PMPs share market data on pest pressure, consumer response

A warmer-than-average winter across much of the United States is expected to drive one of the busiest pest seasons in recent years, according to a new national forecast from Aptive Pest Control. Notably, the forecast shows no projected declines in any market, signaling a widespread seasonal surge across the country.

Aptive Pest Control’s 2026 Spring Pest Intelligence Report draws on the company’s Pest Activity Index, which analyzes millions of data points including service records, pest migration patterns and weather trends. The data indicates pest activity will rise across all five major household pest categories — ants, spiders, rodents, cockroaches and wasps — particularly in regions that experienced milder winter conditions.

“Warmer winters allow more pests to survive and reproduce, which can lead to a noticeable jump in activity once spring arrives,” said Aptive entomologist Isaac Rockwell in a news release. “With milder temperatures, pest populations remain more active, meaning homeowners may start seeing increased activity earlier and in greater numbers.”

Expert insight: Why early prevention matters

Rockwell notes that waiting until pests are visible indoors is one of the most common mistakes.

“By the time you notice a pest inside, there’s often already a larger population nearby,” he said. “Winter and early spring are the most important windows for preventative action.”

Simple steps such as sealing entry points, clearing yard debris and eliminating standing water can significantly reduce pest risk. Early, proactive pest control treatments may also help prevent infestations later in the season.

Where homeowners are falling short

The survey also highlights key gaps in preparedness. More than half (56%) of homeowners planning to garden are unaware that mulch can attract pests indoors without a proper buffer zone, and 27% say they do not consider bed bug prevention when traveling.

Key market signals and regional hotspots

• Tampa, Florida is the only market ranking in the top 10 across all five major pest categories and leads the nation in rodent activity
• Allentown, Pennsylvania ranks No. 1 nationally for both ants and spiders
• Texas dominates wasp hotspots
• California accounts for all of the top six cockroach hotspots

Additional regional trends show elevated rodent activity in the Pacific Northwest, along with widespread increases tied to environmental conditions, urban density and seasonal pest behavior.

Homeowner trends point to increased demand for preventative services

Homeowners are prioritizing protection against mosquitoes (61%), fire ants (52%) and stinging insects (49%).

Separate industry research from Modern Pest Services suggests homeowners are already shifting toward prevention. The survey found that 60% of homeowners plan to take a preventative approach, with 36% intending to hire a professional.

Among planned actions:

• 49% will seal cracks and gaps
• 44% are turning to natural solutions such as neem oil
• 43% plan to use pesticide sprays

Homeowners are prioritizing mosquitoes (61%), fire ants (52%) and stinging insects (49%), aligning with seasonal pest pressures in many regions.

Gaps in consumer awareness create service opportunities

Despite increased awareness, gaps remain that PMPs can address through education and service offerings. More than half (56%) of homeowners planning to garden are unaware that mulch can create pest harborage near structures without proper buffer zones. Additionally, 27% report they do not consider bed bug prevention when traveling.

These gaps present opportunities for PMPs to expand consultative services, particularly around exclusion, habitat modification and seasonal risk education.