2026 State of the Industry: PMPs share an optimistic outlook

Despite facing challenges from unpredictable weather and rising costs, pest management professionals (PMPs) are entering 2026 with a decidedly positive outlook. According to Pest Management Professional’s 2026 State of the Industry survey, PMPs rate their optimism for the industry at an impressive 4.32 out of 5 stars, with 91 percent expressing optimism—a six-point increase from the previous year. This confidence reflects an industry that is prepared to adapt, innovate, and thrive.

A look at the modern PMP

Our 2026 survey, answered primarily by company owners and presidents, provides a clear snapshot of the businesses shaping the industry. The data reveals that a significant portion of the industry consists of small- to mid-sized operations poised for growth.

Number of employees:

• 1 to 10 employees: 52%
• 11 to 25 employees: 22%
• 26 to 100 employees: 16%
• More than 100 employees: 10%

Fleet size:

• 1 to 10 vehicles: 58%
• 11 to 25 vehicles: 24%
• 26 to 100 vehicles: 14%
• More than 100 vehicles: 4%

Expert insight: Planning breeds confidence

PMPs report that careful planning and a readiness to pivot are essential business strategies. While factors like weather and inflation are uncontrollable, industry leaders remain confident in the market’s stability.

“In southwest Oklahoma and northern Texas, we have had an unusually wet summer, which will cause an explosion of the common pest populations next season,” says Chad Highley, owner and CEO of Environmental Pest Control in Lawton, Okla. “Due to the historic trends of being a ‘recession-proof’ industry, I do not foresee much impact from economic shift, if any at all.”

This sentiment is echoed by others who see opportunity in every challenge. “Unpredictable weather—from record rainfall in some regions to heatwaves elsewhere—will drive higher pest activity,” notes Jade Curtis, a supervisor at Guaranteed Bug Control in Longview, Texas. “That means more service calls, particularly for termites, mosquitoes and rodents, which directly benefits companies ready to respond quickly and effectively.”

Others stress the importance of communicating the value of professional services. “Our industry is resilient, necessary and innovative,” says Andy Shrawder, owner of Hershey Termite and Pest Control in Hershey, Pa. “As an industry, we need to work together to continue to highlight the benefits of professional pest management.”

The consensus is clear: the pest control industry is on solid ground. PMPs who stay attuned to market demands and adapt to change are well-positioned for another year of success. By investing in training, planning for contingencies, and evolving their strategies, companies can continue to turn challenges into opportunities for growth.

Explore the full 2026 State of the Industry Report

This article is the central hub for our comprehensive look at the year ahead. Dive deeper into the data and expert analysis in our complete 6-part series:

1. Retention strategies
PMP Data: Strategies for Employee and Customer Retention in 2026
This article provides actionable advice on two of the biggest pain points for PMP owners: your team and your clients.

2. Top pest trends
2026 Top Pests: Which Pests Will Generate the Most Revenue?
This data-rich article is a high-value SEO asset that will rank for “top pest” keywords.

3. Revenue and profit
2026 Revenue & Profit Projections for the Pest Control Industry
Pure business data for our PMP Decision-Maker audience. This content speaks directly to their “Growth” motivation.

4. Service offerings
2026 Service Offering Trends: What Are PMPs Adding to Their Lineup?
This article provides a clear roadmap for PMP owners looking to expand their service offerings and increase revenue per customer.

5. Purchasing and budgets
2026 PMP Purchasing Plans & Budget Projections
A perfect “Bottom Line” article that gives owners peer data to benchmark their own purchasing plans.

6. Obstacles and opportunities
2026 Pest Industry Obstacles & Opportunities
This article clearly outlines the strategic landscape, from rising costs to new growth opportunities, for 2026. With expert insights and data-driven analysis, PMP owners can stay ahead of the curve and navigate potential challenges while maximizing growth.