Yelp Infestation Index Reveals Top Ten Pest Problems Peaking in US Summer 2024

Summer brings not only warmth but also a surge in pests. According to an analytical infestation index by Yelp, the demand for pest control services has dramatically increased by 165%, with a significant jump in searches for pest-proofing measures in 2024 compared to the previous year. Various pests, including Joro spiders, cicadas, and mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus, pose threats ranging from food contamination to property damage. Cockroach control topped the list with a surge of 323% compared to 2023. The insight received from the index reflects the extent of pest infestation issues faced by various states with Washington DC topping the list in three of them.

Top Ten Pest Issues Expected in the US for 2024

To showcase current trends in pest control, Yelp launched the Infestation Index, which analyzes top search trends for pest control services nationwide and highlights the states most impacted by these issues. Leading the list, cockroach extermination searches soared by 323% in June 2024 over the previous year. Spider extermination, driven by the Joro spider scare, ranked second with a 236% increase in searches nationally.

1. Cockroach Extermination

Cockroaches always top the search when it concerns pest control. Searches for cockroach control spiked by 323% in 2024, indicating a major concern across the country with Washington DC topping the list. According to data, the five states with the most cockroach issues turned out to be, Washington DC, Illinois, Kansas, and New York.

Here are five effective ways to get rid of cockroaches:

• Keep Your Space Clean: Regularly clean your kitchen, bathrooms, and other areas to remove food crumbs and residues that attract cockroaches.
• Bait Stations: Use bait stations that contain a slow-acting insecticide. The cockroaches will carry the bait back to their hiding places, poisoning others in the process.
• Boric Acid: Sprinkle boric acid along areas where cockroaches are frequently seen. The powder is toxic to them when ingested.
• Seal Entry Points: Close off cracks, crevices, and other entry points around your home to prevent cockroaches from entering.
• Professional Extermination: If the infestation is severe, consider hiring a professional pest control service to apply more comprehensive treatments.

2. Joro Spider Invasion

With a 236% increase in searches, Joro spiders are a growing nuisance. According to a 2023 study at Clemson University Joro spiders are spreading rapidly beyond the South Carolina area, and could inhabit most of the eastern U.S.

Here are five ways to manage Joro spider populations:

• Manual Removal: Gently remove spiders and webs using a stick or broom and relocate them to a less problematic area.
• Natural Predators: Encourage the presence of natural predators like birds or wasps which can help control their numbers.
• Essential Oils: Use sprays made from essential oils like peppermint or eucalyptus, which can deter spiders from entering areas.
• Seal Entrances: Ensure windows, doors, and cracks are sealed to prevent spiders from entering the home.
• Regular Cleaning: Keep outdoor areas clean and free of debris where spiders may anchor their webs.

3. Wasps

Wasp infestations in the U.S. pose significant challenges, particularly during warmer months when wasp activity peaks. These pests are not only a nuisance but can also pose serious health risks due to their painful stings, which can trigger allergic reactions in some individuals. Effective management involves sealing entry points to homes, maintaining cleanliness in outdoor areas to avoid attracting wasps, and using traps or professional extermination services to deal with established nests, ensuring safety and reducing the likelihood of aggressive encounters.

Wasps’ issues spiked by 147% in 2024 with Washington DC topping the list followed by Washington DC, Colorado, Utah, Nevada, and Arizona.

4. Mosquito Treatment

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Studies have shown how warmer temperatures brought about by climate change accelerate mosquito development, biting rates, mosquito incubation, and spread of disease. The states that topped the Yelp list for Mosquito extermination search were Washington DC, North Carolina, Virginia, Georgia, and Rhode Island.

Due to their potential to carry diseases like the West Nile Virus, mosquito control remains a critical issue. According to the CDC, almost 45 cases of the West Nile Virus have been reported in 2024. Among these, 24 were found to be neuroinvasive cases making the West Nile Virus a serious matter of concern. There is no cure for the West Nile Virus, and prevention is the safest way to avoid it. The CDC recommends wearing long pants and long sleeves in areas prone to mosquitoes and using repellents, however caution needs to be exercised when using strong repellents like DEET.

5. Rodent Control

Rodent issues in the U.S. significantly impact urban areas, where rats and mice thrive by exploiting food and shelter. These pests cause property damage, contaminate food, and spread diseases. Addressing the problem involves sealing off entry points, maintaining cleanliness, and using traps or professional pest control to manage infestations effectively.

According to the index, California and D.C. have seen high search volumes, reflecting a widespread rodent problem. Leading the nation in rodent problems is California followed by Wyoming, Washington D.C., New Mexico, and Wisconsin.

6. Termite Treatment

Termite infestations in the U.S. especially in warm states like Hawaii and Florida are a major concern, particularly with species like the Formosan termite, known for its aggressive wood consumption. These infestations often result in severe structural damage to homes and buildings, necessitating costly repairs. Effective management includes regular inspections, the use of termite barriers, and professional extermination services to mitigate and prevent damage, especially in states with warmer climates where termites are most prevalent. Leading in Termite issues is Hawaii, followed by Florida, California, Arizona, and Delaware

7. Bed Bug Elimination

Bed bug infestations in the U.S. have been on the rise, largely due to increased travel, the exchange of second-hand furniture, and urban housing density. These pests are notorious for their ability to hitch rides in luggage and clothing, making them common nuisances in hotels, homes, and public transport. Addressing these infestations often requires thorough cleaning, heat treatments, and professional pest control services to eliminate both bugs and eggs effectively. Topping the search for bed bug issues is again Washington D.C. followed by Illinois, Kansas, Nevada, and New York.

8. Ant Extermination

Ant infestations in the U.S. are widespread and problematic, particularly with species like carpenter ants, which can damage wooden structures, and fire ants, known for their painful stings. These pests are drawn to food and moisture, making kitchens and bathrooms common hotspots. Effective control includes sealing entry points, maintaining cleanliness to deter attraction, and using baits and professional extermination methods to manage existing populations and prevent future outbreaks. Ants continue to be in the top 5 of common household problems in the US in summer requiring pest control.

9. Flea Control

Flea infestations in the U.S. are a significant concern, particularly for pet owners. These tiny parasites thrive in warm environments and can quickly infest homes, biting humans and animals. Their rapid reproduction rate complicates eradication, often requiring comprehensive approaches including thorough cleaning of pet bedding, regular bathing of pets, use of topical or oral flea treatments, and professional pest control services to fully address the infestation and prevent future occurrences.

10. Tick Prevention

Ticks, which can carry Lyme disease, are a concern in wooded and grassy areas. These pests are prevalent in wooded and grassy areas, attaching to both humans and animals to feed. Managing tick populations involves maintaining clear yard spaces, using repellents when in tick-prone areas, and performing regular checks on pets and oneself after outdoor activities. Prompt removal and proper landscape management are key to reducing the risk of tick-borne illnesses.

Top Five Pest Control Tips

Eliminate Food and Water Sources: Keeping your kitchen clean and using sealed containers can prevent pest infestations.

• Seal Cracks and Gaps: Inspecting and sealing small openings around your home can keep pests out.
• Proper Trash Storage: Using tightly sealed trash cans and regular disposal helps deter pests like raccoons.
• Yard Maintenance: Keeping your outdoor space clean and trimmed reduces pest shelter.
• Check Basements and Attics: These areas are prone to pest invasions if not properly maintained.

With the rise in pest issues, effective pest control is more crucial than ever. We hope you found this article helpful in understanding pest control. For More information of Pest issues in the US, why not read:

How to Spot and Stop Rodent Activity in Your Home

Beware of Tick and Lyme Disease in the Midwest