How Much Does an Exterminator Cost?

Pests are like that pesky ex-boyfriend or girlfriend you just can't get rid of. They're always popping up when you least expect it and causing a ruckus. But unlike your ex, you can't just block their number and move on. No, pests require a little more elbow grease (or in this case, bug spray) to get rid of.

Let’s face it, we've all been there. You're just about to sit down and enjoy a nice bowl of cereal when you spot a mouse scurrying across your kitchen floor. Or maybe you're trying to sleep, but the sound of ants marching through your bedroom is keeping you awake. Dealing with unwanted critters in the home can be a real pain, and it's only made worse by the question on everyone's mind: how much does an exterminator cost?

Well, thankfully, that's exactly what we're going to talk about today. We'll cover everything from DIY solutions to professional extermination services, and we'll even throw in some tips for preventing critters from entering your home in the first place.

But before we dive in, let's just get the elephant out of the room - we know you're wondering about exterminator cost. So, let's just clear the air and say that the average cost of pest control can range anywhere from $50 to $550 (or more!) depending on the severity of the infestation and the type of critter you're dealing with.

Don't give up hope yet, though —there are ways you can save money on pest control services. Keep reading to learn about some effective methods for handling these uninvited guests without breaking the bank!  

Let’s Start With Critter Identification

First things first, you need to figure out what kind of critter you're dealing with. Is it a mouse or a rat? Ants or roaches? Knowing the specific critter you're dealing with will help you choose the most effective solution.

A good tip is to check for droppings or damage, and take note of the critter's size and appearance. But don't feel bad if you can't identify it, because even experts can make mistakes. Once, I had a customer who swore they had a rat infestation, but it turned out to be just a very large and very lost house cat.

Once you know what you're dealing with, it's time to decide whether you want to try a DIY solution or hire a professional exterminator.

Typical Prices & Estimates for Different Types of Pest Control Services

Pest control cost can vary. However, one thing is for certain - dealing with pests is never cheap. But don't worry, with a little help from your local exterminator, you can kiss those creepy crawlies goodbye and restore peace to your home.

Here are some typical prices and estimates for different types of pest control services:

Ant Extermination

These little buggers can be a real pain, but luckily, they're also one of the most affordable pests to get rid of. Ant extermination typically costs $250 - $500 depending on the size, level, and location of the infestation. So, you don't need to break the bank to keep your home ant-free.

Scorpion Treatments

Scorpions are not only creepy, but they're also venomous. So, if you're dealing with these pests, you'll want to get rid of them ASAP. Scorpion treatments typically cost around $500 - $1000, depending on the severity of the infestation. But trust us, it's worth every penny to avoid getting stung by one of these critters.

Flea Removal

Fleas can be a real nuisance, and they're not just a problem for pets. Flea removal typically costs around $300 - $600, depending on the size of the infestation. But don't let the cost fool you, getting rid of these bloodsuckers is worth it for the peace of mind and the itch-free skin.

It’s better, however, to nip the problem in the bud before it gets out of hand. And always make sure to hire a professional exterminator, don't try to handle a scorpion infestation with a flyswatter.

Cost of Pest Control for Recurring Treatments

When it comes to pest control, it's important to remember that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. And while a one-time treatment might seem like the more cost-effective option, the truth is that ongoing maintenance is key to keeping pests at bay.

Let's start with the average cost of pest control. Generally speaking, a one-time treatment can run anywhere from $150 to $550 (or more), while ongoing monthly or quarterly treatments can range from $50 to $300 per treatment.

Now, you might be thinking, "That's a lot of money! I'll just go for the one-time treatment and call it a day." But the thing is, pests are persistent little buggers. They're always looking for a way in, and if you don't keep up with regular maintenance, they'll be back before you know it. So, in the long run, recurring treatments can actually save you money.

But we know that money doesn't grow on trees (although that would be pretty cool), so how can you budget for recurring pest control treatments? One tip is to set aside a little bit of money each month specifically for pest control. That way, when it's time for your next treatment, you'll have the funds ready and waiting.

And if you're looking to save even more money, try keeping a "pest diary." Write down every time you spot a pest, and note where they were and what they were doing. That way, when you call in the professionals, you'll have a better idea of what's going on and they'll be able to target the problem more effectively.

Factors Affecting the Cost of Pest Control

The cost of pest control can vary greatly depending on several factors. These include the type of pest, the severity of the infestation, the size of the property, and the location. Here are a few examples of how these factors can affect the cost of pest control:

Type of Pests

One of the main factors that affect the cost of pest control is the type of pest you're dealing with. Different pests require different methods of extermination, and some are more expensive to deal with than others.

For example, termites are notoriously difficult to get rid of, while ants can be eliminated with a little bit of bait. The exterminator cost for termites can be quite high, whereas the exterminator cost for ants is relatively low. So, if you're dealing with a termite infestation, be prepared to pay a little bit more for the extermination process.

Severity of the Infestation

The more severe the infestation, the more costly it will be to eliminate it. A few stray cockroaches are one thing, but a full-blown infestation of hundreds or thousands is another matter entirely. The average cost of pest control for a severe infestation will be much higher than for a minor infestation.

Size of the Property

The larger the property, the more resources it will take to eliminate the pests. This includes both the time and materials needed. So, if you have a large property, you can expect the exterminator prices to be a bit higher.

Location

Pest control costs can vary depending on where you live. Urban areas may be more expensive due to higher labor costs, while rural areas may be cheaper due to lower overhead. So, if you live in an urban area, be prepared to pay a little bit more for pest control services.

Additional Services

Exclusion work, such as sealing cracks and holes, can add to the cost of pest control. Also, sanitation, such as cleaning up and removing food sources, can also add to the cost. What’s more? Ongoing maintenance can also add to the cost.

Tips for Keeping Your Pest Control Costs Low When Hiring Pest Control Services

Now that you know what factors affect the cost of pest control, let's talk about some tips for keeping your expenses low.

Regular Maintenance

The best way to keep pests at bay and your costs low is to prevent them from taking up residence in your home in the first place. This includes sealing off entry points, keeping your property clean, and regularly inspecting for signs of infestation. For example, if you notice a few ants marching around your kitchen, it's best to nip that infestation in the bud before it becomes a full-blown ant colony.

Compare Quotes

Before hiring a pest control professional, be sure to get quotes from a few different companies. Prices can vary widely, so it pays to shop around. Just like buying a car, you can negotiate and haggle the price of the exterminator service. Keep in mind that the local exterminator cost might be different from the national average exterminator prices.

Be Prepared to Negotiate

Once you have a few quotes, you can try to negotiate a better price. Remember, you are the customer and you have the power to choose the best deal. Plus, you can always spice up the negotiation by adding a little bit of humor. For example, you can say "I know you're the exterminator, but I think I have the upper hand here because I know the best pizza place in town and I'm willing to give you their number if you lower the price."

And What About DIY Solutions?

DIY solutions can be a great option if you're on a budget or if you're dealing with a small infestation. Common methods include using traps, repellents, and bait stations. But keep in mind that DIY solutions do have their downsides - for example, if you're not careful, you might end up trapping a critter in your walls, and then you're stuck with a whole new problem (and an even worse smell).

Wrap Up!

Get ready to say good riddance to those pesky critters in your home!

DIY solutions are plentiful, and if you know what you're doing, even hiring a pro exterminator can be much cheaper than you'd expect - trust us, it's worth doing it right.

The key?

Knowing your enemy and making sure they don't come back for seconds. So go ahead - send them packing and save your wallet while you're at it!