Figuring out how much pest control costs can feel tough when ants invade your kitchen or you spot rodent droppings in the attic. In this guide, we’ll look at national averages, types of pest services, and regional pricing so you know what to expect in 2025.
Our family has run Better Termite and Pest Control since 1968, and in that time our licensed technicians have refined our approach based on real cost data and homeowner needs. I’ve personally helped hundreds of customers understand their options and find the right service for their budget. Let’s break down the numbers.
Why Homeowners Ask “How Much Does Pest Control Cost”
Pest problems often strike suddenly. One day it’s just dust, the next day you see an ant trail or hear scratching in the walls. At that point, the first question is always: how much does pest control cost?
People call local pest control companies looking for a quick estimate. They want clarity before they hire a professional exterminator. Whether it’s for an annual pest control plan or a one-time treatment, knowing the average cost helps them make smart decisions.
Understanding Pest Control Service Costs in 2025
Professional pest control services vary in scope. A one-time treatment addresses an active infestation, while an annual pest control plan offers routine visits to prevent pests year-round.
| Service Type | Best For | Typical Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| One-time visit | Sudden infestations | $100–$260 |
| Tri-annual plan | Year-round prevention | $300–$900/year |
| Monthly plan | High-pressure areas | $40–$70/visit |
| Bi-monthly service | Organic options | $50–$85/visit |
Each type of pest control service comes with its own pricing structure. Your best choice depends on your pest pressure and budget.
National Average Cost of Pest Control Services
Across the U.S., pest control prices depend on the service frequency and the pest type. According to Today’s Homeowner, the general pest control one-time treatment typically ranges from $100 to $260 for a 1,500 sq. ft. home.
Annual plans break down to:
- $300–$900 per year for tri-annual treatments (three times per year)
- $40–$70 per visit on monthly programs (totaling ~$480–$840 per year)
Of course, pest control costs vary depending on factors like property size and pest pressure.
What the industry data shows
According to the National Pest Management Association, pest control costs have risen about 3-5% annually over the past decade due to increased labor costs and more effective treatment products. However, modern treatments are also more targeted, often reducing the number of visits needed.
2025 Pest Control Costs by Type of Service
Ant and Common Pest Treatment Prices
Treating ants, spiders, or cockroaches in a home often runs $100–$180 for a one-time visit. Many homeowners in Reston spot ant trails in spring and call a tech to treat the foundation and entry points. In my experience, ants are one of the most common complaints we get in the Spring. Most homeowners first notice them in the kitchen or bathroom.
See our guide on Ants for more detailed information.
Termite Control Pricing Overview
Termite control is one of the most costly services due to the threat to your home’s structure. Termite control can range from $200 to $2,500 for a standard subterranean treatment. Annual termite warranties often add $100–$300 per year.
Case Study: Hidden Termite Damage in Alexandria
One situation I always think about happened during my training here. We visited a house in Alexandria, less than a quarter mile from the company owner’s home. The homeowners had no idea anything was wrong until they noticed a small bulge in a window sill near an addition.
That bulge? Termites had eaten up to the paint and were starting to break through. When we entered the crawl space, we found years of termite feeding—tunnels up the walls inside the crawl space that had caused severe structural damage. The repair costs far exceeded what proactive treatment would have been.
This is why I recommend Sentricon proactively. In my experience helping over 100 customers with termite issues, it’s often cheaper and lower stress to prevent than react.
Learn more in our Termite Prevention & Control guide.
Mosquito Control Service Prices
Professional mosquito control costs about $80 to $150 per visit, with a full-season package running $350 to $1,000 depending on yard size. Many choose monthly treatments during mosquito season.
How We Developed Our Mosquito Program
One of the most frustrating pests you can deal with is mosquitoes. My family’s backyard had a serious problem due to the high vegetation and moisture. We actually developed our programs for mosquitoes based on our own yard and trying different approaches.
What ultimately worked was a combination of our IN2Care traps and a topical spray to the vegetation. This stopped the breeding in our yard and reduced mosquito activity dramatically. That’s the approach we now use for our customers.
Check HomeGuide’s breakdown or our mosquito control process article for details.
