How Much Does Pest Control Cost in 2026? Complete Pricing Guide

Understanding Pest Control Costs in 2026

One of the most common questions homeowners ask when dealing with a pest problem is: "How much is this going to cost me?" It's a fair question, and the answer depends on several factors including the type of pest, the severity of the infestation, the size of your property, your geographic location, and whether you need a one-time treatment or ongoing service.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down pest control costs for 2026, covering everything from common household pests to specialty treatments. We'll help you understand what drives pricing, how to evaluate quotes, and how to get the best value for your pest control dollar. Our goal is to give you the information you need to make an informed decision — whether you're dealing with a current infestation or looking to set up preventive service.

Pricing Disclaimer: The costs listed in this guide are national averages and estimates based on industry data. Actual prices vary by provider, location, property size, and infestation severity. Always get multiple quotes from licensed professionals for your specific situation. At Exterminator Near Me, our partner professionals provide free inspections and customized quotes.

Average Pest Control Costs by Pest Type

Different pests require different treatment approaches, equipment, and expertise levels, which is why pricing varies significantly by pest type. Here's what you can expect to pay in 2026:

General Pest Control (Ants, Spiders, Common Insects)

General pest control covers the most common household invaders — ants, spiders, silverfish, earwigs, centipedes, and similar insects. These treatments typically involve a combination of interior and exterior applications using liquid sprays, granular baits, and dust formulations.

• One-time treatment: $175–$350
• Quarterly service plan: $100–$200 per visit ($400–$800/year)
• Monthly service plan: $50–$100 per visit ($600–$1,200/year)

A quarterly maintenance plan is the most popular choice for general pest prevention, as it provides year-round protection against seasonal invaders at a reasonable cost. Most plans include unlimited service calls between scheduled visits at no extra charge.

Cockroach Control

Cockroach treatment costs depend heavily on the species and severity. German cockroaches, which infest kitchens and bathrooms in large numbers, are more challenging and expensive to treat than occasional invaders like American cockroaches or Oriental cockroaches.

• One-time treatment (mild): $175–$300
• Full treatment (German cockroaches): $300–$600
• Severe infestation with follow-ups: $500–$1,200
• Ongoing prevention plan: $100–$175/quarter

German cockroach infestations almost always require multiple treatments over several weeks because eggs (oothecae) that are present during the initial treatment will hatch after the fact. Expect at least 2-3 follow-up visits for effective control.

Rodent Control (Mice and Rats)

Rodent control involves more than just setting traps. A comprehensive service includes inspection, exclusion (sealing entry points), trapping, sanitation recommendations, and follow-up monitoring. This is more labor-intensive than insect control, which is reflected in the pricing.

• Basic mouse control (trapping + sealing): $200–$500
• Comprehensive rodent exclusion: $500–$2,500
• Rat control with extensive exclusion: $500–$3,000
• Ongoing rodent monitoring: $75–$150/month

The wide price range for exclusion reflects the variation in how many entry points need to be sealed. A newer home may only need a few gaps addressed, while an older home with a stone foundation might require extensive work. Professional exclusion is the most effective long-term rodent solution — without sealing entry points, new rodents will simply replace the ones you've removed.

Termite Treatment

Termite treatment is among the most expensive pest control services because it requires specialized equipment, materials, and expertise. The stakes are also higher — untreated termites can cause tens of thousands of dollars in structural damage. There are two main treatment approaches:

• Liquid barrier treatment: $1,500–$4,000+ (depending on linear footage)
• Bait station system (installation): $1,200–$3,500
• Bait station monitoring (annual): $300–$500/year
• Spot treatments (localized): $250–$800
• Fumigation (severe/drywood termites): $2,500–$8,000+

Most reputable termite treatment companies offer warranties ranging from 1-5 years, with annual renewal options. The warranty covers re-treatment if termites return and may cover repair costs in some cases. This warranty is a significant value and should be a key factor in choosing a provider.

