Pest presence in American homes is a significant public health concern, with around 14 million out of 124 million occupied residences reporting roach sightings in the last year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Additionally, nearly 14.8 million noted encounters with rodents like mice or rats.
Common household pests like ants, roaches and rodents thrive in the dark. Before you know it, a pest problem can quickly become an infestation. But just how much does an exterminator cost?
Key takeaways:
The average exterminator costs between $200 and $500 per visit.
Extermination costs depend on the type, size and severity of the infestation.
Ants, fleas and spiders are among the cheapest pests to exterminate at $500 or less.
Bedbugs and termites are the most expensive pests to get rid of at up to $5,000 in extermination costs.
Common pest problems and their costs
Typically, a single pest control visit costs between $200 and $500 for most minor pest issues. Major pest issues, such as a termite infestation, can cost thousands for a single treatment. The average exterminator price can vary by pest type and treatment type, among other factors we’ll discuss later.
Exterminator costs by pest type
The table below summarizes the average expenses of extermination by common pest type.
Average exterminator costs for common pests
|
Average extermination cost
|
|
|---|---|
| Ants | $100 - $500 |
| Bedbugs | $350 - $5,000 |
| Cockroaches | $100 - $600 |
| Fleas | $75 - $400 |
| Mosquitoes | $70 - $500 |
| Rodents | $180 - $600 |
| Silverfish | $100 - $300 |
| Spiders | $100 - $300 |
| Termites | $200 - $2,500 |
| Ticks | $200 - $500 |
| Wasp | $100 - $1,300 |
Source: Angi
Typical extermination approaches and pricing
From chemical treatments to web removal, here are a few extermination approaches and their average price ranges to consider:
- Chemical treatments: For pests like ants and roaches, chemical treatments are ideal, and prices can vary depending on what they target. For example, ant mound chemical treatments can cost up to $500, while fumigation can cost up to $4,000.
- Heat treatments: Ideal for bedbugs, prices vary from $1 to $3 per square foot and can cost $3,000 or more depending on the size of the home and extent of the infestation.
- Termite treatment: Expect costs between $400 and $1,500 for most treatments and termite tenting with fumigation can cost $1 to $4 per square foot.
- Traps and bait stations: Effective for rodents, installation costs range from $150 to $500.
- Wasp nest removal: Wasp nest removal varies between $200 to $875.
Depending on the infestation, treatment plans may be on the lower end for the initial visit and include rates for follow-up visits.
Chemical vs. nonchemical treatments
When considering pest control methods, you typically have a choice between chemical and nonchemical treatments:
- Chemical treatments provide quick and efficient results, especially for severe infestations. They can be cost-effective initially, with prices ranging from $100 to $500. However, there may be health and environmental concerns due to the chemicals.
- Nonchemical treatment methods are typically safer for the environment and can be less harmful to humans and pets. They may require more time and multiple applications for complete pest removal, making them less effective for severe infestations. Costs can vary and tend to be more expensive than chemical treatments.
The use of chemical or nonchemical treatments depends on the specific pest, the severity of the infestation and your environmental and safety preferences.
Factors affecting extermination costs
Several factors influence extermination costs, including the type of pest infestation, the size and location of your property and the severity of the infestation.
Type of pest infestation
Common pests often require less expensive treatments than more challenging infestations like termites or bedbugs. The specific pest type informs the treatments and time needed for effective elimination.
Size and location of your property
Property size and location influence exterminator prices. Larger properties and urban areas may cost more due to the need for more extensive treatment.
Severity of the infestation
More severe cases demand extra time, resources and specialized treatments, resulting in a higher exterminator cost.
Additional fees and considerations
Follow-up visits and maintenance
Significant infestations may require follow-up treatments and a maintenance plan. Costs may vary based on the initial infestation and provider, typically from $100 to $300 per visit.
Specialty services and associated costs
Specialized pest control treatments are tailored to address specific pests, such as termites or bed bugs, with costs varying based on factors like the pest type and severity of the infestation. For example, wood-destroying pests often require a more intensive or complicated treatment program, which can be more costly.
Unique or rare pest infestations
Your local Cooperative Extension Service can put you in contact with university-based entomologists and other specialists who can help you identify the pest. Many pest control companies also employ entomologists who are well-versed in both common and unique infestations. Rare pests require specialized knowledge, so it’s best to seek help from experts who can help you develop a targeted treatment plan before the infestation gets out of hand.