Rodent Control and Exterminator Rates
Mice extermination averages $150–$300 for initial work, while a rat job might cost $300–$600. According to the National Pest Management Association, rodents invade over 21 million homes each winter.
Our Four-Step Rodent Protocol
I’ve worked in the pest control business since 2015 and am a licensed technician. We get a ton of calls about rats and mice in Old Town Alexandria, which is why we developed our four-step rodent protocol based on this area.
One thing homeowners often hear from competitors is that they need their entire attic re-insulated. In our experience, that’s fairly rare and extremely expensive. Much of the attic work other companies propose isn’t necessarily that effective. Really, the lower-level baiting is what makes the rodent approach work.
See our Ultimate Guide to Rodent Control for advice.
Stinging Insect and Wasp Nest Removal Costs
Removing a wasp, hornet, or bee nest is often a one-time treatment priced between $150 and $300. Complex or hard-to-access nests may run $300–$500.
Key Factors That Affect How Much Pest Control Costs
Several elements affect the cost of pest control:
| Factor | Impact on Price |
|---|---|
| Severity of infestation | Higher severity = more visits needed |
| Square footage | Larger homes require more product |
| Pest type | Termites/rodents cost more than ants |
| Region | Urban areas typically cost more |
| Service frequency | One-time costs more per visit than plans |
| Exclusion work needed | Sealing gaps adds $100–$500+ |
Because prices vary depending on factors like these, always get a personalized quote.
Pest Control Companies: Choosing Between Local and National Providers
When you hire a pest control company, you’ll see a price gap between big brands and smaller, local operators. National chains may offer lower intro rates, but regional experts often know local pests better.
| Provider Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| National chains | Lower intro rates, brand recognition | Less local knowledge, higher turnover |
| Local companies | Know regional pests, personal service | May have smaller service area |
| Family-owned | Deep community roots, accountability | Usually premium pricing |
A licensed pest control company near you will respond quickly and use products vetted for your specific pest challenges. If you want a local feel with over 57 years in the DMV, consider a family-run service.
DIY Pest Control vs Professional Pest Control Service Cost
DIY pest control methods can cost $20–$50 for traps and baits, but they rarely solve large infestations.
| Approach | Cost | Effectiveness | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| DIY products | $20–$50 | Low to moderate | Minor issues |
| One-time pro service | $100–$260 | High | Active infestations |
| Annual plan | $300–$900/year | Very high | Prevention |
While DIY pest control solutions are cheaper up front, professional pest control services deliver long-term value and lower risk of recurrence. Instead of spending hours chasing ants, a pro can knock down the colony and show you how to keep pests out for good.
When DIY Can Backfire
Some pests—especially termites and rodents—can cause expensive damage if not treated properly. A failed DIY attempt can give pests time to spread, turning a $200 problem into a $2,000 repair.
How to Calculate How Much Pest Control You’ll Pay
Want to calculate how much pest control will cost? Use this process:
- Measure your home’s square footage
- Identify the pest type and severity of the infestation
- Ask local companies for one-time vs. plan pricing
- Factor in extra costs like exclusion or specialty treatments
- Compare at least 2-3 quotes before deciding
With these steps, you’ll know how much you’ll pay for pest control before you sign up.
Pest Control Plans & Types of Services in 2025
You can choose a one-time pest control visit or an ongoing pest control plan. Our TriGuard program bundles termite, rodent, and general pest control under one bill at $39/month. It includes tri-annual visits, targeted seasonal treatments, and unlimited callbacks between services.
Green vs Traditional Pest Control Methods and Pricing
Organic pest control solutions use botanical oils, diatomaceous earth, and biological controls. These eco-friendly methods often require monthly service, adding 20-30% to annual costs compared to conventional tri-annual treatments.
| Method | Cost Premium | Frequency Needed | Residual Effect |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conventional | Baseline | Tri-annual | 60–90 days |
| Organic/Green | +20–30% | Monthly | 14–30 days |
| Integrated (IPM) | +10–15% | Quarterly | 45–60 days |
While green methods appeal to many, they may have shorter residual effects. Compare both to find the best fit for your needs.
