Cockroaches are essential for the ecosystem but can be a major nuisance in urban areas. A recent study by Pest Gnome, a pest extermination service, ranked the most roach-infested cities in the United States.
Top Infested Cities
Pest Gnome used data from the Census Bureau, the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to identify cities with the highest roach populations. Houston tops the list, with 37% of homes reporting roach activity in the past year. The city’s heat and humidity create an ideal environment for these pests.
San Antonio is next, with 28% of homes affected. Other cities in the top five are Tampa, Phoenix, and Las Vegas.
Philadelphia’s Rank
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, also made the list, highlighting a significant roach problem in the city. Residents are advised to take steps to reduce infestations.
Complete List of Most Roach-Infested Cities:
- Houston, TX
- San Antonio, TX
- Tampa, FL
- Phoenix, AZ
- Las Vegas, NV
- Miami, FL
- Atlanta, GA
- Birmingham, AL
- Dallas, TX
- Oklahoma City, OK
- New York, NY
- Richmond, VA
- Los Angeles, CA
- Washington, D.C.
- Philadelphia, PA
- Baltimore, MD
- Riverside, CA
- Chicago, IL
- Minneapolis, MN
- San Jose, CA
- Boston, MA
- Detroit, MI
- San Francisco, CA
- Rochester, NY
- Seattle, WA
- Health Risks
Cockroaches pose health risks by transferring disease pathogens, including bacteria that cause food poisoning, by contaminating food and surfaces.
Prevention Tips
To prevent roach infestations, Pest Gnome recommends:
- Sealing points of entry
- Cleaning up crumbs
- Fixing leaky pipes
- Using Raid and roach motels
- Calling an exterminator if necessary
By following these steps, residents can help keep their homes roach-free.