Bed Bug Treatment

Bed bug treatment is specialized and has become a significant industry segment over the past decade. Costs are among the highest in residential pest control due to the difficulty of elimination and the labor-intensive nature of treatments.

• Chemical treatment (per room): $300–$600
• Whole-home chemical treatment: $1,000–$3,000
• Heat treatment (per room): $500–$800
• Whole-home heat treatment: $2,000–$5,000
• Canine inspection: $200–$500

Heat treatment is the gold standard for bed bug elimination — it kills all life stages (adults, nymphs, and eggs) in a single treatment by raising room temperatures to 130-140°F. While more expensive upfront, it's often more cost-effective than multiple chemical treatments and has a higher success rate. Many pest control companies now offer combination approaches that use both heat and targeted chemical applications.

Mosquito Control

Mosquito control services have become increasingly popular, especially in areas with concerns about mosquito-borne diseases like West Nile virus and Zika virus. These services typically involve regular yard treatments throughout mosquito season.

• One-time yard treatment: $150–$350
• Monthly treatment plan (seasonal): $75–$150/visit
• Season-long plan (6-8 treatments): $500–$1,200
• Mosquito misting system installation: $2,000–$5,000

Tick Control

Tick control is essential in many parts of the country, particularly the Northeast, upper Midwest, and Pacific coast where Lyme disease is prevalent. Services typically involve perimeter yard treatments targeting tick habitats.

• One-time yard treatment: $150–$300
• Seasonal program (3-5 treatments): $350–$800
• Combined tick + mosquito program: $500–$1,200

Wildlife Removal

Wildlife removal — including squirrels, raccoons, bats, opossums, and birds — requires specialized licensing and humane trapping/exclusion methods. Pricing varies significantly based on the animal and the complexity of the situation.

• Squirrel removal + exclusion: $300–$1,500
• Raccoon removal + exclusion: $400–$2,000
• Bat exclusion: $500–$3,000
• Bird removal/deterrent: $300–$2,000
• Trap rental and monitoring: $75–$150/visit

Factors That Affect Pest Control Pricing

Understanding what drives pest control costs helps you evaluate quotes and make informed decisions. Here are the primary factors:

Property Size

Larger homes and properties require more product, more time, and more labor to treat effectively. Most pest control companies price based on square footage for interior treatments and linear footage for perimeter treatments. A 1,200 sq ft apartment will cost significantly less to treat than a 4,000 sq ft home with a large yard.

Severity of Infestation

A minor pest issue caught early is always less expensive to resolve than a severe, established infestation. Early detection and treatment not only costs less in pest control fees but also prevents the secondary costs of property damage, contamination, and health issues. This is why we consistently recommend regular inspections and prompt treatment at the first sign of pest activity.

Type of Treatment

Different treatment methods have different cost profiles. Chemical barrier treatments are generally less expensive than heat treatments or fumigation. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approaches, which combine multiple methods for long-term results, may have higher upfront costs but lower long-term expenses. The best treatment for your situation depends on the specific pest, your property, and your preferences regarding chemical use.

Geographic Location

Pest control costs vary by region due to differences in cost of living, pest pressure, and market competition. Here's how costs compare across different regions:

• Northeast (NY, NJ, PA, CT): 10-20% above national average — higher labor costs, dense housing requires more complex treatments, heavy termite and rodent pressure
• Southeast (FL, GA, TX, SC): Near national average — year-round pest pressure increases demand, competitive market keeps prices in check
• Midwest (OH, IL, MI, MN): 5-10% below national average — seasonal pest pressure, lower cost of living
• West Coast (CA, WA, OR): 10-25% above national average — highest labor costs, drought-related pest issues, strict regulatory requirements
• Mountain West (CO, AZ, UT): Near national average — unique pest challenges but moderate costs

Frequency of Service

One-time treatments are more expensive per visit than scheduled service plans. Most pest control companies offer significant discounts for quarterly or monthly service contracts because recurring revenue is valuable to their business. A quarterly plan might cost $100-$175 per visit, while a one-time treatment for the same service could cost $250-$400.

