Rats and mice are a persistent problem in many cities, often requiring rodent control services. The cities with the most rats and mice are usually determined by factors such as sanitation practices, food waste access, and suitable habitats. These rodents can cause significant property damage and can be a serious public health concern in many urban areas, which may make you wonder, what city has the most rats or mice? Keep reading to see Terminix’s list of the 50 most rodent-infested cities from 2023 to see if your city made the list.

top rodent infested cities

What cities have the most rats and mice?

Terminix shares the 50 cities with the most rats and mice across the United States in 2023. Utilizing data from over 300 Terminix branches nationwide, we compiled a list of cities where residents utilized rodent control services most frequently in 2023 within our designated service areas.

  1. New York City, NY

  2. San Francisco-Oakland-San Jose, CA

  3. Los Angeles, CA

  4. Philadelphia, PA

  5. Washington DC

  6. Chicago, IL

  7. Houston, TX

  8. Boston, MA

  9. Dallas-Fort Worth, TX

  10. Atlanta, GA

  11. Baltimore, MD

  12. Sacramento-Stockton-Modesto, CA

  13. Denver, CO

  14. Hartford-New Haven, CT

  15. Cleveland-Akron, OH

  16. Detroit, MI

  17. Tampa-St. Pete, FL

  18. Orlando-Daytona Beach-Melbourne, FL

  19. Indianapolis, IN

  20. Pittsburgh, PA

  21. Cincinnati, OH

  22. Miami-Fort Lauderdale, FL

  23. Memphis, TN

  24. Columbus, OH

  25. Palm Springs, CA

  26. Seattle-Tacoma, WA

  27. Nashville, TN

  28. Little Rock-Pine Bluff, AR

  29. San Diego, CA

  30. Kansas City, MO

  31. Providence-New Bedford, MA

  32. Minneapolis-St. Paul, MN

  33. Oklahoma City, OK

  34. San Antonio, TX

  35. Austin, TX

  36. Harrisburg-Lancaster-Lebanon-York, PA

  37. St. Louis, MO

  38. Louisville, KY

  39. Wilkes-Barre-Scranton, PA

  40. Honolulu, HI

  41. Richmond-Petersburg, VA

  42. West Palm Beach-Fort Pierce, FL

  43. Fresno-Visalia, CA

  44. Mobile, AL-Pensacola, FL

  45. Monterey-Salinas, CA

  46. Portland, OR

  47. Albany-Schenectady-Troy, NY

  48. Ft. Myers-Naples, FL

  49. Bermingham, AL

  50. Jacksonville, FL

What are the signs of a rodent infestation?

Although rodents can sometimes live in the home undetected, there are some tell-tale signs of rats and mice that homeowners can look out for. Common signs of a rodent infestation include:

  1. Small droppings in the home, including the back of drawers and cabinets, and on the floor along walls

  2. Holes or gnaw marks in food packaging

  3. Chewed wires or floor molding

  4. Urine stains in the corner of shelves, the back of drawers, or cabinets

  5. Footprints and tail-drags in dust

  6. Nesting debris found(chewed paper, cardboard, insulation, other fibrous materials)

  7. Scratching or thumping in walls

Preventing rodents in your home

Cities with the most rats and mice often have a high population density, easy access to food, and mild climates. These rodents aren’t just annoying; they can be a serious nuisance and health hazard to your home. They can chew through wires, contaminate food, and transmit diseases. Their droppings can also contain harmful bacteria and parasites. To prevent mice and rats from entering your home, here’s what you can do:

  • Seal possible entry points, such as cracks and openings around doors, windows, and foundations, using durable materials.
  • Store food in airtight containers to reduce attraction.
  • Keep your living spaces clean, promptly removing crumbs and food residues.
  • Regularly dispose of garbage in tightly sealed bins to minimize food sources.
  • Organize cluttered storage areas to limit potential nesting sites.

If you live in one of the most rodent-infested cities, these steps can significantly help lower the risk of a rodent infestation.

TMX tech rodent inspection

When to contact a rodent control professional

When living in cities with the most rats and mice, it's essential to know when to call in the professionals. If you live in one of these most rodent-infested cities and notice signs of rodents, such as droppings, gnawed wires, or unusual noises, contact a professional immediately. Terminix rodent control services address current rodent infestations and incorporate advanced exclusion techniques. Our experienced technicians can assess your situation, develop a tailored treatment plan, and ensure your home is protected. Get started today!

Get rodent control