Warranty and guarantee costs
Pest control warranty and guarantee costs differ according to provider and coverage duration. These guarantees offer protection against re-infestations during the specified period. Most reputable companies offer a one-year warranty that costs from $50 to $200.
Weighing DIY pest control vs. hiring a professional
Choosing between DIY and professional pest control requires assessing the infestation’s severity, your capabilities and the cost-effectiveness of hiring an expert. Over-the-counter repellants offered at hardware stores can be a solid solution for a nuisance pest invasion, such as purchasing fly repellent.
“The active ingredients are at a lower percentage than professional-grade products, and many are ready-to-use, reducing risk to people, pets and the environment,” said David Price, the director of technical services at Mosquito Joe, a mosquito, tick and flea control treatment company.
Price points out that a technician can accurately identify pests in their environment and life cycle stage — as well as tailor professional-grade treatments accordingly. Often, you won’t know the extent of an infestation until a professional takes a look.
How to choose the right exterminator
“Buy value, not price,” said Dr. Jim Fredericks, a board-certified entomologist and senior vice president of public affairs at the nonprofit National Pest Management Association (NPMA). “Don’t make a purchasing decision based solely on the lowest cost.”
We also recommend that you:
- Ask friends and neighbors to recommend professional pest control companies they have used that successfully treated the infestation and provided satisfactory service.
- Check the Better Business Bureau for reviews and ratings to help you make an informed decision. Other sites like Google Reviews and Yelp can offer a broader understanding of previous customer experiences.
- Ask to see proper licensing and credentials from the pest management professional who comes to investigate your pest issue. Find out if the pest control company has liability insurance to cover any damages to your house or furnishings during treatment.
- Ask if the company employs Integrated Pest Management (IPM) techniques that minimize the impact on people, pets and the environment.
- Check state pest regulatory agencies to obtain more information about the status of professional pest control companies.
Fredericks also suggested that consumers consider an NPMA QualityPro company. QualityPro companies have undergone a rigorous credentialing program known to set standards of excellence within the pest control industry. You can use NPMA’s “Find a Pest Professional” ZIP code locator to locate a qualified pest management professional near you.
“Before signing a contract, be sure to fully understand the pest species, the extent of the infestation and the work necessary to solve the problem,” Fredericks continued. He stressed that consumers must invest in a professional whose judgment can be trusted when it comes to both advice and treatment. The contract typically outlines the infestation severity, treatment plan, timelines and costs.
How to save on exterminator costs
If you receive a quote with a service guarantee, know what it covers, how long it lasts and what you must do to keep it in force. Some inspections are free, while others involve a fee. Always obtain quotes from more than one pest control company.
If the initial quote is sizable, get bids from several pest management professionals. In general, large infestations will often need multiple follow-up visits from a pest control provider. It’s better to deal with a pest problem early, rather than waiting until the problem is extensive. That may mean investing in a quarterly pest control plan, and some of these visits may be as affordable as $50 a visit.
Additionally, practice regular home maintenance, proper sanitation, and consider DIY or natural remedies for minor infestations. Implement preventive measures such as installing screens and door sweeps, and educate yourself about local pests to take proactive steps. Early detection and a combination of professional expertise and proactive home care can significantly reduce exterminator expenses.
How to prevent pest infestations
Taking proactive measures to prevent an infestation is the smartest approach to pest control. It saves you money and ensures peace of mind in the long run. Fortunately, most prevention measures come down to simple property maintenance:
- Seal cracks and holes outside your home, including entry points for utilities and pipes.
- Store accessible food, including pet food, in airtight containers and clean up food and drink spills right away.
- Regularly trim back tree branches, shrubs and other vegetation from your home’s exterior to deny pests access points.
- Keep basements, attics and crawl spaces well ventilated and dry.
- Store garbage in sealed containers and dispose of it regularly.
- Repair fascia boards and rotted roof shingles as some insects are drawn to deteriorating wood.
- Replace weather-stripping and repair loose mortar around basement foundation and windows.
- Store firewood at least 20 feet away from the house and 5 inches off the ground.
Regularly inspect these areas for ongoing maintenance and remain vigilant about the upkeep of other sections of your property.
Bottom line
Always consider factors like pest type, property size and infestation severity. Account for follow-up visits, warranties, unique pests and specialty services. Get quotes from multiple pest control companies, understand service contracts and prioritize value over the lowest cost.
Early intervention and preventive measures can save you money and peace of mind. Consult a professional for accurate pest identification and treatment advice.
