There are currently an estimated 18,200 locksmiths in the United States. The locksmith job market is expected to shrink by -11.5% between 2022 and 2032.

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 need 2,800 locksmiths. That number is based on the retirement of 4,900 existing 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 Texas, California, Florida

Locksmith job market by state

State Name Employed Locksmiths
Texas 1,880
California 1,880
Florida 1,430
New York 1,070
New Jersey 1,050
Illinois 680
Georgia 580
Washington 530
Ohio 510
Michigan 480
Virginia 460
Pennsylvania 410
Maryland 390
Massachusetts 380
Louisiana 370
North Carolina 360
Alabama 360
Minnesota 300
Tennessee 290
South Carolina 280
Colorado 280
Wisconsin 240
Kentucky 230
Indiana 230
Missouri 230
Oregon 210
Iowa 210
Rhode Island 170
Nevada 170
Utah 160
Arkansas 140
Connecticut 130
Maine 120
Kansas 110
New Mexico 110
Mississippi 100
Oklahoma 100
New Hampshire 90
North Dakota 70
Nebraska 70
Montana 70
West Virginia 50
Delaware 50
Idaho 40
Alaska 40
District of Columbia 30