The 4 Most Common Pests in New York City—and How to Kick Them Out for Good

April 09, 2025 Tavin Pest Library

Living in the city has its perks—endless food options, diversity, iconic spots—but it also comes with a unique set of close-quarters challenges. One of the most persistent? Pests.

From Brooklyn to Manhattan, NYC homes and businesses are prime targets for unwanted critters. In addition to the more dangerous pests, New York City is also home to various nuisance pests that, while not harmful, can be quite bothersome. Rodents are just the beginning of the larger issue. At Broadway Pest Control, we’ve seen it all. Because of this, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of the four most common pests we see in New York homes and how to get rid of them.

1. Rats

While rats in the city aren’t surprising, it doesn’t make them any less of a problem. New York’s complex network of sewers and subways creates the ideal environment for rodents.

While seeing a rat or a mouse is a telltale sign of a pest infestation, other signs can clue you in:

  • Rodent droppings.
  • Gnaw marks on food packaging or furniture.
  • Scratching noises in walls or ceilings.

The best way to get rid of rodents is to reach out to a professional pest control company like Broadway Pest Services for effective rodent control, but there are other steps you should take, too:

  • Seal holes and cracks in walls and foundations.
  • Store trash in tightly sealed bins.
  • Keep food in airtight containers.

Dealing with rodents is never fun. They’re among the most dangerous pests to keep around. Their ability to carry diseases and their tendency to chew through wires make them one of the worst infestations. If you’re struggling with a rodent infestation, don’t hesitate to call Broadway Pest Services.

2. Cockroaches

Few pests are as disgusting as cockroaches. These pests thrive in dark, moist places. They multiply quickly and can carry bacteria that trigger asthma and allergic reactions.

Cockroaches are resilient. If you’ve ever tried to kill one, you know that these bugs move fast and have the uncanny ability to vanish in dark corners. While they’re hard to get rid of, here are some tips:

  • Fix leaks and reduce moisture.
  • Keep food sealed and counters clean.
  • Eliminate garbage quickly and keep trash bins shut.
  • Schedule regular pest control services with Broadway Pest Services for lasting protection.

Don’t squash your way through this infestation, there’s a better way! With Broadway Pest Services’ cockroach control, your pest problem can disappear.

3. Bed Bugs

Bed bugs are only after two things: a warm place to hide and a consistent source of food/human blood. Unfortunately, your home might just be the perfect fit for these tiny parasites. Here’s how to spot a bed bug infestation:

  • Itchy, red bites in a line or cluster.
  • Blood stains on sheets.
  • Dark specks (bed bug feces) on mattresses or furniture.

These pests are gross, and due to their ability to ruin a good night’s sleep, they’re a bug you want to get rid of as soon as possible. Here’s how:

  • Wash bedding on high heat.
  • Vacuum and steam clean furniture.
  • Reach out to Broadway Pest Services for effective bed bug removal.

Don’t let these bugs take over your home. Eliminate them quickly and completely with Broadway Pest Control.

4. Ants

While ants are among the tiniest pests, they can be a surprisingly big nuisance. In the city, we often see pavement ants, odorous house ants, and sometimes carpenter ants. Ants are typically found in kitchens and bathrooms.

If you’re dealing with ants and wondering how to stop them, here are some tips:

  • Wipe down counters and floors regularly.
  • Find and address outdoor nests.
  • Let the professionals at Broadway Ant Control deal with persistent colonies.

Pest Infestations and Damage

Pests can wreak havoc on homes and businesses in New York City. Rodents, such as rats and mice, are notorious for gnawing on wall supports and creating fire hazards by chewing on electrical wiring. Cockroaches can contaminate food and surfaces with harmful bacteria, posing health risks. Bed bugs can cause significant discomfort and stress, with their bites often leading to itchy, red allergic reactions. Ants are another menace, capable of causing structural damage by burrowing into wood. Addressing these issues promptly is crucial to maintaining a safe and healthy environment.

Why DIY Isn’t Always Enough: The Need for Professional Pest Control

In a city like New York, pests don’t just go away on their own. Because buildings are so close together, infestations can spread fast, and over-the-counter sprays or traps rarely solve the root problem.

The pest control industry faces unique challenges in urban environments like New York City, where infestations can spread rapidly. If you’re dealing with pests in NYC, you don’t have to handle it alone. Whether you’ve seen one mouse or an entire roach colony, our licensed technicians are experienced and here to help.

Call us when you notice:

  • Repeat sightings of any pests.
  • Droppings, gnaw marks, or strange odors.
  • Bites or signs of bed bugs.
  • Neighbors are dealing with the same issues.

Broadway Pest Control is proud to serve all five boroughs with expert service, same-day availability, and custom treatment plans designed for NYC living.

Professional Pest Management in NYC

In a bustling city like New York, professional pest management is essential for keeping infestations at bay. Our exterminators at Broadway Pest Services are adept at identifying the root causes of pest problems and providing effective solutions to prevent future infestations. Our proactive pest management programs are designed to monitor and protect homes and businesses from the persistent threat of pests.

With a team of experienced exterminators, Broadway Pest Control can help you stay ahead of pest problems, ensuring your property remains safe and pest-free. Whether you’re dealing with rodents, bed bugs, or other pests, professional pest control services are your best bet for long-term protection! Contact us today to schedule or learn more about our services.