Detroit Joins List of Most Rat-Infested Cities, Terminix Report Finds
New York and Los Angeles remain at the top of the annual ranking, with Philadelphia moving to third place.
Detroit has entered the top 10 most rodent-infested cities in the United States, according to an annual report from the pest control company Terminix. The city's debut on the list marks a new entry from the Midwest.
The ranking, based on service data from over 300 Terminix branches nationwide in 2025, highlights cities where residents most frequently sought rodent control services. New York and Los Angeles retained their positions as the top two most infested cities. Philadelphia climbed one spot to secure the third position.
Other cities that appeared on the top 10 list include returning cities such as Houston, Chicago, Washington D.C., Boston, and Dallas. Detroit moved from the 11th position to crack the top 10 this year.
Concerns about rodent infestations in Detroit have been previously noted. In a 2023 memorandum, then-city council president Mary Sheffield reported that residents raised rodent issues during community meetings, with many citing demolition properties as havens for rats. The office of Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield was contacted for comment.
Following Detroit, the list rounds out the top 15 with Hartford, Atlanta, Baltimore, Tampa, and Sacramento.
Terminix identified three common factors contributing to rodent infestations in these urban areas: large populations, abundant food sources, and ample hiding places. The company stated that these conditions provide rodents with the necessary resources to survive and reproduce. Significant food waste from large populations, coupled with accessible food sources in dumpsters, alleys, and parks, fuels these infestations. Additionally, older buildings, subway systems, and sewer networks offer further opportunities for rodents to travel, hide, and nest.
Terminix also provided recommendations for residents to mitigate the risk of rodent infestations. These include sealing cracks and openings in homes, storing food in airtight containers, and maintaining clean living spaces free from crumbs and food residue. The company emphasized that implementing these measures can significantly reduce the likelihood of infestations, particularly in cities with a high prevalence of rodent activity.