How much does an exterminator cost?

Updated: March 26th, 2025

In the battle against unwanted pests, many homeowners consider the value of professional pest control costs. Pest control services go beyond mere convenience – as many pests carry harmful diseases and can even cause damage to your home. While DIY solutions might offer a temporary fix, they fall short of addressing the root of the problem. At Terminix, we have the expertise and equipment needed to treat a variety of pests. We can identify the species, locate the source, and implement a tailored solution that not only helps eradicate the current infestation but also helps prevent future ones.

While your pest control price might seem daunting at first, the investment is well worth the preservation of your home and the peace of mind that comes with knowing the job is done correctly. So, how much does pest control cost, and what determines the price?

Factors that influence price

Calculating the professional pest control cost has many factors. Once you schedule your free inspection, a Terminix technician will be able to give you an accurate pest control estimate. Let’s take a look at what goes into your quote.

Severity of infestation

The severity of an infestation directly influences the pest control cost. When an infestation is severe, it typically requires more resources to manage and eradicate. This is because severe infestations often spread over larger areas and may involve more mature pests or a higher population. Additional treatments are often needed when dealing with severe infestations. Pests in large numbers can be more resilient, with some potentially surviving the initial treatment or being hidden in hard-to-reach places.

Type of pest

The type of pest can also impact how much pest control costs due to a variety of factors. For instance, termites are known for causing substantial structural damage by feeding on wood, which can potentially compromise the integrity of homes and buildings. This damage potential means that termite control often requires more extensive and, consequently, more expensive treatments to protect against them and prevent future infestations.

On the other hand, cockroaches are notorious for their resilience and ability to reproduce quickly. They can survive under a wide range of conditions and are adept at hiding, making their eradication a challenging task that usually requires multiple treatments, thus increasing the exterminator price. In addition, different pests require distinct control methods tailored to their behavior and biology. For example, the approach to controlling a rodent infestation, which might include traps and exclusion techniques, significantly differs from the strategies used for bed bugs, which may require thermal treatment. In addition, some pests have their own coverage outside of our general pest control plans, which can impact the service price:

• Termites

• Bed bugs

• Mosquito + tick

Size of property

Another factor that influences the pest control cost is the size of the property. Larger properties inherently provide more hiding places for pests, which can lead to more extensive infestations that are harder to control and eradicate. These numerous hiding spots require more thorough inspection and treatment efforts, adding to the complexity and duration of the treatment process. The presence of additional structures on larger properties, such as sheds or garages, can also contribute to exterminator prices.

Commercial properties, in particular, often face higher pest control costs not just because of their size but also due to the complexity of their layouts and the potential for larger-scale infestations. Businesses must also adhere to strict regulations regarding health and safety, requiring more specialized pest control solutions that can safely be applied in environments such as restaurants, hotels, and hospitals. These specialized treatments, along with the need for more frequent maintenance visits to comply with regulations, contribute to the pest control price associated with commercial pest control services.

Location

Location plays a significant role in determining how much pest control costs. In urban areas, the demand for pest control services often exceeds that in rural regions, which can lead to higher prices for the convenience of readily available services. Additionally, different regions may encounter varying pest problems based on their climate, geography, and local ecosystems. Regulatory factors also play a role, as some regions may have stricter regulations regarding pesticide use, creating additional costs for compliance.

Frequency of treatment

The pest control price also includes the frequency of treatments, which can vary between single treatments and ongoing maintenance plans. At Terminix, we offer recurring pest control plans that cover the treatment of up to 39 common household pests.1 Once your free inspection is scheduled, a Terminix technician will walk you through a treatment plan and provide an accurate pest control estimate for one-time pest control, triannual pest control, or quarterly pest control costs.

Treatment type

Lastly, the type of treatment needed can also affect exterminator prices. Preventative treatments will typically be less expensive than treating an infestation. Treating an active pest problem requires more materials and can take several services before the pests are eliminated. In addition, certain treatment types can increase the pest control cost. For example, fumigation, which can be used for the treatment of certain termites, requires the property to be entirely sealed off and filled with a pesticide gas that penetrates every nook and cranny. The process is labor-intensive, requires the occupants to vacate the premises for a period of time, and often necessitates the use of specialized equipment and chemicals. Exclusion services can also impact the pest control price, as this treatment requires specialized materials and is labor-intensive.

The value of professional pest control

Choosing professional pest control services is a smart decision that offers numerous benefits. Pests like termites can cost homeowners $5 billion in damages each year, according to the National Pest Management Association.* Our technicians possess the expertise, experience, and equipment necessary to accurately identify the type of pest and the extent of the infestation, ensuring that the most appropriate and effective treatment method is selected.

Common DIY methods such as essential oils or repellents only offer a temporary fix. Professional services have access to more potent products that not only address the current infestation but also help prevent future occurrences. At Terminix, we take a comprehensive approach to pest management – helping you save time and money in the long run, providing peace of mind and an environment protected from pests.

*National Pest Management Association. https://www.pestworld.org/news-hub/pest-articles/what-is-a-termite-inspection/"What Is a Termite Inspection and Why Do You Need One?" Accessed February 10, 2025

¹To see our Covered Pests, visit Terminix.com/pest-control/pestfree365