Warranty and Guarantee

Services with strong warranties and satisfaction guarantees may cost slightly more upfront but provide better value overall. A quality pest control provider should guarantee their work and offer free re-treatment if the pest problem persists between scheduled visits.

Specialty Pest Services and Their Costs

Beyond the common pest categories, several specialty services address unique situations:

Crawl Space Encapsulation

Crawl space encapsulation involves sealing your crawl space with vapor barriers, insulation, and sometimes dehumidification systems to prevent moisture-related pest issues. While not a pest control service per se, it addresses the root cause of many pest problems — moisture.

• Basic vapor barrier installation: $1,500–$3,000
• Full encapsulation with dehumidifier: $5,000–$15,000
• Pest-related crawl space treatments: $300–$800

Attic Remediation and Insulation Replacement

After a wildlife or rodent infestation in the attic, contaminated insulation often needs to be removed and replaced. This service includes removing droppings, sanitizing surfaces, and installing new insulation.

• Insulation removal and replacement: $2,000–$6,000
• Sanitation and decontamination: $500–$1,500
• Combined with rodent exclusion: $3,000–$8,000

Pre-Purchase Pest Inspections

Before buying a home, a professional pest inspection is essential. This goes beyond a general home inspection to specifically evaluate termite activity, wood-destroying organisms, wildlife damage, and overall pest vulnerability.

• Standard pest inspection: $75–$200
• WDI (Wood Destroying Insect) report: $75–$150
• Comprehensive inspection with thermal imaging: $200–$400

Many mortgage lenders require a WDI report before finalizing a home loan, particularly for VA and FHA loans. Even if not required, this inspection is one of the smartest investments you can make when purchasing a property — discovering termite damage or an active infestation before closing gives you negotiating leverage and protects you from inheriting someone else's pest problems.

Commercial Pest Control

For business owners, pest control costs are generally higher due to larger spaces, stricter regulatory requirements (especially in food service), and the need for more frequent service. Here's a general overview:

• Small office/retail: $150–$300/month
• Restaurant/food service: $200–$500/month
• Warehouse/industrial: $300–$1,000/month
• Multi-unit residential (per unit): $50–$100/month

Understanding Pest Control Contracts and Terms

Before signing a pest control contract, understand these key terms and provisions:

Service Guarantee

A quality pest control company should guarantee their work. This typically means they'll return for free re-treatment if pests reappear between scheduled visits. Look for companies that offer a satisfaction guarantee or money-back guarantee on their services. Ask specifically what happens if the treatment doesn't work — will they re-treat at no charge? Is there a limit on free call-backs?

Contract Length and Cancellation

Many pest control companies offer annual contracts with monthly or quarterly payments. Before signing, understand the cancellation policy — can you cancel at any time, or is there a penalty for early termination? Some companies require 30-60 days' notice for cancellation. We recommend avoiding long-term contracts with heavy cancellation penalties, especially if you haven't used the company before.

What's Included vs. Extra

Make sure you understand exactly what's included in your service plan. A "general pest control" plan typically covers common insects (ants, spiders, silverfish, etc.) but may not include rodents, termites, bed bugs, mosquitoes, or wildlife. Ask specifically about each pest type you're concerned about and get written confirmation of what's covered.

Insurance and Liability

Ensure the company carries general liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage. Ask for a certificate of insurance. If a technician is injured on your property or if the treatment causes damage to your home, proper insurance protects you from liability. Any reputable pest control company will readily provide proof of insurance.

