Already a customer? Login to our customer portal

Back to resources

How Much Does Pest Control Cost in San Diego, CA?

Posted on: April 13, 2023 in Pest Control

Living in San Diego is amazing, but pests can quickly turn that excitement into frustration. No one wants to deal with bed bugs, cockroaches, or termites. Lucky for you, we’ve got a comprehensive guide that can help any San Diego homeowner. 

This guide covers all you need to know about pest control services, including common pests and effective solutions to keep your home pest-free. We’ll also provide average pest control costs to give you an idea of what to expect.

Looking for a pest control service? We offer pest control all around San Diego – from Downtown to Encinitas to Santee and more. Contact us and mention this article to get your 1st service for just $99.

Key Takeaways

  • Exterminator costs in San Diego, CA, vary depending on the frequency of service, with monthly and bimonthly services being more cost-effective than one-time services.
  • The size of the home or property can also impact the extermination cost, with larger properties generally costing more to treat than smaller ones.
  • The severity and location of the infestation can also affect the cost of extermination, with more severe infestations and those located in harder-to-reach areas costing more to treat.
  • When looking for an exterminator, it’s essential to read reviews, get quotes, and compare prices to find the right professional.
  • Pest control is generally safe when done by a professional, and the frequency of service needed depends on the type of pest and severity of the infestation.

How Much Does an Exterminator Cost in San Diego, CA? 

If you’re a homeowner dealing with a pest infestation, you’re probably wondering how much it will cost to eliminate those unwelcome guests. The answer can depend on various factors such as the type of pest and the severity of the infestation. 

Frequency of Service

Frequency of service refers to how often pest control services are required to keep a property free from pests. Different types of pests and the severity of an infestation can affect how often a homeowner may need to schedule services.

Service FrequencyCost Range
One-Time Service$150 – $300
Monthly Service$60 – $90
Bimonthly Service$70 – $100
Quarterly Service$100 – $300
Annual Service$300 – $700

Remember that these are just estimates, and the actual cost may vary depending on the factors mentioned earlier. 

In general, one-time services are more expensive than ongoing services but may be necessary for severe infestations. Monthly and bimonthly services are ideal for maintaining a pest-free home. In contrast, quarterly and annual services are more suited for preventative measures.

Pest Type

Different pests require different treatments, so pest control costs can vary widely depending on the type of pest you’re dealing with. Here’s a table of the average pest control cost for some of the most common pests in San Diego, CA:

Pest TypeAvg. Cost (Low-High)
Snakes$60 – $150
Spiders$70 – $300
Roaches$100 – $400
Rodents$150 – $300
Moths$150 – $400
Silverfish$150 – $500
Ticks$150 – $550
Fleas$200 – $600
Wasps$250 – $650
Mosquitos$250 – $750
Ants$250 – $1,000
Bed Bugs$500 – $1,500
Termites$500 – $3,000 (plus $75 – $150 for inspection fee)

Keep in mind that pest control for termites is usually more expensive due to the significant damage they can cause and the required inspection fee. It’s essential to note that various factors can impact the overall cost, leading to a wide range of pricing options.

Treatment Type

Regarding pest control treatments, several options are available. Here’s a breakdown of the average cost of some of the most common treatment types in San Diego, CA:

  • Physical (i.e., traps) – Cost Range: $250 – $500: Physical pest control methods utilize traps or barriers to prevent pests from entering or infesting your home. These methods can be effective for specific pests, such as rodents, but may not work well for others.
  • Chemical (sprays) – Cost Range: $150 – $500: Chemical pest control treatments involve using pesticides and other chemical solutions to kill or repel pests. These treatments can be effective for many pests but may not be ideal for use in homes with small children or pets.
  • Fumigation – Cost Range: $1,500 – $5,000: Fumigation is a more intensive pest control treatment that involves sealing off a home or building and using powerful chemical gas to kill pests. This treatment is typically used for severe infestations or pests that are difficult to eliminate with other methods. It’s important to note that fumigation can be expensive and may require you to vacate your home for some time.

