How much does pest control cost in the US?

While persistence is often a virtue, pests like termites demonstrate this trait in ways that cost homeowners dearly. From New York to Los Angeles, pest problems persist, leading to significant expenses. Understanding the factors influencing pest control costs is crucial, so this article aims to provide clarity and guide you in selecting a reputable service.

What are some common US pests and their warning signs?

Numerous pests in the US often appear in hundreds, if not thousands, of homes. Here’s a list of the most common unwanted critters.

Termites

There are many types of termites, and most are relatively harmless because they live in the open country, either on the ground or within trees.

What must concern you, though, are those underground. Cracks or hollow points in your home’s timber indicate that your property is infested by these insects, which thrive in dark and damp conditions. Other indicators of a termite problem in your space are: 

• Uneven flooring.

• Bubbling paint.

• Falling mud.

Statistics show that each year, over 600,000 homes are damaged by termites, with homeowners across the country spending more than $5 billion annually.

Cockroaches

Like termites, cockroaches may appear if some spaces within your property are dark and damp. Unlike termites, though, roaches can eat pretty much anything you eat. This means they’ll produce fecal droppings in places where they hide. 

Cockroaches can also emit unpleasant, musty smells. It is crucial to take action as soon as you spot roaches, as a single female cockroach and her offspring can lead to more than 800 roaches infesting your property within a year.

Cockroaches infesting a dirty kitchen (Source: iStock)

Ants

Ants like damp and dark conditions, too, although you may spot some wandering about your kitchen in search of food. In addition to literal ant trails, mounds are a sign of an ongoing infestation near your home.

Bed bugs

Bed bugs are flat, oval-shaped insects up to 5 mm long, meaning you have a higher chance of waking up with red, itchy spots than seeing the perpetrator of these bites. Although they do not spread diseases, such insects are definitely annoying and can damage your skin and mattress because of their fecal matter or blood.

Rodents

Rodents such as rats and mice harm more than just your mattress. The size of a house mouse ranges from eight to 10 cm in body length, and a black rat can be twice as big.

Some signs of a rat infestation include: 

• 12 to 18 mm long droppings.

• Gnawing, scratching, and squeaking noises in the walls. 

• Pet dogs and cats are more excited than usual. 

Rodents can spread diseases such as E. coli, the plague, and salmonella. Rats and mice have been known to chew through electrical wires, causing fires. Did you know that up to 25% of all fires may be attributed to rats and mice chewing on gas lines and other wiring?

What are the average costs of pest control in the US?

If you’re looking for pest control services, be aware that prices vary widely. Expect to pay more in major cities like New York City and Los Angeles than in less populated areas like El Paso. This is due to the higher demand and the sheer number of older buildings, which are more susceptible to pest problems. 

Keep in mind that prices also vary between professionals, and while local providers may offer cheaper rates, don’t sacrifice quality for cost. Here’s a guide to average pest control prices:

What factors affect the costs of pest control?

Understanding the factors that determine pest control treatment costs can help you budget effectively. Here are the most significant ones:

Pest type 

Exterminator prices depend on the type of pest. Common ones like cockroaches and ants are typically less expensive to treat than termites due to the simpler treatment methods. Termite control, on the other hand, is often costly because of the specialized and environmentally sensitive chemicals involved, as well as the potential need for a pre-treatment inspection.

Termite damage to a wooden doorframe (Source: iStock)

You’ll likely find that wasp, bee, rodent, and bird pest control is more budget-friendly than dealing with termites. Simple solutions like nest removal and traps are often effective. Be mindful that rodent control costs can vary, and always be aware of protected species like bumblebees. For bed bugs, be prepared for higher costs due to their resistance to common treatments.

Infestation level

The extent of the infestation directly impacts pest control charges. Multiple treatments may be necessary to completely eradicate pests and prevent future infestations from surviving insects. Termite infestations, in particular, can be extremely costly due to potential structural damage, making understanding the associated expenses crucial for homeowners.

Property size

Property size significantly impacts exterminator costs. Larger properties require more extensive treatment, including sealing entry points, resulting in higher expenses. Additionally, gardens increase the likelihood of dealing with pests like rats and aphids, potentially adding to the overall cost. External treatments, such as garlic or hot pepper spray, can help prevent their return.

Treatment method and frequency

Pest control pricing fluctuates based on the chosen treatment methods and the frequency of application needed for long-term prevention. Some methods are inherently more expensive. Physical barriers and chemical treatments, for example, require professional installation and ongoing maintenance to remain effective, including expert refilling of chemical powders.

Applying insecticide to a termite-infested area (Source: iStock)

Fumigation is a high-cost pest control method due to the need for sealing and poisonous gas. Other methods, like bird nest removal, are less expensive but require expertise to identify and block entry points. Wasp nest removal is also best handled by professionals to avoid stings. Biological control, using natural predators like ladybugs, is a more affordable option for garden pests.

Here’s a treatment cost list to help you gauge which method leads to an affordable price:

Labor fees

Labor fees significantly impact pest control costs, especially with multiple treatments. Seasonal demand also plays a role, with spring and summer seeing higher prices. If you don’t want to deal with the rush for technicians during the warmer months, schedule preventive treatments in the winter, when most homeowners aren’t combating insect, rodent, or bird infestations.

Additional services

When budgeting for pest control, remember to account for additional services.

• Addressing root causes might require hiring home cleaners or waste collectors. 

• Building inspectors can identify hidden damage and potential entry points. 

•  Expert plumbing repairs may be needed to eliminate damp conditions that attract pests.

Service urgency

Expect higher pest control fees for urgent situations. Disruptive pests requiring immediate action, such as emergency nest removals or rodent elimination, come at a premium compared to scheduled treatments. Quick barrier installations to prevent future issues also increase costs.

What are some ways to save on pest control?

Knowing how much is pest control can be a sobering experience, especially when dealing with termites. Some ways to make a dent in those figures include: 

• Maintaining a clean home to deter insects like ants.

• Sealing visible cracks to prevent unwanted entry of pests.

• Scheduling regular professional pest control. 

• Coordinating with neighbors for joint pest control. 

What should you look for in a pest control expert?

If you’re in the market for professional pest control services, know that businesses offering these must obtain the legally required licenses from authorities in their state. For example, in Alabama, the pesticide license is obtained from the Alabama Department of Agriculture. 

Some states, like Minnesota, have reciprocal agreements with other locations regarding pesticide certification. For instance, a Minnesotan pest control specialist can operate in states such as Iowa, North Dakota, and South Dakota without needing to pass additional exams.

Keep your home pest-free with Airtasker

Don’t wait until it’s unbearable! If pests are invading your home, it’s time for action. Find reliable pest control services on Airtasker to solve the problem quickly. Whether it’s a sole rat scratching your walls or a full-blown termite infestation, finding the right solution doesn’t have to be complicated. Simply post a task on Airtasker and receive personalized quotes!