One-Time Treatment vs. Recurring Service Plans

One of the biggest decisions you'll make is whether to get a one-time treatment or sign up for an ongoing service plan. Here's how to think about it:

When One-Time Treatment Makes Sense

• You have a specific, isolated pest problem (e.g., a wasp nest, a single ant trail)
• You're preparing to sell your home and need a clean bill of health
• You need a termite inspection or treatment before a real estate closing
• You have a pest issue that can be resolved in one visit (e.g., bee removal)

When Recurring Service Is Worth the Investment

• You live in an area with year-round pest pressure
• Your home is older and prone to pest entry
• You've had recurring pest issues in the past
• You want preventive protection to avoid infestations
• Your property borders wooded areas, waterways, or agricultural land
• You want the peace of mind of knowing a professional is monitoring your home regularly

For most homeowners, a quarterly service plan represents the best balance of cost and protection. It provides four scheduled treatments throughout the year (typically aligned with seasonal pest transitions) and usually includes unlimited service calls between visits if you notice any pest activity.

How to Get the Best Value on Pest Control

Here are proven strategies for getting quality pest control at a fair price:

Get Multiple Quotes

Always get at least three quotes from licensed pest control companies before making a decision. This gives you a sense of the market rate in your area and helps you identify outliers — both unusually cheap quotes (which may indicate cut corners) and expensive ones. Make sure each company conducts an actual inspection rather than quoting sight-unseen.

Ask the Right Questions

When evaluating pest control providers, ask these key questions:

• Are you licensed and insured in this state?
• What certifications do your technicians hold?
• What specific treatment method will you use?
• How many visits will the treatment require?
• What guarantee or warranty do you offer?
• Are there any additional costs beyond the quoted price?
• What happens if the treatment doesn't work?
• Do you use Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approaches?
• Can you provide references or reviews from local customers?

Look for Value, Not Just Price

The cheapest quote isn't always the best value. Consider the company's reputation, warranty, treatment methods, and included services. A company that charges $250 for a thorough treatment with a 90-day guarantee is better value than one that charges $150 for a basic spray with no follow-up.

Take Advantage of Free Inspections

Most reputable pest control companies, including our network of professionals at Exterminator Near Me, offer free initial inspections. Use these to get a professional assessment of your pest situation and a customized quote. There's no obligation, and the inspection alone can provide valuable information about your home's pest vulnerabilities.

Consider Bundled Services

If you need multiple pest services (e.g., general pest control plus mosquito treatment plus termite monitoring), many companies offer bundled packages at a discount. Ask about combining services when you get quotes.

Don't Skip Preventive Service to Save Money

It might seem like a smart move to cancel your quarterly pest service to save $100-$175 per visit. But consider this: a single termite colony can cause $3,000-$8,000 in damage before it's detected. A bed bug infestation can cost $2,000-$5,000 to treat. A rat exclusion project can run $1,000-$3,000. Preventive pest control is one of the most cost-effective ways to protect what is likely your largest financial asset — your home.

Hidden Costs to Watch Out For

When budgeting for pest control, be aware of potential additional costs:

• Initial inspection fees: While many companies offer free inspections, some charge $50-$150 for specialized inspections (termite, wildlife, etc.). Ask upfront.
• Emergency or weekend service: After-hours and weekend calls typically carry surcharges of 25-50%.
• Repair costs: Pest control treats the pests, but you may need separate contractors for repairs — termite damage, rodent-chewed wiring, insulation replacement, etc.
• Preparation requirements: Some treatments (bed bugs, fumigation) require you to prepare your home, which may involve laundry costs, temporary storage, or hotel stays.
• Follow-up treatments: Make sure your quote includes any necessary follow-up visits. Some companies quote low for the initial treatment, then charge full price for required follow-ups.
• Warranty renewal fees: Termite warranties typically require annual renewal fees ($150-$300/year) after the initial warranty period.

How to Read and Compare Pest Control Quotes

When you receive quotes from multiple pest control companies, knowing what to compare ensures you make the best decision. Not all quotes are created equal, and the lowest price isn't always the best deal. Here's how to evaluate quotes like a pro:

Scope of Service

Compare exactly what each quote covers. Some companies include interior and exterior treatment in their base price, while others charge extra for exterior service. Some include the garage, attic, and crawl space; others treat only the main living areas. Make sure you're comparing equivalent services — a quote for interior-only treatment should be compared to other interior-only quotes, not to a comprehensive interior/exterior package.

