Los Angeles Now Ranked the 2nd Rattiest City in the U.S. — Here’s What It Means for You

As the owner of losangelestermite a pest control company deeply rooted in serving the people of Los Angeles, I’m both alarmed and not surprised by the latest report: L.A. is officially the second rattiest city in America, according to data reported by TimeOut and compiled by Orkin.

While this ranking may shock some, those of us on the front lines of pest control know the signs have been growing for years. Rodent populations in Los Angeles are not only larger — they’re more aggressive, more resilient, and more dangerous than ever before.

So what does this mean for L.A. residents, property owners, and businesses? And more importantly, what can you do about it?

Let’s break it down.

Why Is Los Angeles Overrun with Rats?

There are several reasons why L.A. now holds the #2 spot on the list of America’s rattiest cities:

• Year-Round Warm Weather: Los Angeles provides the ideal climate for rodents to breed constantly, unlike colder regions where winter slows them down.

• Population Density: With millions of people, tightly packed neighborhoods, and high-rise apartments, rodents have ample shelter and food access.

• Improper Waste Management: Overflowing dumpsters, street trash, and backyard compost create a buffet for rats.

• Aging Infrastructure: Cracks in foundations, deteriorating pipes, and old roofs offer countless entry points.

• Construction & Urban Development: As the city grows, rats are displaced — and they’re moving into homes, schools, and businesses.

The Hidden Dangers of a Rodent Infestation

Rats and mice are more than just a creepy nuisance — they are a real threat to health and property:

• Health Hazards: Rodents spread over 35 diseases including leptospirosis, hantavirus, and salmonella — just through their droppings, urine, and saliva.

• Structural Damage: They gnaw on everything — wires, insulation, drywall, wood — leading to fire risks and expensive repairs.

• Food Contamination: Rats can get into food packaging and contaminate entire kitchen spaces.

How LosAngelesTermite.com Is Responding to L.A.’s Rodent Crisis

At losangelestermite we’ve expanded our services beyond termite control to meet the growing need for professional rodent control in the Greater Los Angeles area. We provide:

Free, No-Obligation Rodent Inspections

Our licensed team conducts a thorough evaluation of your home or business to:

• Identify rodent activity

• Locate nests, droppings, and chew marks

• Determine entry points

No pressure. Just honest, expert recommendations.

Customized Rodent Control & Removal

Our solutions are tailored to your property and severity of the infestation, including:

• Traps and bait systems

• Tamper-proof control stations

• Safe removal methods for families and pets

Rodent Exclusion and Entry Point Sealing

The only long-term solution to rodent infestations is exclusion — sealing off every gap, hole, and crack where rodents might enter.

We seal:

• Utility line gaps

• Crawl space vents

• Roof edges and eaves

• Wall cracks and pipe openings

Sanitization & Decontamination

Rats leave behind bacteria, viruses, and allergens. We:

• Remove droppings and nesting materials

• Sanitize and deodorize the affected areas

• Replace damaged insulation

Ongoing Rodent Prevention Plans

We don’t just stop the problem — we prevent it from coming back. Choose from monthly or seasonal pest protection plans that include:

• Regular inspections

• Trap and bait maintenance

• Property updates and rodent-proofing

Don't Wait Until It’s Too Late

If you’ve seen:

• Rodent droppings

• Chewed wires or boxes

• Scratching in the walls or ceiling

• Unusual odors

…you could already be dealing with an infestation.

Los Angeles may be the second most rat-infested city in America, but that doesn’t mean your property has to be part of the problem.