Colorado 380
Washington 380
Tennessee 340
Georgia 330
Massachusetts 300
Maryland 270
Arizona 260
Indiana 250
Oregon 250
Michigan 230
Missouri 220
Minnesota 220
Alabama 200
Louisiana 190
Oklahoma 180
Utah 180
Nevada 170
Idaho 150
South Carolina 140
Maine 140
New Mexico 140
Wisconsin 130
Connecticut 120
Iowa 120
Kentucky 120
Kansas 110
Montana 110
Arkansas 100
Mississippi 80
Rhode Island 80
Alaska 80
North Dakota 70
Nebraska 50
Hawaii 50
West Virginia 50
Delaware 50
New Hampshire 40