Size of the Home or Property

The size of your home or property can also affect the cost of pest management. Larger homes or properties will typically require more time and resources to treat, which can increase the cost. Here’s the average cost of pest control services based on the size of the home or property in San Diego, CA:

  • Small home or apartment (under 1,000 sq. ft.) — Cost Range: $150 – $300
  • Medium-sized home (1,000 – 2,000 sq. ft.) — Cost Range: $350 – $700 
  • Large home (2,000 – 3,000 sq. ft.) — Cost Range: $800 – $1,300 
  • Extra-large home (over 3,000 sq. ft.) — Cost Range: $1,400 – $2,500

The actual price of pest control services for your home or property may vary depending on several factors, including the type of pest being treated and the severity of the infestation. Some pest control companies may also charge based on the number of rooms or levels in your home rather than the total square footage. 

Infestation Severity

The severity of a pest infestation can greatly impact the cost of pest control services. A minor infestation may only require a one-time treatment. In contrast, a more severe infestation may require multiple treatments and ongoing monitoring. These are the average cost of pest control services in San Diego, CA, based on the severity of the infestation:

  • Minor infestation — Cost Range: $100 – $300 
  • Moderate infestation — Cost Range: $300 – $600 
  • Severe infestation — Cost Range: $600 – $1,000+

It’s crucial to address pest problems as soon as they are discovered, as waiting can lead to a more severe infestation and, ultimately, a higher cost for treatment. 

Additionally, seasons and weather can play a role in the severity of infestations, particularly in Southern California, where warm weather year-round can lead to increased breeding and activity of pests. 

For example, springtime in Southern California can increase ant and termite activity. At the same time, summer can see an increase in mosquito and spider populations. Be sure to work with a knowledgeable pest control provider who can help you identify and address pest problems before they become severe.

Where the Infestation Is Located

Different pest infestations can occur in various parts of a property, and the cost of pest control services can vary depending on where the infestation is located:

  • Pests in Cars (Rats): $100 – $300
  • Pests in Cabinets/Other Easier-to-Reach Places (Mice): $150 – $350
  • Pests in Yard (Wasps, Bees, etc.): $250 – $500
  • Pests in Walls (Roaches, Termites): $250 – $700

Finding the Right Exterminator

Choosing the right pest control company ensures effective treatment and long-term results. Here are some tips on finding the right exterminator:

  • Read Reviews: Look for reviews and ratings of local pest control companies on reliable websites such as Yelp, Google, or the Better Business Bureau. Check for comments on the quality of service, effectiveness of treatment, and customer satisfaction.
  • Get Quotes: Contact multiple pest control companies and request a quote. Ask about the type of treatment they offer, the products they use, and the cost of their services.
  • Compare Prices: After receiving quotes from different companies, compare the prices and services provided. Keep in mind that while choosing the cheapest option is tempting, the quality of service and effectiveness of treatment should be your top priority.

Questions Others Are Asking

As homeowners consider pest control options, they may have several questions that need answers before deciding. Here are answers to commonly asked questions:

Is pest control safe? 

Pest control methods used by professionals are safe and regulated by state and federal agencies. Most companies use non-toxic, low-impact, secure methods for the safety of humans and pets. However, it is essential to follow any instructions provided by the pest control technician to ensure the safety of everyone involved.

Is an exterminator worth the money? 

Hiring an exterminator can be a smart investment for homeowners dealing with a pest infestation. While DIY methods may seem cheaper, they can often be less effective and lead to further problems. Having the expertise and equipment to remove pests and prevent their recurrence, pest control experts can save homeowners time, money, and long-term annoyance.

How often do you need pest control? 

Several factors determine the frequency of pest control services such as the type and severity of the infestation, property size, and climate. Most homeowners will generally benefit from quarterly or bi-monthly pest control services to prevent pests from returning. However, some situations may require more frequent or less frequent visits. Consulting a professional is recommended to determine the best schedule for your pest control needs.

Hear from some of our clients

We want you to feel confident in your pest service so please take a look at what some of our satisfied customers are saying!