Living in New York City has its unique challenges—and pest control is definitely one of them. Whether you’re in a Brooklyn brownstone, a Manhattan high-rise, or a Queens walk-up, pests can find their way in. The dense population, aging infrastructure, and abundance of food sources make the city a perfect environment for all kinds of unwelcome critters.
Here are the top five most common pests in New York City, along with practical tips for preventing them in your home or apartment.
1. Rats
Rats are a notorious part of life in New York City. They’re smart, adaptable, and more than capable of surviving in almost any environment—whether it’s a subway tunnel, alleyway, or basement.
Why they’re a problem:
Rats are more than just a nuisance. They carry diseases, contaminate food, and can even cause fires by chewing through electrical wiring. Once they establish a nest, they reproduce quickly, turning a small problem into a serious infestation.
How to prevent them:
- Seal any holes or cracks in walls, foundations, or around pipes. Even a hole the size of a quarter can be an entry point.
- Use metal trash cans with tight-fitting lids, and never leave garbage bags on the street overnight.
- Eliminate clutter and clean up food waste quickly.
- Fix leaky pipes and remove standing water sources.
2. Cockroaches
Cockroaches are incredibly common in city apartments, especially in older buildings. The German cockroach is the most prevalent species in NYC homes and is highly resilient.
Why they’re a problem:
Cockroaches are known to spread bacteria and trigger asthma and allergy symptoms. They are also very difficult to eliminate without professional help, due to their breeding speed and hiding abilities.
How to prevent them:
- Keep kitchens and bathrooms clean and dry.
- Wipe down countertops and sweep floors regularly to avoid crumbs and spills.
- Store all food in sealed containers.
- Take out the trash frequently and clean bins regularly.
- Seal cracks and crevices in cabinets, walls, and around appliances.
3. Bed Bugs
Bed bugs have been a persistent issue in NYC for decades. These tiny insects are experts at hiding and are usually transported into homes via luggage, used furniture, or clothing.
Why they’re a problem:
Bed bugs feed on human blood while you sleep, causing itchy welts and sleepless nights. They’re very hard to eliminate without professional treatment and can spread rapidly throughout an apartment or building.
How to prevent them:
- Inspect hotel beds and furniture when traveling.
- Avoid bringing secondhand furniture into your home unless it has been thoroughly inspected.
- After traveling, wash and dry clothes on high heat.
- Regularly check mattress seams, bed frames, and behind headboards for signs of bed bugs or dark spots.
4. Mice
Like rats, mice are common intruders, especially in the colder months when they seek warmth and food indoors. They’re small enough to enter through tiny gaps, making prevention tricky without a careful inspection.
Why they’re a problem:
Mice can chew through food packaging, wires, insulation, and more. They also carry bacteria and viruses, putting your health at risk.
How to prevent them:
- Use steel wool or metal mesh to seal gaps around pipes, vents, and baseboards.
- Keep food in sealed containers and clean up crumbs quickly.
- Don’t leave pet food out overnight.
- Store firewood and cardboard away from walls and off the ground.
5. Ants
Though ants may not be as scary as rats or bed bugs, they are a common nuisance in NYC homes—particularly in warmer months. Pavement ants are especially widespread in urban areas.
Why they’re a problem:
Ants can contaminate food and become a recurring issue if a colony is established in your walls or floors.
How to prevent them:
- Clean up food and sugary spills right away.
- Store food and pet food in airtight containers.
- Seal gaps around windows, doors, and baseboards.
- Avoid crushing ants indoors, as some species release pheromones that attract more ants.
Prevention Starts with Awareness
Even the cleanest apartment or home isn’t immune to pests. In New York City, the combination of old buildings, close living quarters, and heavy foot traffic creates ideal conditions for infestations. Being proactive about prevention—through cleanliness, sealing entry points, and inspecting regularly—can go a long way in keeping your living space pest-free.
If you suspect an infestation, it’s best to act quickly. The longer pests go untreated, the harder they are to eliminate. Whether you’re dealing with rodents, insects, or something in between, consistent prevention and timely response are key to maintaining a healthy, comfortable home in the city. We recommend pest control in new york.
