How much does an exterminator cost?

Extermination services include inspections, one-time extermination or removal, recurring services, and preventative measures. Service calls can address pest infestations in any area inside a home, a commercial building or outside on a property.

Pest control specialists help eliminate cockroaches, ants, spiders, rodents, fleas, ticks, mites, bees, hornets, wasps, mosquitos, termites and other creepy crawlies from homes, multi-unit buildings, offices and commercial spaces.

Inspection, one-time extermination or removal, recurring services, and preventative measures are all provided under the auspices of extermination services. Service calls can address infestations in any area inside a home, commercial building or outside on a property.

Many pest control companies ask to see the problem before providing a quote. But generally, some types of pest removal cost more than others because of size, the chemicals used, procedures required and relative danger involved.

Pest control costs (national average):

• General pest control: $125
• Bee extermination cost: $165
• Ant extermination cost: $131
• Rats or mice extermination cost: $197
• Termite inspection: $55-$300
• Termite treatment (chemical or fumigation) estimate: $1,000-$2,500
• Mosquito extermination cost: $77
• Spider extermination cost: $88
• Cockroach extermination cost: $134
• Wasp extermination cost: $129
• Flea extermination cost: $168

The estimated cost for wildlife removal is roughly $475–$575, which includes setting traps, three follow-up visits, infestation removal and prevention of further infestation.

Wildlife removal is an extension of extermination services wherein wild animals are trapped, removed from the premises and safely deposited back into the wilderness. Wildlife could include birds, raccoons or bobcats.

The cost of bed bug extermination varies by house size and type of treatment. Here’s a breakdown of how the size of the affected area affects exterminator costs:

Bed bug exterminator cost by house size (national average):

• One-room bed bug extermination: $302
• Two-room bed bug extermination: $357
• Three-room bed bug extermination: $412
• Four-room bed bug extermination: $466
• Five-room bed bug extermination: $520
• Six-room bed bug extermination: $575
• Seven-room bed bug extermination: $630
• Eight-room bed bug extermination: $684

One-time visits generally cost more than scheduled maintenance visits, which cost less per session over time. Clients may sign up for ongoing treatment (quarterly, bi-annually, etc.) because they live in an insect-prone climate or because the property has had historic issues with infestation. Common household pests like termites, spiders, roaches, mice, rats and ants are often the pests that need ongoing treatment.

Depending on the duration of the infestation, the type of pest and the complexity of the problem, some situations can be harder to remedy than others. Alamo Pest Management says that some infestations may require stronger or different chemicals than a general service treatment, and thus, costs will be higher. The budget can also go up if the exterminator has to use a ladder to reach high or dangerous places, and if treatment area is both inside and outside.

To ensure you hire the best exterminator at a fair, competitive price, utilize the following tips: 

• Count up travel time. Most pest control companies have standard service areas and no travel fees are charged within those areas. However, for extremely rural locations or residences outside of the standard service area, travel fees to cover additional time, mileage and transportation costs may be incurred.
• Ask for a free quote or free estimate: Because of the myriad factors involved in determining treatment, most pest companies provide free, on-site quotes to the gauge level of infestation and action required. This will give you a better idea of costs and the work ahead.
• Read reviews and ratings. Go online to compare pest control services in your area. Read the customer reviews to help identify the best pros to tackle your pest issue.
• Check credentials. Make sure the exterminator you hire is properly licensed, certified and insured in your state and/or city. Visit your local and state governments' websites to find out what the requirements are for pest control services and pesticide applicators.

For more tips on how to hire a pro, visit Thumbtack's Smart Hiring guide.