Products and Methods

Ask each company what products and treatment methods they'll use. Companies using modern gel baits, growth regulators, and targeted applications generally deliver better, longer-lasting results than those relying solely on baseboard sprays. IPM (Integrated Pest Management) approaches that combine chemical treatments with exclusion, sanitation recommendations, and monitoring typically provide the best long-term value.

Follow-Up Visits

For pest issues that require multiple treatments (cockroaches, bed bugs, rodents), make sure the quote clearly states how many follow-up visits are included and what additional visits cost if needed. A quote of $200 with two free follow-ups is better value than a $175 quote that charges $100 for each follow-up.

Warranty Terms

Compare warranty durations and what they cover. The best warranties guarantee re-treatment at no charge if pests return within the warranty period. Some termite warranties even cover repair costs for new termite damage discovered during the warranty period. Read the fine print — some warranties are voided if you don't maintain the recommended service schedule or if you make structural modifications to your home.

Red Flags in Quotes

• Significantly below market pricing — If a quote is 50% less than competitors, the company may be cutting corners on products, training, or service quality.
• High-pressure sales tactics — Be wary of companies that create artificial urgency ("We can only hold this price until tomorrow") or use scare tactics to upsell unnecessary services.
• No written contract or service agreement — Always get the scope of service, pricing, warranty, and cancellation terms in writing before work begins.
• Demanding full payment upfront — For one-time services, paying upon completion is standard. For service plans, monthly or quarterly billing is normal. Be cautious of companies demanding large upfront payments.
• No license or insurance verification — Every legitimate pest control company should be able to provide their state license number and proof of insurance immediately upon request.

DIY vs. Professional: Is DIY Really Cheaper?

Many homeowners consider DIY pest control to save money. While DIY can work for minor, early-stage problems, here's the real cost comparison:

DIY Costs

• Store-bought sprays and baits: $15-$50 per product
• Traps (rodent): $10-$30 per pack
• Exclusion materials (caulk, steel wool): $20-$50
• Total for a basic DIY attempt: $50-$150

The Hidden Cost of DIY

• Ineffective treatment: Store-bought products are often weaker formulations than professional-grade products, leading to incomplete control and recurring problems.
• Delayed resolution: Spending weeks on DIY attempts while the infestation grows makes the eventual professional treatment more expensive.
• Ongoing damage: Every day termites, carpenter ants, or rodents remain active in your home, they're causing more damage.
• Health risks: Improper pesticide application can expose your family and pets to unnecessary chemicals.
• Misidentification: Treating for the wrong pest wastes money and time. A professional can correctly identify the pest and apply the appropriate treatment.

The bottom line: DIY makes sense for minor, identifiable issues. But for anything beyond a few ants or an occasional spider, professional pest control is more cost-effective when you factor in the risk of ongoing damage, health concerns, and the time value of a quick resolution.

What to Expect When You Hire a Professional

If you've never hired a pest control professional before, here's what the process typically looks like:

1. Initial contact: Call or submit a request online. Describe the pest issue, your property type, and any specific concerns.
2. Inspection: A licensed technician visits your property to assess the situation. They'll identify the pest, evaluate the severity, check for entry points, and develop a treatment plan.
3. Quote and plan: You'll receive a detailed quote outlining the treatment approach, timeline, cost, and warranty. This is the time to ask questions and compare with other quotes.
4. Treatment: On the scheduled date, the technician applies the appropriate treatment. Depending on the pest and method, you may need to vacate the home temporarily.
5. Follow-up: Most treatments require at least one follow-up visit to monitor effectiveness and apply additional treatment if needed.
6. Ongoing maintenance: If you opt for a recurring plan, scheduled visits continue throughout the year.