Pest Inspection Fees and Additional Removal Costs
A pest inspection fee usually runs $50–$100. This covers a licensed technician’s time to inspect your home inside and out. Specialty removal costs—like for ticks or difficult wasp nests—can add $200–$500 per job.
At Better Termite, our 78-point home inspection is included with service plans. We check common entry points, moisture issues, and signs of existing pest activity.
Common Pest Control Jobs and Their Average Cost
Here’s a quick look at common pest control job costs:
| Service | Average Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ant treatment | $150 | One-time visit |
| Termite treatment | $800 | Initial treatment |
| Mosquito control | $120 | Per visit |
| Rodent service | $300 | One-time rate |
| Wasp removal | $200 | Standard nest |
| General pest plan | $500/year | Tri-annual service |
These average prices give you a ballpark for budgeting.
Hiring a Pest Control Company: What to Expect
When you call a reputable pest removal provider, expect:
- A consult with a licensed technician
- A 78-point home inspection by a registered tech
- Initial treatment using products we’d use in our own homes
- A clear seasonal plan targeting pests three times per year
- Unlimited callbacks at no extra charge if pests return
We removed nine harsh chemicals from our treatments, opting for Essentria, Sentricon, and borate-based solutions that passed our internal research. As Certified Sentricon Specialists and members of both the VPMA and NPMA, we follow industry best practices.
Mid-Atlantic Spotlight: Local Pest Control Service Pricing (VA/MD/DC)
In Virginia, Maryland, and D.C., local pest pressures shape pricing. This region sits in a moderate to high termite risk zone, according to Orkin. Heavy summer humidity drives up mosquito control demand, and D.C.’s dense urban layout fuels rodent calls.
Expect in the DMV area:
| Service | Local Price Range |
|---|---|
| Termite control | $500–$2,500 |
| Mosquito visits | $75–$100 each |
| Rodent jobs | $200–$800 |
| General pest | $125–$200 per visit |
Regional costs can be slightly above national averages due to higher labor and living costs.
Conclusion: Is Professional Pest Control Worth It in 2025?
Understanding how much pest control costs helps you avoid surprises and budget for the right service. From one-time treatments to year-round plans like TriGuard, the choice depends on your pest problem, property size, and peace of mind.
While DIY pest control methods can save money up front, professional pest control services offer targeted solutions that often pay off by preventing costly damages and health risks. With over five decades of local experience and 1,000+ five-star reviews, we know what works and what costs to expect.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is pest control on average?
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A general one-time pest control visit costs $100-$260. Annual plans average $300-$900 per year for tri-annual service (three times per year).
Is it worth paying for pest control?
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Professional treatment often costs more up front than DIY, but it reduces the likelihood of recurring infestations and hidden damages, making it cost-effective long term.
What is the hardest pest to get rid of?
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Termites and bed bugs are among the toughest. They can hide deep in structures and often require specialized pest control treatment for full removal.
How much does it cost to pest control a house?
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A typical 2,000 sq. ft. home might cost $170 for a one-time general service and $100-$225 per tri-annual visit (three times per year) in an ongoing plan.
Do pest control prices include follow-up visits?
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Many reputable pest control companies include callbacks in their annual plans at no extra charge if pest issues persist between services.
Can I pay for pest control monthly?
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Yes. Subscription plans like TriGuard let you pay for pest control on autopilot each month without strict contracts.
How often should pest control be done?
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Most homes benefit from tri-annual service (three visits per year). High-pressure areas with heavy pest activity may need monthly treatments.
What affects pest control pricing the most?
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Property size, pest type, infestation severity, and your region all affect pricing. Termite and rodent jobs typically cost more than general pest treatments.
With five years of hands-on experience in the pest control industry, George Schulz is a registered technician with the Virginia Pest Management Association and a proud third-generation professional in a family business that's been protecting homes for over 57 years. He manages and trains a team of service pros while also leading internal research efforts—recently spearheading a deep-dive review of thousands of documents on pest control materials to hand-pick the most kid and pet friendly, most effective solutions tailored specifically for homes in the DC metro area.