Pest Control Financing and Payment Options

Larger pest control projects — particularly termite treatment, wildlife exclusion, and bed bug heat treatment — can represent significant expenses. Here are ways to manage the cost:

Payment Plans

Many pest control companies offer in-house payment plans that let you spread the cost of larger treatments over 6-12 months. Some offer 0% interest for qualified customers. Always ask about payment plan options when getting quotes for treatments over $500.

Home Warranty Coverage

Some home warranty programs include pest control coverage, particularly for termites. Check your home warranty policy to see if any pest treatments are covered before paying out of pocket. If you don't have a home warranty, some pest control companies partner with warranty providers to offer bundled packages.

Insurance Considerations

Standard homeowner's insurance does not cover pest damage or pest control costs in most cases. This includes termite damage, which is specifically excluded from most policies because it's considered a maintenance issue. However, some policies may cover sudden and accidental damage — for example, if a pest-related electrical fire damages your home. Check with your insurance agent about your specific coverage.

Tax Deductions

For rental property owners, pest control costs are a legitimate business expense that can be deducted from rental income. Homeowners who use a portion of their home as a home office may also be able to deduct a proportional share of pest control costs. Consult with a tax professional about your specific situation.

Cost-Saving Tips

• Bundle services — Combining general pest control with mosquito treatment, termite monitoring, and/or wildlife prevention usually costs less than purchasing each service separately.
• Pay annually — Many companies offer a 5-10% discount for paying the full annual service fee upfront rather than monthly or quarterly.
• Referral discounts — Ask about referral programs. Many pest control companies offer $25-$50 credit for each new customer you refer.
• New customer promotions — Companies frequently offer first-service discounts or free add-on services for new customers. Don't be afraid to ask about current promotions.
• Seasonal deals — Pest control companies often run promotions in their slower months (January-February in most regions) to fill their schedules. Signing up during off-peak times can save 10-20%.

Getting Started: Your Next Steps

Don't let uncertainty about costs prevent you from addressing a pest problem. The longer you wait, the more expensive the solution becomes — and the more damage pests cause to your property. Here's how to get started:

• Request a free inspection from a licensed professional. At Exterminator Near Me, we connect you with vetted, licensed pest control professionals across NY, NJ & PA.
• Get multiple quotes and compare services, warranties, and reputations — not just prices.
• Ask about financing options — many pest control companies offer payment plans for larger treatments like termite control.
• Consider the long-term — an ongoing prevention plan (starting at around $175 per service) almost always costs less than reactive treatments after infestations establish.

Remember: professional pest control with free inspections is an investment in your home's health, safety, and value. Don't wait until the problem becomes an emergency. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote from a licensed exterminator in your area.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pest Control Costs

Here are answers to the questions our team hears most often from homeowners:

Q: Is it worth paying for pest control if I don't currently have a problem?

A: Absolutely. Preventive pest control is significantly cheaper than reactive treatment. A quarterly plan costing $400-$800 per year protects against infestations that could cost thousands to treat after they establish. Think of it like changing your car's oil — the cost of prevention is a fraction of the cost of repair.

Q: Why does the same service cost different amounts from different companies?

A: Prices vary based on the products used, technician experience and training, warranty strength, company overhead, and included services. A higher-priced company may use superior products, include more follow-up visits, or offer a stronger warranty. Always compare the total value, not just the price.

Q: Can I negotiate pest control prices?

A: Yes, to a degree. Most companies have some flexibility, especially for annual contracts, bundled services, or if you're a referral from an existing customer. The best leverage comes from having competing quotes — companies are more willing to offer discounts when they know you're comparison shopping.

Q: Are natural or organic pest control treatments more expensive?

A: Typically yes, by about 10-20%. Natural and organic treatments often require more frequent applications and larger quantities of product. However, they're a good option for households with chemical sensitivities, small children, or pets with health concerns. Many companies offer hybrid approaches that use natural products where possible and targeted conventional treatments where necessary.